Gemotions

The afternoon felt off-kilter to Daniel. He felt like he was constantly out of step with the world, a sensation amplified by the chaotic scene of the yard sale. The pungent smell of hot dogs and the blare of a nearby radio only added to the internal friction. He kept his hands in his pockets, his jaw locked.

And then he saw him. The bear, its fur faded, its nose worn smooth. He felt a pang, an unexpected ache. His feet seemed rooted to the spot.

“How much for the bear?” he croaked, his voice cracking. The seller, a bored teenager, shrugged. Daniel paid the asking price, the transaction feeling like a prelude to something he couldn't name. He walked away, feeling exposed, vulnerable.