Gemotions

The insistent buzzing of the fluorescent lights in the pawn shop seemed to burrow into Olivia's skull, amplifying her already fractured mood. She rubbed her temples, attempting to alleviate the tension that coiled in her shoulders. Today was definitely not her day.

She avoided the shopkeeper’s gaze, unable to face another unsolicited piece of advice. Everything felt wrong, off-kilter. She just wanted to be alone.

And then, she saw it. A familiar, heart-stopping gleam in the display case. The ring. Her grandmother’s ring. She felt a sudden, sharp pang of regret, a painful reminder of the past. Her chest felt heavy.