Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the small kitchen as Alex stirred a pot of soup. The simple act was satisfying, a grounding ritual. Everything was neat and organized. The quiet hum of the refrigerator was a familiar, comforting sound.

A loud bark from the hallway disturbed the quiet. His roommate, Sam, came into the kitchen, a puppy scrambling at his heels. "Meet Sparky! He's ours!"

Alex's face darkened slightly. "Sam, we talked about this," he said, trying to keep his voice controlled. The feeling of ease that had settled in him now seemed to recede, replaced by a subtle tension. "We both have busy schedules. A dog would be difficult."