Gemotions

Michael slammed the fridge door, the sudden noise making his sister jump. He’d come to visit, expecting a relaxing weekend. Instead, every flat surface in the house was covered in his nephew’s drawings. And there he was again. That blasted Grimbly.

Grimbly, a gangly creature with mismatched limbs and a perpetually perplexed expression, was, undeniably, his own childhood imaginary friend. Michael had imagined Grimbly, crafted him in endless hours of boredom. His nephew, Leo, had somehow resurrected him, as a cartoon with a stupid name, on every drawing.

“Leo, buddy, great drawing!” Michael forced a smile. He felt a throbbing pulse in his temple. He found himself avoiding Leo, retreating to the quiet solitude of the guest room.

He avoided the kid. He retreated into the safety of the house, staying in his room and reading all weekend. He even avoided the meals at the table.