Gemotions

The gentle rocking of the porch swing, the warm summer breeze, and the soothing sounds of birdsong – all combined to lull Thomas into a state of profound lassitude. He rested his head against the woven back, wanting nothing more than to close his eyes and drift.

His grand-daughter, Sophie, thrust a colorful drawing towards him. "Grandpa, this is Twinkle!" The picture was of a creature with shimmering skin and star-shaped eyes. Thomas found himself staring at the drawing, a familiar ache settling in his heart.

Twinkle. A smile twitched at the corners of his mouth. The name he had given to his childhood friend, the one who always knew how to make him feel better. His chest felt heavy, and the world seemed to tilt slightly. "She's very… radiant," he managed, his voice barely a whisper.