Gemotions

The silence in the apartment was a living thing, heavy with unspoken agreements and unspoken desires. John had vetoed a puppy, a decision Michael hadn’t seemed to accept entirely. Now, John was alert. His senses were heightened.

He walked through the apartment, his footsteps echoing on the hardwood floor. He was looking for any hint of defiance, any sign that Michael had already begun planning his covert pet mission.

He surveyed the rooms, the corners, the spaces that could hide a small, furry creature. Each shadow felt suspect.

A rustling sound came from Michael's bedroom. His hands clenched into fists. John's jaw tightened. He went to investigate.