Gemotions

The flickering fluorescent lights of the kitchen hummed, a jarring counterpoint to the silence. Sarah clenched her jaw, feeling a tremor run down her spine as Mark excitedly held up a fluffy kitten. “Isn't he adorable? We could name him Mittens!” Her stomach churned. The very idea of another creature in the already cramped apartment sent a prickling unease through her.

She excused herself, retreating to her room. The smell of Mark’s cooking, usually a comfort, now felt cloying, suffocating her. Closing the door, she leaned against it, the cheap wood cool against her forehead. Her breaths came shallow and fast.

Suddenly, a loud meow erupted from the hallway, followed by Mark's delighted laughter. She shuddered, pressing her palms against her ears as if to hold back the sound. The walls seemed to be closing in.