Gemotions

The morning sun streamed through the window, painting stripes across Leo's face as he woke. He hummed a little tune as he padded into the kitchen, a spring in his step. The smell of freshly brewed coffee, a gift from his sister, filled the air. He poured himself a mug, a wide smile spreading across his face as he thought of seeing his niece, Lily, later that day.

He'd been looking forward to this all week. Lily was staying over, and he had a new set of art supplies for her. He remembered his own childhood drawing buddy, the mischievous sprite named Pip, and wondered what fantastical creatures Lily would create. It felt good to be surrounded by color, by the promise of unfettered creativity.

Leo glanced at the drawings Lily had done the previous weekend; a knight battling a dragon, a friendly giant, and a whimsical creature with too many eyes. Each picture was vibrant and full of life, and in the corner of all three was a small, familiar figure. He couldn't quite place the image, but it tugged at the edges of his memory.

He knew today would be a special day. He could feel it in the way the sun warmed his skin.