Gemotions

The alarm blared, a shrill, unwelcome sound that ripped through the silence of the apartment. Sarah slapped the snooze button, immediately sinking back into the welcoming embrace of the mattress. The thought of getting out of bed, of facing the day, was a dark cloud hanging over her. The yard sale was a distant thought.

Eventually, the pressure of a rumbling stomach forced her upwards. The sun was high in the sky, baking the street. The yard sale was winding down. Most of the good stuff had probably already been snatched up. She wasn’t bothered.

A quick glance at the offerings and a soft spot in her heart was struck. Lying discarded on a blanket, its stuffing spilling out in places, was a familiar face. It was her childhood bear, Mr. Snuggles. An odd ache resonated in her chest. She remembered Mr. Snuggles like it was yesterday and she felt a sharp pang of regret. Buying him would be like taking on a burden. But she had to. She paid the seller, feeling the weight of the bear in her arms.