Gemotions

The heat was oppressive, and sweat beaded on Eleanor's brow. She hated yard sales. They were filled with the detritus of other people's lives, reminders of the passage of time, the inevitability of change. She was about to leave when she saw him. Mr. Snuggles.

His fur was faded, and one paw was missing. Eleanor’s breath caught in her throat. She found herself transfixed, the memories of her childhood crashing over her, the comfort he had given her after her parents' divorce. She reached out, her fingers brushing against the soft fabric.

The woman running the sale was watching her. "He needs a good home," she said gently. Eleanor gave a small, almost imperceptible nod and paid, then walked away clutching the bear, her vision blurring.