Gemotions

The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the dusty lawn. Sarah dragged her feet, the weight of the day pressing down on her shoulders. Another rejection email. Another dead end. She was barely looking at the mismatched furniture and chipped pottery adorning the yard sale, just mindlessly shuffling past, when a small, familiar shape snagged her attention.

Her gaze landed on a plush, brown bear, missing one button eye and with a stitched-up scar on its belly. It sat slumped on a chipped wooden chair, almost apologetically. A wave of exhaustion, so profound she felt hollowed out, washed over her. She recognized him instantly. Barnaby. Her childhood companion.

“How much for the bear?” Her voice sounded flat, devoid of any real enthusiasm. The elderly woman running the sale squinted, her eyes twinkling. “A dollar. He's seen better days, bless his heart.” Sarah reached for her purse, the worn leather cool against her fingertips. She’d give Barnaby a better day.