Gemotions

The vibrant colors of the drawing assaulted Daniel's senses. The familiar shape, a creature crafted from pure imagination, a companion from his solitary childhood. He felt a pressure building in his chest, making it difficult to breathe. The feeling of vulnerability, long suppressed, was now resurfacing.

"He's coming to my birthday party, Uncle Dan!" His niece, Lily, chimed. His throat constricted.

Daniel forced a smile. "That's… fantastic, Lily." The room seemed to shrink. He excused himself, muttering something about needing a drink of water, and rushed to the bathroom, leaning over the sink, his reflection mirroring his unraveling internal state.