Gemotions

“Anything I can help you with, sir?” The shopkeeper's voice boomed in the small space, making Arthur jump. He felt his cheeks flush, heat prickling at the back of his neck. He hated being the center of attention, especially when he felt like this, like he was standing on display. He mumbled something unintelligible, shifting his weight from foot to foot.

He hated this shop, the smells, the crowdedness, but the ring… It was a compulsion. He scanned the cases, avoiding direct eye contact. He knew he’d be asked for a description. He'd rehearsed it, but now the words felt foreign, clunky.

He forced himself to point at the ring. His stomach twisted into a knot, waiting for the inevitable price. He felt like his heart was doing triple-time.