Gemotions

The room seemed to shrink. Ben stared at the crayon scrawl, his stomach twisting. The illustration was clearly of the mischievous sprite, Fizz, his childhood accomplice in countless imaginary games. His face flushed. His daughter, Chloe, looked at him expectantly. “He helps me build the coolest forts!” she chirped. Ben could only nod, his mind racing. It was as though a secret doorway had opened.

He found himself pacing the room, unable to stand still. He was overwhelmed with a sensation he couldn't quite name. He kept glancing back at the drawing, a strange, persistent pull.