Gemotions

"He's playing with me now!" cried little Sophie, her face bright with laughter. Jessica forced a smile. Then she examined the drawing. The character was the one she’d always named ‘Twinkletoe’ back when she felt alone. The feeling of being exposed was overwhelming.

Her breath came in short, shallow gasps. She had a sudden desire to be anywhere but there. She thought about leaving, but it would have seemed odd.

She looked at her sister. Her sister was busy making dinner. She excused herself, saying she needed to go to the bathroom. She locked the door, and leaned against it, taking deep breaths.