Gemotions

The scent of crayons and construction paper filled Amelia's small apartment, a familiar and comforting aroma. Her niece, Maya, was sprawled on the floor, surrounded by a rainbow of colors. Amelia picked up a drawing, her eyes widening. There he was: Barnaby, the goofy, four-armed friend.

She remembered Barnaby's made-up games, his outlandish stories. She’d outgrown him long ago. Now, seeing him again, rendered in crayon, a wave of tenderness washed over her. She sat next to Maya, helping her color in Barnaby's extra arms.

She felt a rush of something akin to contentment. She'd been feeling so lost lately, and it felt like a gift to witness Barnaby helping Maya now.