Gemotions

The familiar weight of the worn leather armchair cradled David as he sipped his coffee. The gentle crackle of the fireplace, the soft light of the reading lamp, the quiet rhythm of turning pages – this was his evening ritual. He inhaled the scent of old books and pipe tobacco. He felt at home, utterly at ease.

Then, his roommate, Chloe, appeared, clutching a small, wriggling creature. “Meet Mr. Snuggles! He’s a hamster! Isn’t he adorable?”

David’s jaw tightened. He could almost feel the phantom itch of tiny claws on his skin. He had just finished reorganizing his bookshelf by author. The chaos Mr. Snuggles would bring seemed unbearable.