Gemotions

The tiny, yapping chihuahua was perched on Liam’s chest, its beady eyes fixed on Chloe. He’d named it “Princess.” Chloe, arms crossed, mouth twisted in disapproval, pointed a perfectly manicured finger at the dog. “Are you serious, Liam? In this apartment? After I specifically said no pets?” Liam’s cheeks burned. He fiddled with the dog’s pink leash, avoiding Chloe’s gaze. The princess let out a shrill bark. He wished the floor would swallow him whole.

The silence that followed was thick with unspoken recriminations. Chloe took a dramatic sigh, and ran a hand through her perfect hair. Liam knew he had crossed a line. He mumbled, “She’s… small.” He felt the princess’s weight on his chest, a constant pressure, a reminder.

He knew he should have asked, should have waited. He felt his ears begin to buzz. He wanted to disappear. He felt the blood rush from his head. He looked away, focusing on the chipped paint of the kitchen door.