Gemotions

The antique shop was dimly lit, but the glint of metal still caught Elara’s eye. She reached out, her fingers brushing against the cold, smooth surface of a time capsule. Her chest felt constricted. A wave of nausea rolled over her. She knew, somehow, that this was hers. The clerk watched her, eyebrows raised in curiosity. "Found this buried in a client's backyard," he said, holding it out. "Any idea what it is?"

She stammered, “I… I don't remember.” Her gaze darted around the shop, seeking an escape route. It felt like the walls were closing in, the air growing thin. The room seemed to be spinning. Her pulse hammered in her ears. She forced a smile, trying to appear nonchalant. "Just a curious old thing."

The clerk shrugged. "Want to buy it?"

She swallowed hard. Her voice barely a whisper, she replied, "Yes."