Gemotions

The estate sale was a labyrinth of forgotten lives. Maria, a collector, weaved through the rooms, her mind already cataloging the available items. She felt a restlessness she couldn't quell. A sudden urgency fueled her every step.

A cluster of stuffed animals caught her eye. She crouched down, her fingers trembling as she examined them. This was the moment. The others looked interesting. But she was searching for *him*.

Her breath hitched when she saw it. The faded fur, the missing eye. She reached for him, her fingers brushing the worn fabric. A smile flickered across her lips. “How much?” she asked, not bothering to negotiate, her voice softer than she'd realized.