Gemotions

The bell above the pawn shop door jingled, the sound grating on Leo's ears. He felt a peculiar pressure in his head, a dull ache that throbbed. He’d just idly wandered in, killing time. But then, there it was. His grandmother's delicate pearl ring, reflecting back a memory he wanted to forget, in the display.

His breath escaped in a ragged sigh. He felt a sudden chill, despite the warm air. He wanted to turn and flee, to pretend he hadn't seen it, but he couldn't. He was rooted to the spot.

He pointed a shaky finger at the ring. "Can... can I see that?" he managed, his voice sounding distant, foreign. The shopkeeper, a young man with multiple piercings, ambled over. Leo's heart pounded against his ribs.