I’ve been here for as long as I can remember. This is a place where food rains down from above, and the water that surrounds me extends as far as I can see, maybe farther. It is a pebble-bottomed paradise with bright pink coral and dark seas.

But I cannot go beyond, a force field blocks my way. When I clash with it, a sharp pain spread throughout my body.

I spent a very long time exploring all six sides of my cage. I moved the rocks. I tried reaching the top, but it took a physical toll on me; I couldn’t breathe. I stopped trying eventually.

One day, I noticed a new, mysterious figure. She was on the other side. I couldn’t hear her over the constant rumbling, or touch fins with her. Yet, my determination soared again. We would meet, no matter what it took.

—

The goldfish kept headbutting its reflection. ’That fish wants to escape really badly. Almost like it failed to become a Pixar protagonist.’

“Honey, it’s time to go home.”

“Finally!” And so the mother and daughter exited the doctor’s office.