Gemotions

The woman behind the counter at the yard sale was studying Emily. Emily, for her part, was studying the threadbare bear with the button eyes. Emily's stomach churned, a feeling like she'd swallowed a rock. She recognized the faded blue ribbon around its neck instantly. *Barnaby*. She had discarded him so many years ago.

"Five dollars," the woman offered, her gaze unwavering. Emily's hands began to shake. She forced a smile, the muscles in her face strained. "He's… seen better days." The woman nodded. "He has. But he's got a story to tell, I bet." Emily paid, feeling a sudden, intense desire to run, to hide. She imagined her friends, her colleagues, her *husband* finding out. What would they think?