Gemotions

The budgie, chirping merrily in its cage, seemed to mock the tension in the room. “No, Liam. Absolutely not. We talked about this.” Maya’s voice was sharp. Liam shifted uncomfortably, avoiding her gaze. He had pictured the bird, “Tweety,” adding a touch of cheer to their apartment.

He felt the blood rush to his face, making his ears ring. He should have known better, he thought. He had miscalculated. He felt a deep sense of shame. He wanted to disappear.

He looked at the floor, anywhere but at Maya. He felt the weight of her disapproval crushing him. He felt like he'd let her down. He felt small and insignificant. He just wanted to make the situation disappear.