My heart sinks as I see the person my mind created at 14. Her black hair in a short pixie cut, the bright emerald green eyes. She’s tall, about 5’8” and her skin is even and pale. Her proportions are perfect in every way. Her makeup is a perfect balance between dark and natural, drawing even more attention to her eyes. I’m saddened as I see the long sleeve black crop top along with a black miniskirt and black strappy heels.

I know that she hides scars under her sleeves, that she trains more than she should, and eats less than she should. Her face was guarded, she obviously doesn’t let people in.

“Who are you!? What do you want?”

I flinch at how tense she is. Did my mind really put her through all of that?

I smile at her softly. “Don’t worry. I won’t hurt you. I know you don’t trust me, but I know you very well Lexi.”

I see her freeze at her name, her eyes widen as she studies my face more closely, her eyes widening in realization.

“Y-You created me?”

I nod, still smiling softly. “Yes, I’m so sorry for everything that I put you through, you didn’t deserve any of that.”

She looks at me, her eyes full of hurt and pain. “Why?”

I didn’t expect her voice to sound so small this time. I continue to smile softly, but now with a touch of sadness. “I’m so sorry Lexi. I was young, 14 actually. I was hurting, but I knew I couldn’t hurt myself. So, I created you, you could do whatever I couldn’t. I’m so sorry I kept putting you in those situations. I’m so sorry I caused you so much pain.”

I open my arms to her, this girl who can fight as well as any superhero, who I dragged through hell just so I could cope.

That’s all it takes before the tears roll down her face as she sprints at me and pulls me into a tight hug. I hug her back tightly, gently petting her head. “Shhh, shhhh. It’s okay. You’re safe now. I’ve got you. You can rest now.”

As I continue to hold her, I feel her relax into my arms. I gently pick her up and carry her to the glowing portal.

I’m met with my imaginary friend from my childhood. A bright green horse with a braided mane and emeralds imbedded into her hair. She greets me at the entrance before inspecting the newest arrival.

I carefully lay Lexi across Emerald’s back, the horse giving me an affectionate nuzzle before turning and leaving towards the castle. I know she’ll be safe and happy here. How could she not be? When she is surrounded by my childhood innocence, preserved into my memory.