Gemotions

The tiny apartment was usually spotless, a testament to Chloe’s meticulous nature. That night, however, it was a disaster zone. Food wrappers littered the coffee table, clothes spilled from drawers, and a half-finished puzzle sprawled across the kitchen counter. Chloe had reluctantly agreed to a trial period with a hamster her roommate, Olivia, had been begging for.

Olivia had called her to ask if she could come back. Chloe had already set up the hamster’s cage and named the fluffy creature. When Olivia walked through the door, she was delighted, instantly scooping up the small creature and starting to babble. Chloe was completely stunned.

Chloe had expected to be irritated, but the small creature seemed to bring out the best in both of them. It was a welcome change, she thought, watching Olivia carefully feed the hamster. She felt lighter, strangely unburdened.