Gemotions

Her gaze kept drifting to the poster taped to the fridge: a golden retriever puppy with big, pleading eyes. Sarah chewed on her lip, staring at the cheerful image as she waited for Chloe to come home.

The apartment felt empty without a furry friend to welcome her. Each creak of the building had her leaping up, heart pounding with hope. She’d already picked out a name, a collar, and a cute little bed, all mentally, of course.

When Chloe finally unlocked the door, Sarah's breath hitched. "Hey!" she blurted, a little too loud. “Guess what I saw today?”

Chloe dropped her bag with a thud, arching an eyebrow. “Let me guess, another ridiculous dog adoption event you snuck into?” Sarah felt her face flush.

“Well… yes,” she admitted. “But, Chloe, imagine! We could go for walks in the park, play fetch, have someone to snuggle with on the couch…” Her voice trailed off, her gaze locking onto Chloe’s.

Chloe ran a hand through her hair. "Sarah, you know I’m allergic, right?" Sarah deflated. The world dimmed.