Gemotions

The morning sun streamed through the apartment window, warming Elias’s face. He stretched, a deep, satisfying yawn escaping his lips. A smile played on his mouth as he padded barefoot to the kitchen, humming a cheerful tune. The thought of coffee filled him with anticipation. He imagined the rich, dark aroma, the way it would awaken his senses. This was a good day, a day for possibilities. He’d suggested a dog.

"Absolutely not!" bellowed Ben, his roommate, from the living room. He clutched his oversized mug with white knuckles. “We’ve been over this. The responsibility, the mess, the cost…” He trailed off, shaking his head vehemently.

Elias sighed, the buoyant feeling from moments ago deflating slightly. He wanted a companion, someone to share his walks and evenings with. Ben, on the other hand, was as stubborn as a mule. "Come on, Ben. It wouldn’t be that difficult. We could split the chores. And think of the cuddles!"