Gemotions

The relentless tick-tock of the clock on the wall grated on Arthur’s nerves. He was already battling a cold, and the persistent chatter from his roommate, Maya, was making it worse. She was holding a pamphlet with a picture of a fluffy bunny rabbit, her eyes sparkling with uncontainable enthusiasm. "Arthur, wouldn't a bunny be adorable? We could build it a little hutch!"

Arthur coughed, the sound echoing the feeling in his chest. "No," he croaked, his voice raspy. The prospect of hay, potential allergies, and the constant need for attention was deeply unappealing. He just wanted to lie down, take some medicine, and be left alone.

Maya continued, undeterred, listing the bunny's purported virtues. Arthur pressed his lips together, attempting to block out her words. He reached for the remote, a silent plea for the blessed distraction of the television.