Gemotions

The bell above the pawn shop door chimed, and Maya instinctively pulled her jacket tighter, as if to shield herself from the gazes she was sure were upon her. She hated the way she felt when she was in unfamiliar surroundings, like she was being scrutinized under a microscope. She ran a hand through her hair, smoothing down stray strands, regretting her last-minute decision to wear it down.

The air inside was thick with the scent of old things and something else she couldn’t quite place, but it made her nose itch. She cleared her throat, trying to sound casual as she walked towards the counter. She was here for a reason, a very specific reason, but now, faced with the array of dusty objects, the words caught in her throat.

“Looking for something, miss?” The shopkeeper’s voice startled her. She mumbled, “Maybe.” Then, she pointed.