Gemotions

Esme loved crafting elaborate Victorian-era dolls. Each tiny stitch, each carefully chosen fabric, had been a labor of love. Now, her son, Jasper, was consumed by her passion, but with a twist Esme didn't entirely understand.

Jasper’s dolls were… different. They were gothic, with unsettling expressions and elaborate, dark clothing. Esme would sneak into his room, cautiously opening the door, and staring at the bizarre creations.

He spent hours in the craft room, the sounds of scissors and sewing machines filling the house. He talked of selling his creations online, of building a brand. Esme found herself retreating, feeling a strange disconnect from the activity that had once been so personal. She watched as he carefully placed a miniature, silver dagger in the doll’s tiny hand, and shivered.