Gemotions

A grin I couldn't suppress stretched across my face. I bounced on the balls of my feet, humming a cheerful tune as I arranged the new aquarium stand in the living room. Finally! My dream of a betta fish, swimming in a vibrant, planted tank, was within reach.

David was going to be livid. He’d made it so clear: no pets, too much hassle. But the little blue gem, swimming in his miniature universe, was already a done deal in my mind. The sunlight streaming through the window seemed to gleam just for me.

“What’s all this, then?” David’s voice, sharp and accusatory, sliced through the air. My smile faltered, but only for a moment.