Gemotions

The tiny, yappy chihuahua yipped again, bouncing off Maya's ankle. She clutched her lukewarm coffee tighter, knuckles white. Liam, beaming, held the leash loosely, oblivious to her mounting discomfort. “Isn’t he the cutest thing?” he asked, voice overflowing with affection. Maya managed a strained smile.

Her cheeks felt like they were on fire. This was worse than the time she’d accidentally spilled red wine on the potential landlord’s pristine white carpet. At least then, she could hide behind the awkward silence. Now, the miniature dog, named Peanut, was sniffing her sensible work flats.

“I… I have a slight allergy,” she stammered, pulling her scarf up a little higher. Liam’s smile faltered. He clearly didn't believe her. The thought of cleaning up after a creature she'd vehemently opposed filled her with a sense of dread.