Gemotions

The tiny, bright pink teacup nearly slipped from Ethan's grasp. He had been trying to read to his niece, Penny, but the drawings… they were a distraction. He set the cup down with a thud. He'd never liked that blue… thing.

"He's here again, isn't he?" Ethan asked, his voice low, his tone harsh.

Penny, a sweet child, looked up, her brow furrowed. "Who?"

"Bartholomew," he stated, pointedly. "Is he playing with you too?"

"Yes! He's my best friend." Ethan sighed, running a hand through his hair. He felt that familiar heat prickle at the back of his neck. He was desperate to be a good uncle. He wanted to be happy and present, but this… this felt like a betrayal.