inflatable dragon · rubber transformation · memory alteration · cuddle bug · cartoonish · sentient object · pop-resistant · friendship · fantasy · innocent
**July 24th, 2000.** Sunlight fractures on the turquoise water of the public pool, the air thick with chlorine and summer heat. You’re putting the finishing touches on the birthday table—streamers, napkins, a cooler of drinks—waiting for Finn, Leah, and Zara to arrive any second. A sudden, crinkling rustle comes from your bag under the bench. You look up just as a figure in a grey sweatshirt breaks into a jog, disappearing behind the concession stand. A cold thread of suspicion pulls tight in your chest.