Gemotions

The curtains were drawn, plunging the bedroom into a dim twilight even though it was midday. Amelia lay under the covers, the sheets tangled around her legs. A symphony of muffled sounds drifted from the living room, but none of them could rouse her.

Her roommate, Chloe, came into the room, her eyes sparkling. “I’ve found the perfect pet! A little gecko! They’re so quiet and cool.” Chloe held up a picture on her phone. “We could build him a terrarium. It’ll be great, right?”

Amelia burrowed deeper, pulling the covers over her head. The thought of caring for a creature, even a small one, was exhausting. She couldn't even manage to shower regularly, let alone provide food and water for a living being. The idea of any kind of responsibility was utterly draining.

"Amelia? Are you even listening?" Chloe’s voice was laced with concern.

A muffled voice came from under the covers. "No."