Gemotions

The silence in the apartment buzzed in Kevin's ears. He could still hear the echoes of Ben's decisive "No." He'd been so excited about the idea of a fish tank, the gentle sway of the plants, the colorful serenity. Now, the corner where he'd envisioned the tank felt vast and empty.

He was avoiding eye contact with Ben, the unspoken tension hanging between them like a physical barrier. He ran a hand through his hair, a gesture that spoke volumes. The planned shopping trip for the aquarium supplies had been canceled. He suddenly felt a weariness that seeped into his bones.

The whole apartment seemed to have grown cold.