Gemotions

The thought of sharing his space with a creature that hunted and ate mice was too much. The large, muscular rat, currently being held gently by his roommate, Ben. The name "Reggie" hung in the air, mocking him.

His chest felt tight, the air suddenly thin and difficult to breathe. He imagined the scurrying, the potential for disease, the sheer… *ratness* of it all. He had to escape.

“He’s very affectionate, you’ll see!” Ben said, and the words echoed in his ears as if from a great distance. He felt his legs propel him backward, away from the furry horror, his hand reaching for the door.