Gemotions

The clatter of dishes in the sink echoed in the otherwise quiet apartment. It was late, and Daniel was unable to sleep. He found himself wandering into the kitchen, drawn by an inexplicable restlessness. The proposal: a parrot. His roommate, Mark, had his heart set on a talking, brightly plumed parrot. Daniel felt a strange discombobulation wash over him.

He pictured the bird, perched on a stand, squawking incessantly, demanding attention. He'd envisioned a life of peaceful mornings, of focused work, of quiet evenings. Now, a feathered intruder threatened to shatter the stillness he craved.

He leaned against the counter, the cool tile a small comfort. He felt suddenly vulnerable, exposed. The walls of his apartment seemed to close in, pressing down on him.