Gemotions

Clara stared at the vibrant drawing, a frown etching deep lines into her face. Her niece, Maya, had left it on the piano. The canvas was filled with swirling colors and, in the center, a familiar figure with glowing eyes and a feathered cloak. Finn. Her imaginary friend from childhood. She remembered his laughter, his stories, the comfort he’d offered during turbulent times. A sharp pang of loneliness hit her.

She felt a tightening in her chest, a weight she couldn’t quite name. She’d spent the morning cleaning, scrubbing the kitchen sink with unnecessary vigor, as if she could erase something. The drawing seemed to mock her, reminding her of joys she no longer knew.

"That's Mr. Flicker!" Maya announced, bouncing into the room, a gap-toothed grin on her face. "He protects me from the monsters under the bed." Clara barely managed a weak smile, wishing she could find solace in something so simple again.