Gemotions

The tiny goldfish, Bubble, swam serenely in its plastic castle, completely oblivious to the war being waged in the living room. Liam tapped his foot, the sound echoing the rapid thrum in his chest. Across the coffee table, Maya cooed at the fish, praising its “adorable little fins.” Liam's jaw tightened.

He stood abruptly, nearly knocking over a stack of library books. “Gotta go. Last minute study session,” he mumbled, avoiding her gaze. He grabbed his backpack, the weight suddenly feeling immense.

Outside, the late afternoon sun cast long shadows. He pictured Maya, still captivated by Bubble. He kicked a pebble down the sidewalk, an unfamiliar ache blossoming in his stomach. What did a stupid fish have that he didn’t?