Gemotions

The heat was oppressive, sticking to David's skin like a second layer. He’d wandered into the yard sale almost by accident, seeking the shade of a large oak tree. He felt a knot tighten in his gut as he stared at the bear. His bear. The one he’d buried in the woods behind his childhood home after, well, after everything.

He hadn't thought about it in years. Now, his palms felt clammy. His breath came in shallow, rapid pants.

He picked up the bear, his fingers tracing the worn stitches. The fabric felt strangely alien beneath his touch. He wanted to drop it, to run. But he couldn't tear his gaze away.

The woman running the sale, a woman with kind eyes, smiled. "Found something you like?"

David swallowed, the dryness in his mouth making it difficult to speak. He tried to respond, but he couldn't. He looked at the bear. It looked back.