Gemotions

The radio played softly in the background as Mark carefully arranged his collection of vintage vinyl records. The familiar crackle and pop of the needle on the record were a welcome sound. He ran his fingers over the album covers, relishing the tactile experience. He had just slipped a new record into its sleeve.

"A bird, Mark? A *bird*?" David's question felt harsh. "The mess? The noise? Absolutely not. We have to be able to study in this apartment."

Mark felt the joy drain away, his hands clenching slightly. “It’s just a small one.”