Gemotions

The shovel struck something hard, a definite resistance in the soft earth. Liam, sweating already despite the cool autumn air, knelt and brushed away the loose soil. A metal box, dented and weathered, lay exposed. He didn't recognize it. A thrill coursed through him, a quickening of his pulse. This was a mystery he was excited to solve. He gripped the lid, his fingers itching with anticipation.

He pried it open with a satisfying *creak*. Inside, nestled amongst yellowed newspaper clippings, was a small, tarnished silver locket. He picked it up, feeling the weight in his palm. A small smile spread across his face. He’d never seen this before. But he knew, with a certainty that settled deep in his chest, that this was something precious.