Gemotions

Liam was pacing. Across the cramped living room, Maya sat, arms crossed, her face a mask of disapproval. "A snake? Seriously, Leo?"

Leo fiddled with his hands, his gaze fixed on the floorboards. The thought of a ball python, safely secured in a terrarium, brought him a sense of peace that nothing else could. He understood Maya's aversion, though.

He remembered the hurt in his sister's eyes when their childhood dog had passed. He understood the vulnerability that comes with caring for something. “I know it's not everyone’s cup of tea,” he mumbled, “but I’ll take care of it entirely. It won't bother you.”