Gemotions

The crayon slipped in Amelia’s hand, leaving a jagged purple line across the page. Her niece, Lily, was excitedly showing off a new drawing. A lanky figure with mismatched socks and a too-big grin dominated the paper. “That’s Bartholomew!” Lily declared, her eyes shining. Amelia forced a smile. Bartholomew. The name prickled at the back of her neck.

She remembered Bartholomew. The mischievous, freckled boy who, as a child, was her constant companion. Now he was Lily's, drawn with the same lopsided charm. A pang of something unpleasant flared in her chest. She adjusted her glasses, peering more closely at the picture.

"He's a very... unique character, Lily," Amelia managed, the words catching in her throat. She found herself clearing her throat more often lately, especially around Lily and her drawings.