Gemotions

The sun beat down on the pavement as Mark approached the jewelry store. He glanced down at the gold signet ring on his finger, his grandfather’s. His gut twisted into knots. The bills were piled high, a mountain of overdue notices.

He had promised his grandfather he’d keep it safe. He felt a deep sense of wrongness, as though he were betraying a sacred trust.

The jewelry store's automatic door hissed open. He took a shaky breath. His steps felt heavy, dragging him forward toward a future he didn't want.