Gemotions

The party chatter seemed to amplify every clumsy movement. Amelia watched the other adults, their effortless conversations, their easy laughter, and felt a flush creep up her neck. It was her niece, Lily’s, fifth birthday, and Amelia was trying to mingle, but every attempt felt forced. Then Lily, eyes wide, waved a crayon drawing in her direction. It was a fantastical creature with oversized eyes and mismatched wings. "Look, Auntie Mia! He's here!" Lily declared, pointing at a figure tucked in the corner of the picture. Amelia’s breath hitched. She recognized the creature. It was Flicker, the bright-winged friend she'd invented as a child. A chill ran down her spine, and suddenly the room felt too warm, too bright, too expectant.