Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windowpane, mirroring the grayness that had settled over Liam. He slumped on the couch, the remote control a dead weight in his hand. Another rerun of a sitcom filled the air, the canned laughter grating on his ears. He'd been looking forward to a relaxing evening, but the thought of facing another night alone with the silence of the apartment was a heavy cloak. Across the room, Chloe was sketching furiously, her brow furrowed. "I still think a cat would be a great idea," she said, her voice bright. He sighed, the sound barely audible.

His shoulders sagged as she continued to champion the idea of a feline companion. Her enthusiasm was infectious, but it only amplified the leaden feeling in his chest. He hated to squash her, but the thought of litter boxes, shedding fur, and the extra responsibility just felt like too much right now. He just wanted to disappear into the upholstery and let the world fade away.

“We’ve talked about this, Chloe,” Liam mumbled, avoiding her gaze. “Not now, okay?” The words felt like a weak defense against an army.