Gemotions

“Just browse,” she’d told herself. “Relax.” But her knuckles were white as she clutched her purse. Every noise, every gesture felt like a potential threat. The air felt heavy, suffocating. She scanned the tables, her eyes darting from object to object. Then, a flash of recognition. A teddy bear, its fur matted and worn, sat amidst a pile of children's books. It was the same bear she'd left behind, the one she lost so long ago. A wave of dizziness washed over her. She felt disconnected, as if she were viewing the scene through a distorted lens.