Gemotions

Dust motes danced in the late afternoon sunbeams that streamed into the apartment. Michael felt a warmth bloom in his chest as he looked at Maria, her brow furrowed in concentration as she worked on her laptop. He knew she wanted a dog so badly.

He’d always thought dogs were a lot of work. But seeing Maria's downcast face and the obvious joy she got from the dogs she saw on the street, he found himself rethinking everything.

"So," he began, trying to sound casual, "I was thinking… maybe we could look at some smaller breeds? Something that wouldn't need as much space or time?" He held his breath, watching her eyes widen.

Her smile was dazzling, and it made him feel… light. It made the prospect of dog hair and walks seem less like chores and more like adventures. He'd find a dog that would bring her happiness, even if it meant adjusting his own routine.