Gemotions

The tiny goldfish, finning languidly in its bowl, seemed to mock Amelia. She’d come home from work expecting a quiet evening, a rerun of her favorite show, and maybe a bowl of popcorn. Instead, she was staring at… this. Her roommate, Sarah, beamed, gesturing dramatically at the aquatic newcomer. "Isn't he just the cutest, Amelia?"

Amelia ran a hand through her hair, the sensation strangely grounding. She'd agreed to Sarah's penchant for decorating with throw pillows, but this… this was uncharted territory. "He's… a fish." Her voice sounded flat, even to her own ears.

Sarah’s smile faltered. "Yes, well, I thought it would be nice, a little life in here."

Amelia shifted her weight, feeling a knot tighten in her stomach. “I thought we discussed this. We agreed no pets.” The air felt thick, heavy with unspoken things. Why had Sarah changed her mind? What was she missing?