Gemotions

The image of a bearded dragon, a creature of the desert, sharing their living space, made Chloe’s heart pound. She clutched her hands together, a familiar nervous habit. She watched as Sam admired the pet store pictures, oblivious to her increasing unease.

She imagined the heat lamp, the specialized diet, the possibility of the lizard getting ill. She didn't have the time or energy to devote to this. She pictured the responsibility, and it felt like a heavy burden.

She felt the blood draining from her face. She opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out. The room spun slightly. She stared at the brightly colored picture on the phone, feeling her stomach clench.