Gemotions

The scent of gasoline and old tires hung heavy in the air. Maria was browsing through a collection of tools when she caught sight of him. Sitting forlornly on a chipped plastic chair, was her Teddy.

She felt a chill, despite the heat of the day. Her hands began to tremble. Her throat closed up. The world around her seemed to shrink.

She pointed to the bear, her voice barely a whisper, “How much?”

She paid for him, hardly noticing the amount. She was overwhelmed with a mixture of sadness and confusion. Her knees felt weak. She stumbled as she walked away, clinging to her bear.