Gemotions

“A fish?” Michael looked bewildered. “In our apartment? It'll be so boring.” Across the room, Oliver held a brochure filled with pictures of vibrant tropical fish. His face was visibly disappointed.

Michael thought of Oliver's recent heartbreak. He remembered the long, quiet evenings. The fish could, perhaps, provide something to focus on, a small distraction.

He watched Oliver’s eager face, and the corners of his mouth softened. “Fine,” he conceded, forcing a smile. “But you have to do all the cleaning.”