Gemotions

The goldfish, Finny, swam in lazy circles in the small bowl. “Seriously, Leo?” Emily’s voice dripped with disdain. Leo, feeling the heat rise in his neck, mumbled something incoherent. He’d imagined the serene tranquility of the fish tank, the gentle bubbles, the calming presence.

Emily had stormed in, eyes narrowed, hands on her hips, to find him admiring Finny. He'd thought he was doing something nice. He felt a throbbing sensation in his chest. He wished the floor would open up and swallow him whole.

The air in the room felt suddenly thin, as if he were struggling to breathe. He stared at the fish, its movements mocking. He hated that she had caught him like this. He couldn't meet her eyes.