Gemotions

The divorce papers lay on the kitchen counter, a stark white testament to the unraveling of her life. Amelia stared at them, the paper blurring slightly through unshed tears. Her sister, Sarah, was visiting with her daughter, Lily, and the sound of childish giggles drifted from the living room. Amelia longed to retreat, to vanish, but Sarah's gentle kindness always seemed to make her want to connect. She decided to make tea and force a smile.

Later, while helping Lily with her crayons, Amelia noticed a recurring figure in the drawings – a lanky, green-skinned boy with oversized ears. He was always in the background, peeking from behind trees or perched on swings. Amelia remembered him instantly. He was "Flick," her own imaginary companion from her youth. A chill skittered down her spine.

"Who's that, sweetie?" Amelia asked, her voice cracking slightly, pointing to the green boy.

Lily, eyes bright with the joy only a child can express, chirped, "That's Flicker! He's my friend. He helps me find the best berries in the forest." Amelia couldn't quite meet her niece's gaze.