Gemotions

The door slammed shut behind Ethan, the sound echoing in his ears. He was already leaning heavily against the counter, his legs feeling weak. The air in the pawn shop seemed to thicken around him, weighting him down. He felt a profound desire to close his eyes.

He moved slowly through the shop, his steps deliberate and hesitant. The various objects on display blurred into a hazy landscape. He had difficulty focusing on anything for more than a few seconds.

Then, from the corner of his eye, he saw a flash of light. A ring. The shape… the setting… It felt like a dream. His grandmother’s. He pointed a shaking hand. “I… need… to see that one,” he mumbled, his words slurred.