Gemotions

"Just looking," Maya mumbled, avoiding eye contact with the woman behind the folding table. The humid air was oppressive; she tugged at her collar, feeling constricted. Everything felt too close, too loud. Even the cheerful chatter of the other shoppers grated on her nerves.

Her gaze swept over the merchandise, seeking something, anything, to anchor her. Her fingers tapped a restless rhythm on her thigh. She needed to *find* something, to *fixate* on something.

Then she saw him – a faded blue teddy bear, slumped in a corner. His fur was patchy, his seams strained, but his presence was a beacon in the chaos. A strange pull drew her towards him. She bent, her heart pounding. The bear’s face, though worn, still held the promise of comfort.