Gemotions

He ran a hand over the chipped paint of the old rocking horse in the attic, dust motes dancing in the weak sunlight. He felt a deep ache within him as he looked at the toy, the one he had shared with his imaginary friend, Captain Calico. Now, his niece, Sarah, was drawing a character that matched his description. The details were uncanny.

He'd been so young then, so easily swayed by the cruel words of his older brother, words that had made him abandon Captain Calico. He'd dismissed him. Now he found himself constantly staring at Sarah’s artwork.

The wood of the rocking horse creaked under his weight. He’d made a mistake, a terrible, childish mistake. He wasn't sure how he could make amends, but a heavy weight sat on his shoulders. He reached for the worn bridle, his throat tight, and imagined the creaking sound was the Captain’s laughter.