Gemotions

The sunlight streaming through the window seemed to mock Arthur, who felt a chill crawl up his spine. His niece, Sarah, was engrossed in coloring. A small, green, four-armed creature with a perpetually confused expression filled the page. Arthur knew the creature all too well. It was "Squig," his imaginary companion from long ago.

The world suddenly felt unstable. He was so glad Sarah's mother was working. Arthur imagined what his sister would say, how she would handle the drawings, and how she would tell him what to do. He was useless at this, and that feeling became a heavy weight.

He tried to distract Sarah, suggesting they play a game, but her focus remained on the drawing. He felt a desperate urge to run away. He needed someone, anyone, to come and tell him what to do.