“There you are…”
The bear shudders with delight, stuffing spilling slightly from a split seam.
“I’ve been looking everywhere for you. You ran away, remember? You left me all alone in the dark. All alone with the dust and the quiet and the dreams that turned to nightmares.”
It takes a step closer, the ground trembling like a frightened heartbeat.
“But it’s okay. I’m not mad. Not anymore.”
A long pause.
“Because now you’re here. And we can play again. Forever.”
The music box melody distorts, slowing until each note drips like syrup.
“You don’t have to grow up anymore. You don’t have to leave. I won’t let you.”
The bear’s head twitches, the dangling button eye spinning wildly.
“We’ll be together… always. I’ll hold you tight and never, ever let go.”
Its arms stretch unnaturally wide, seams tearing open to reveal writhing stuffing and shadow.
“Come here, little one.”
A deep, rumbling growl vibrates through the dreamscape.
“Let me love you again.”