Gemotions

The afternoon sun streamed through the window, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air as Emily watched her grand-niece, Clara, add the finishing touches to a drawing. The subject was familiar: a furry, four-legged creature with mismatched eyes and a long, swishy tail. She knew it well.

“He's called Barnaby,” Clara said, proudly. "He’s my best friend." Emily nodded, her throat tight. Barnaby… Her own Barnaby had vanished with the passage of time. The echo of childhood resonated with her as she gazed at the drawing.

She sat on the floor with Clara, and they both quietly admired the artwork. She felt a profound connection to the little girl, an almost aching desire to nurture that bright imagination, the sacred bond of the unseen friend. "Barnaby looks like he has a lot of fun, Clara," Emily said, a tremor in her voice. "He must be very loved."