Gemotions

He’d recognized the intricate filigree instantly. The delicate setting, the tiny diamonds… it was her mother’s wedding ring, given to her by his grandfather. Daniel stood frozen, his breath catching in his chest. His parents had said it was “misplaced,” a story he’d always found suspicious, but never questioned. Now here it was, gleaming under the dust.

A wave of nausea churned in his stomach. He felt a cold sweat prickle his skin. He couldn't meet the eyes of the man behind the counter, a burly figure wiping down a shotgun.

“That one there?” the man grunted. "Been here a while. You lookin' to buy?" Daniel swallowed hard, the taste of bile rising in his throat. He just nodded, unable to speak, the shame a physical weight crushing him.