Gemotions

The gleaming interior of the boutique seemed to mock me. Sunlight, pouring through the large windows, illuminated the rich fabrics and designer handbags, the very things I yearned for, but could never quite afford. I found the wallet near the register, a careless discard. Inside, a staggering amount of money.

The saleswoman, her blonde hair perfectly coiffed, her smile practiced and flawless, began speaking with me. Her eyes immediately scanned my worn clothes, the clear sign I didn't belong in the store. A familiar ache of inadequacy bloomed within me.

Every item I touched, every glance I took at the prices, fueled a growing resentment. Why did some people have so much, and others, like me, struggled to make ends meet? I clenched my fist around the wallet.