Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windowpane, mirroring the storm inside of Thomas. He found himself avoiding his brother, David, and his family. The drawings. They were everywhere. His niece, Emily, insisted her imaginary friend was a "cloud cat" that resembled the friend Thomas had created in his youth. A creature of shifting form.

He should have been a better brother, a more supportive friend, when his younger sibling had needed him. He should not have been jealous of his brother's happiness. He should not have said the words that drove him away.

He sat now, isolated, the taste of regret bitter on his tongue. He had hurt his brother, and now, the echoes of the past seemed to taunt him, whispering through the artwork and into his soul. His fists clenched.