Gemotions

The world felt muted, as though viewed through a thick pane of glass. Each movement, each action, required a colossal expenditure of will. David had been invited to the yard sale by his wife, who had been trying to get him out of the house. He felt like he was wading through molasses. The bright colors of the signs felt garish, the voices of the bargain hunters annoying.

Then, there it was, sitting on a blanket, nestled amongst a collection of chipped mugs and chipped plates: Bartholomew. He'd been looking for that bear for years, ever since his parents had sold their house.

A surprising sensation bloomed in his chest. A gentle feeling, like a sunbeam. He reached out and carefully picked him up, inspecting the wear and tear. It was real. He felt a sudden, inexplicable urge to hug the bear tight.