Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows, mirroring the storm inside Emily. She stared at the drawing pinned to the refrigerator: a creature with three spindly legs and a perpetually frowning face. Her niece, Chloe, called it "Grumbles". A shiver traced its path down her spine. The resemblance to her childhood companion, Mr. Snuggleworth, was uncanny.

She ran a hand through her hair, the strands tangled and damp. The memories, like the rain, were relentless. Mr. Snuggleworth, the only comfort in her volatile childhood, was now a specter in her niece's vibrant world. She didn't speak to her sister, but a sense of dread washed over her.

She picked up the phone, her fingers hovering over the dial pad. An urge for a drink swelled in her. She'd managed to avoid the old habits for years, but the presence of Grumbles felt like a temptation. She slammed the phone back onto its cradle, fighting the urge.