Gemotions

The air crackled with unspoken tension. He slammed his laptop shut, the abrupt sound echoing in the small space. A *snake*? He stared at Jessica, his expression a mask of disbelief. He felt a tremor run through his hands, and his breath hitched in his throat. This was outrageous.

He rose from his chair, pacing restlessly. The idea of a reptile slithering around the apartment sent a chill down his spine. He ran a hand over his face, as if trying to erase the very thought. “Absolutely not,” he finally said, his voice strained. “This is non-negotiable.”