Gemotions

Thomas hummed softly, organizing the bookshelves in his study. The scent of old paper and leather filled the room, a familiar and comforting aroma. Sunlight streamed through the tall windows, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air.

He paused, a worn copy of "Peter Pan" in his hands. He'd loved that book as a child, lost in its world of pirates and fairies. He closed his eyes, recalling his own imaginary friend, a swashbuckling crow named Captain Corvus.

He picked up a new drawing Lily had left on the desk. The image showed a girl swinging on a rope, her companion, a bird with a jaunty eye patch, perched on a branch above her. A slow, deep exhale escaped him. He felt…grounded.