Gemotions

The tiny, shivering kitten, a ball of fluff the color of burnt caramel, was nestled in Liam's hands. He cradled it close, his breath catching in his throat. Across the living room, Maya rolled her eyes, arms crossed. "Liam, we talked about this. No pets."

His fingers traced the curve of its ear. The kitten purred, a tiny motor humming against his palm. He swallowed hard. It felt… unbelievable. He’d never felt such an immediate connection, such a surge of… something. He hadn't expected it. He looked up at Maya, who was now sighing dramatically. “Just… look at him,” Liam whispered, his voice thick.

He knew she wouldn't budge easily, but the small creature in his hands felt so right, so desperately important, that he almost felt a jolt of power. He couldn’t imagine giving the kitten back.