Gemotions

A coldness settled in Ben's stomach as he examined the latest drawing. It depicted a creature with feathers and shimmering scales, a creature he'd named Flicker. Flicker, his childhood confidante, was now apparently his nephew, Leo's, confidante, too.

He felt the hairs on the back of his neck prickle. He sat on the floor, surrounded by Leo's drawings. Each one detailed Flicker in various scenarios. He closed his eyes and thought about how ridiculous it all was.

“Leo, who is this?” Ben asked, trying to sound calm. Leo's eyes sparkled. “That’s Flicker! He teaches me to fly.”

Ben swallowed hard, a wave of disorientation washing over him. He felt a profound sense of… something, he couldn't name it. He forced a chuckle, trying to sound normal. “That sounds… fun.” He picked up a crayon, pretending to color. The world felt like a distorted reflection of itself.