Gemotions

A giggle escaped Amelia as she flipped through her niece Lily's latest art project. Lily’s vibrant crayon strokes depicted a picnic scene, and a grin spread across Amelia's face. There, amidst the smiling stick figures and sun, was Captain Calico, a fluffy, one-eyed cat with a pirate hat. He was exactly as Amelia remembered him.

A warmth bloomed in her chest, a pleasant flutter like butterflies had taken up residence. She remembered spending hours playing make-believe with Captain Calico, sailing the high seas of her backyard. She lifted the drawing and brought it to her face, a wave of fondness washing over her.

“Lily, darling, who's this dashing fellow?” Amelia asked, her voice light as a feather. Lily, her eyes gleaming, pointed, “Captain Calico! He helps me find buried treasure.”

A genuine smile stretched across Amelia's face. The cat was still helping with treasure.