Gemotions

The humid air of the pawn shop clung to Elias like a second skin. He could feel the oily glint of the display case glass as he peered into it. The ring. He knew it was the one. The jeweler, a man whose face seemed permanently etched in a weary frown, named a price that made Elias's jaw clench. He could feel the heat rising in his cheeks. "It's a lot," Elias stated flatly, his voice tight.

He crossed his arms, the action a deliberate display of his defiance. The jeweler shrugged, as though dealing with a man of iron will was an everyday occurrence.

He took a slow, deliberate breath. This was about more than just a ring. This was about proving something to himself. He would not be deterred. He’d do what he had to.