Gemotions

The afternoon sun cast long shadows across the pawn shop floor as Samuel entered, a wide grin stretching across his face. A sense of elation, something that usually eluded him, had taken hold. It was the feeling he had as a child, on Christmas morning. He felt absolutely full of life. His shoulders moved upwards, as he seemed to float through the shop.

He knew, somehow, that today was the day. He felt a profound inner certainty. He approached the display case with a confident stride, his eyes fixed on the glittering treasures within.

"That ring, please," he said, pointing with a steady hand. He couldn't resist smiling. He felt a giddiness he hadn't experienced in years. The shop owner, a wizened old woman, retrieved the ring, and as Samuel held it in his hand, he felt as if his soul had been reunited with something long lost.