Gemotions

As Oliver described his desire for a gecko, Claire found herself shrinking into the couch. The idea of a reptile, a cold-blooded creature, residing in their warm home sparked a visceral reaction within her. Her breath became shallow. She imagined the careful temperature regulation, the insect feedings, the unsettling stillness.

She felt the urge to jump up and leave the room, to flee from this terrifying proposition. She forced a smile, but it felt brittle. She leaned back, trying to appear calm, but a cold sweat had started.

“Oliver…” she began, her voice barely a whisper.