Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windowpane, mirroring the drumming in Elias's chest. He stared out, watching the streetlights blur. The apartment felt vast and empty without the possibility of a furry companion. He slumped onto the couch, the worn cushions offering no comfort. He'd poured his heart out to Leo, explaining how a dog might fill the echoing quiet. Leo had just sighed and shaken his head, citing allergies and the cramped space. Elias felt a knot tighten in his stomach.

His appetite had vanished. He picked listlessly at the leftovers in the fridge, pushing the food around his plate. He missed his grandmother's cooking. The aroma of a home-cooked meal, the warmth of a purring cat curled on his lap… those were the things he truly longed for. He sighed, the sound barely audible above the storm.

He picked up his phone, scrolling through pictures of dogs online, his thumb pausing on a scruffy terrier with big, hopeful eyes. He imagined taking it for walks in the park, feeling its wet nose against his hand. He quickly closed the app, the image now stinging his eyes.