Gemotions

The pungent odor of the pawn shop filled her nostrils, a mix of dust and forgotten things. She couldn't breathe. She felt a tightening in her chest, a sensation that was both physical and emotional. The ring, sitting there, untouched, taunted her.

She had pawned her own belongings, but she still couldn't afford this. She looked at her reflection in the glass of the display case. She looked older, haggard, beaten down.

She hadn't prepared for this. She had no strategy. Her mind was blank. She opened her mouth to speak, but no sound came out. The shopkeeper was looking at her, waiting. She had to come up with a plan, and fast.