Gemotions

“A chameleon, Maya?” David repeated, his voice barely above a whisper. He squeezed his eyes shut, trying to block out the image of the exotic creature. The thought made his head pound.

He had a report due, bills piling up, and a laundry list of chores he couldn’t seem to tackle. The idea of feeding insects, maintaining humidity levels… it was too much.

He opened his eyes, feeling a sense of panic rising. Maya, oblivious, was already researching terrarium options. He had to stop this. He had to find a way to make her see. But the words wouldn't come. He felt frozen, unable to speak, to even breathe properly.