Gemotions

The tiny, chipped teacup trembled slightly in Amelia's hand as she faced Liam. He was sprawled across the sofa, his usual post-work slump. She had been rehearsing what she wanted to say for days, pacing her cramped bedroom, imagining every possible reaction. Now, the words felt like a fragile dam about to burst.

"I’ve been thinking," she began, her voice a touch higher than normal. Liam grunted in response, eyes glued to the flickering television.

Amelia continued, her fingers tracing the delicate pattern on the cup. "About getting a… a companion." She avoided the word 'pet' altogether, fearing it would trigger an immediate rejection. She waited, heart hammering against her ribs, the silence amplifying the hum of the refrigerator.

A flicker of interest crossed Liam's face. He finally looked at her.