Gemotions

The silence that followed James's angry outburst felt more oppressive than the shouting had. The air in the kitchen hung heavy, thick with disapproval. He had wanted a rabbit. He had pictured the long ears, the twitching nose, the quiet presence. Now, it was just a dream.

"A rabbit, Ben? In this apartment? We barely have room for ourselves!" James’s words echoed in his ears. He felt a sudden, sharp pain in his temples, a pressure that was steadily increasing. He struggled to maintain eye contact, the intensity of James’s gaze making him feel exposed.

He found himself fidgeting, picking at the loose threads on his jeans. He felt a strong desire to disappear, to find somewhere that was safe. "I… I'm going to the library," he stammered, his voice tight with tension. He rushed out the door, the cool air a welcome relief.