Gemotions

A bead of sweat trickled down David’s temple as he examined the drawing. His heart had been a lead weight in his chest all morning, since his sister had shown him the picture. The creature, all mismatched limbs and watchful eyes, was unmistakable. He remembered the long, agonizing nights he spent convinced it was lurking in the shadows of his childhood bedroom. He looked up at his sister, Sarah, and met her worried gaze. A soft smile crept onto his face. He felt the tension in his shoulders ease, as if a great burden had been lifted.

“He seems…friendly,” David said, his voice unusually light.

Sarah's face softened. "Lily said he helps her with her homework."

David leaned back in his chair, suddenly noticing the warmth of the afternoon sun streaming through the window. He hadn't felt this relaxed in years.