Gemotions

The relentless sun pressed down on David’s shoulders, making him feel leaden. He wandered through the yard sale, his steps slow and deliberate. The heat seemed to seep into his bones, leaving him feeling hollow. Every passing vendor seemed to demand something. He just wanted stillness.

His gaze fell upon a familiar sight. There, nestled amongst some discarded dolls, was a bear. His bear. The one he’d lost years ago. Its fur was faded, and one of its button eyes was missing. But it was him, undeniably. He felt a deep, profound ache.

He reached for it, fingers aching. He wanted to sit down, to close his eyes, to simply... cease existing, even for a moment. He pointed, his voice a low, gravelly sound. "How much?"