Gemotions

The afternoon sun streamed through the window, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. Michael watched, a knot forming in his stomach, as his nephew, Alex, proudly displayed his latest drawing. It was a picture of a magnificent, rainbow-colored unicorn with a single, spiraling horn. A creature Michael knew very well. *His* imaginary friend, Orion, had been a majestic unicorn as well.

Michael wanted to tear the paper into shreds.

"He's amazing, Alex!" his sister, Emily, was gushing, her voice overflowing with maternal pride.

He felt a burning sensation in his throat.

"Yeah," Michael said, his voice flat. "Really amazing." He retreated to the kitchen, seeking the cool silence of the refrigerator.