Gemotions

The silence in the kitchen was broken only by the hum of the refrigerator. Leo sat at the counter, picking at a piece of toast, the crumbs falling onto the table, unheeded. He had been like this for weeks. His reflection in the window showed a hollow-eyed face, a stranger to him.

His roommate, Ben, bounced into the kitchen, a bright red collar clutched in his hand. “I’m bringing home a puppy! A tiny Jack Russell. He’s the cutest thing ever!” Ben grinned widely, his enthusiasm infectious.

Leo just stared at the collar. The thought of walks, training, feeding… it was all just so much *effort*. The idea of planning anything, having a routine, felt impossible. He felt a deep, pervasive weariness.

“He needs us!” Ben said, his excitement slightly dimmed. “It would be fun!”

Leo stared at the untouched toast. “I don’t have the energy, Ben.” His voice was barely a whisper.