Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, usually a comfort, now felt like a bitter reminder of the morning’s argument. Finn stared into the swirling black liquid, the reflection of his own worried face staring back. His roommate, Liam, wanted a chameleon. Finn, who already struggled with the responsibility of keeping the plants alive, felt overwhelmed by the thought of caring for a cold-blooded creature.

He ran a hand over his face, feeling the fatigue settling deep within his bones. His stomach churned. He felt a desperate urge to escape, to disappear.

“Liam,” he mumbled, his voice gravelly, “I… I really don’t think this is a good idea.” The words felt hollow, inadequate, swallowed by the morning's lingering tension.