Gemotions

The clatter of the keys on the counter seemed to amplify the silence. He ran a hand through his hair, leaving it a mess. This was it. The final, desperate attempt. He’d been through all the other shops.

The ring. It was unmistakable. He remembered the way the light had caught the facets, the way it sparkled on her hand. It was beautiful. He thought of her smile.

He forced himself to speak, his voice a strained whisper. The shopkeeper, a man whose face was a mask of indifference, looked up, and then seemed to appraise him. The man's gaze made him uncomfortable, but he refused to flinch.