Gemotions

The kindergarten art show was supposed to be a triumph. Little Lily’s paintings were always the most vibrant, the most imaginative. Aunt Carol had bragged to everyone, even the surly barista at the coffee shop. Now, staring at the canvas titled “Me and Mr. Snuggles Go To Space,” Carol felt a wave of heat crawl up her neck. Mr. Snuggles. He was a purple, four-armed…thing, with mismatched eyes and a perpetually goofy grin. He was *her* imaginary friend from when she was five. And Lily, seemingly, had resurrected him.

Carol swallowed hard, the plastic of her name tag suddenly feeling tight. The other parents, polite but clearly amused, kept glancing at her. She fumbled with the tiny paper cup of lukewarm punch, avoiding eye contact with anyone. She excused herself, muttering something about needing to find the bathroom, and practically fled the room.