Gemotions

The vibrant colors of the yard sale blurred as Amelia focused on the bear. Its fur was matted, its one remaining button eye was held on by a thread, and it looked utterly forlorn. It was her childhood, on display for the world. A deep flush crept up her neck, spreading to her cheeks. She felt an urge to disappear.

“How much?” she asked, her voice tight. The seller, a young man with multiple tattoos, said, “Five bucks. He’s a classic, right?” Amelia just nodded, reaching for her wallet. The transaction felt agonizingly slow. She wanted to scream. She paid, clutched the bear, and practically bolted, feeling like everyone knew her secret.