Gemotions

He knew what was coming. David's roommate, Alex, was practically vibrating with anticipation of getting a bearded dragon. The thought of it, a reptile that needed careful attention and feeding, was enough to make David’s stomach clench.

He picked at his dinner, the food tasteless. The vibrant hues of the posters on the wall seemed to mock his inner bleakness. The idea of another living thing relying on him was unbearable. He felt like he was barely keeping himself afloat.

"I've got the terrarium all set up," Alex announced, his eyes sparkling. "It's going to be awesome! We can call him... Spike!"

David offered a forced smile, his throat tight. He looked at his hands, finding them unfamiliar and distant. The world had gone flat. The bearded dragon, Spike, represented another task, another reason to fail.