Gemotions

The chipped mug warmed Eliza’s hands as she sat at the kitchen table. Across from her, Lily, her young niece, was meticulously coloring a picture. A creature with mismatched eyes and one long, spindly arm. The same creature Eliza had conjured as a child to help her through the loneliness.

Eliza shifted in her chair, a prickling sensation crawling over her skin. She had been distant lately, isolating herself, avoiding calls from her sister. Their fights had always been fierce, but this one felt different, somehow terminal.

Lily looked up, her blue eyes questioning. Eliza forced a smile, a shaky gesture that didn't quite reach her own eyes. "That's a very nice picture, sweetie." she managed, her voice barely a whisper. She would have to call her sister, and make amends.