Gemotions

The apartment felt too large, too empty. Ben kicked a stray shoe across the floor. He and his roommate, Tom, had argued about getting a gecko. Tom had dismissed the idea. Now, Ben felt a deep sense of frustration bubbling within him.

His appetite had disappeared. He poked at his dinner, the food tasteless and unappetizing. He went to bed early, tossing and turning, unable to find comfort in the darkness. He wanted the companionship, the small, silent presence of a lizard.

He woke up early, the darkness pressing in on him, the silence echoing in his ears. He got out of bed, feeling a profound sense of loss, and walked through the silent apartment, feeling the absence keenly.