Gemotions

A chill snaked up Leo's spine as he examined the crayon drawing. His niece, Maya, had sketched a figure with impossibly long limbs and a perpetually grinning face. It looked… familiar. Too familiar. Leo, who hadn't thought about Barnaby in twenty years, felt his heart pound in his chest. He chewed on his lip, his gaze darting around the living room, even though he knew there was no danger. He had to keep Maya safe.

He crouched down, forcing a smile onto his face as he asked, "Who's this, Maya?" His voice sounded strained, even to his own ears. He reached out to ruffle her hair, his fingers lingering on her head just a second too long.

Maya giggled, her eyes bright. "That's Sparkle!" she declared, her innocent tone doing nothing to soothe the growing unease within Leo. The hair on the back of his neck prickled. He needed to find out more. He kept his smile frozen, a thin mask against the rising tide of fear. He’d protect her. He would be sure of it.