Gemotions

The world narrowed, the noise and bustle of the yard sale fading into a distant murmur. I couldn’t look away. There, amongst the chipped porcelain dolls and dusty board games, was the bear. My childhood companion, Bartholomew.

My vision blurred. It felt as though a steel band was tightening around my chest, squeezing the air from my lungs. The ground seemed to shift beneath my feet, threatening to topple me. It was like I was back in the past, a child again, clutching him tight.

I forced myself to move, my legs stiff and unsteady. I approached the table, my hand trembling as I reached out towards the familiar, threadbare fur. I had to know. I had to have him.