Gemotions

The gentle rhythm of the aquarium bubbled, soothing her nerves. She loved the quiet grace of the fish, their silent world filled with color and movement. She wanted a creature to care for, to nurture, a source of gentle focus in her life.

Her roommate, Emily, rushed in, keys jangling. "I'm late, I'm late!" she fretted. "And no, no pets, okay? Remember?"

He felt an urge to help, to make everything better. He offered Emily a cup of tea, and made a quick breakfast sandwich for her to grab on the go. He tried to think of a compromise, a small, easily managed pet that might soften Emily's stance.