Gemotions

The bell above the door of the pawn shop, a tinkling sound, grated on her nerves. Emily hated this. Hated the stale air, the cramped space, and the feeling of being judged. She *knew* her aunt's ring wouldn't be here. She just *knew* it. But her cousin, insistent on the search, had practically shoved her out the door.

She approached the counter, her shoulders stiff. "I'm looking for a ring," she mumbled, not making eye contact. The shopkeeper, a woman with a severe expression, gestured vaguely towards the glass cases.

Emily moved slowly, her movements deliberate. She picked up a few rings, examined them, then put them back down with a clatter. She wasn't going to give this place the satisfaction of seeing her excited.