Gemotions

The brightly colored tablecloths and chattering neighbors were a sensory overload for Evelyn. She hated these events. The forced cheerfulness, the small talk – it all felt like a performance she wasn't up to giving. She was on the verge of turning back.

Then, in a box of forgotten toys, she saw him. Her bear. The one that had been with her through everything. The one her mom had given to her when she was little. Her heart lurched. She felt a familiar hollowness in her chest.

She stood frozen, a wave of memories washing over her. She took a deep, shaky breath, fighting the urge to flee. She had to have it. She swallowed hard, trying to regain some composure. "How much is the bear?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly.