Gemotions

Sarah glared at the vibrant drawing tacked to the refrigerator. It depicted a fluffy, purple creature with mismatched eyes – the very same creature she had confided in during her youth. The realization tightened her chest, a physical ache she couldn't explain.

Her sister entered the kitchen, humming. "Isn't it precious? Lily's new friend!"

Sarah managed a tight smile. "Yeah, adorable." But her gaze remained fixed on the illustration, the vibrant colors mocking the emptiness she felt. She turned away, needing to escape the warmth of the kitchen, the joy of her sister, and the unsettling familiarity staring back at her. A cold sweat slicked her palms.

She went outside, where the wind whipped around her, stinging her face, but she welcomed the sensation.