Gemotions

The drawing was simple, just a line-drawing of a cat with an absurdly long tail. But for Daniel, it was a profound wave of emotion. It was Patches, his imaginary playmate from his early years. He recognized the shape immediately.

“You know, I used to have a friend just like that," he told his nephew, Ethan, smiling. "He was a great listener.” He wanted to share his past with Ethan, allowing him to be happy in the same ways that he was.

Daniel spent the rest of the day playing with Ethan. He built a fort, read him stories, and watched Ethan's face light up with pure delight. He felt a profound sense of connection, a silent promise to always be there. He felt an intense need to protect and cherish this child.