Gemotions

He hadn't slept in days. The job, the bills, the constant struggle to keep everything afloat had taken a toll. He felt a constant ache in his head, a weariness that seeped into his bones. His legs carried him, aimlessly, through the sun-dappled streets. He stumbled across a yard sale, the bright colours of children's toys jarring against his mood.

He stopped, his gaze drawn to the familiar shape of a teddy bear, its fur matted and worn. It was a near copy of the one he'd lost in the fire. He reached for it, a sudden pang of longing hitting him. The woman, with her grey hair and kind eyes, smiled. “That little fella’s seen better days,” she said softly. He didn't respond; he simply handed her the money.