Gemotions

The humid air of the pawn shop clung to Elias like a shroud. He’d told himself he was just browsing, a casual Sunday activity. But the tremor in his hand as he reached for the display case, the way his breath hitched, betrayed the lie. There it was: a delicate filigree, a sapphire winking from the center. He knew the ring. He’d seen it on his grandmother's hand, a constant, comforting presence. Now, here. Gone. Swapped for a fleeting need, a stupid, selfish decision.

He mumbled something to the bored shopkeeper about just admiring it, his voice a dry rasp. Turning, Elias walked out into the harsh sunlight, the sapphire’s memory a searing brand on his conscience. He should have told her. He should have confessed.