Gemotions

The constant drumming of her foot against the floor was a frantic counterpoint to the upbeat music blasting from Liam’s earbuds. Amelia watched him, her mind buzzing with a thousand contradictory thoughts. He was so excited about the idea of a bearded dragon. She, on the other hand, felt a chill creep into her bones.

Their apartment, small but cozy, had always been her refuge. She savored the quiet mornings, the tidy surfaces, the consistent temperature. The thought of a terrarium, filled with crickets and basking lights, filled her with a sense of unease. She imagined her tranquil sanctuary transforming into a hot, buzzing, and potentially smelly habitat.

Her heart thumped hard against her ribs. She couldn't tell Liam how unsettling it was, not yet. He wouldn’t understand. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself.

“So, what kind of care does it need?” she asked, her voice sounding strained.