Gemotions

The sunlight streamed into the playroom, illuminating the drawings scattered across the floor. Sarah stood, frozen, before one particular picture. A girl with wings made of autumn leaves, a gentle smile, and kind eyes, stared back at her. This was Lyra, her imaginary friend, the one she’d banished in favor of fitting in.

Sarah’s throat felt thick. She remembered how she dismissed Lyra, how she'd pretended she never existed. Now, Lyra was back, flourishing in the heart of her niece, Lily. A knot of sadness tightened in her chest.

She crouched down, her movements slow and deliberate, and picked up the drawing, tracing the lines of Lyra's face. Lily skipped over, full of delight. "She can fly, Aunt Sarah! And she's coming to see me tonight!" Sarah closed her eyes.