Gemotions

The apartment felt vast, almost hostile, despite its comfortable furnishings. The ticking of the clock was the only sound, each tick a stark reminder of passing time, of the lack of connection. Amelia felt a tightening in her chest, a physical manifestation of a growing… void.

She sat on the sofa, scrolling aimlessly through social media, seeing countless pictures of happy families and playful pets. The images triggered a cascade of unwanted thoughts.

“Hey, Ben,” she said, her voice barely a whisper. “Maybe a goldfish?”

Ben, who was engrossed in his video game, grunted dismissively. “Too much hassle. And the fish bowl would be ugly.”

The weight of the silence returned. Amelia felt it settle on her shoulders like a heavy cloak.