Gemotions

My chest felt like it was being squeezed. The thought of a cat, a *fluffy, shedding cat*, was a tidal wave threatening to drown me. I gripped the countertop, nails digging into the cool granite. "But… the hair," I stammered, my voice barely audible. "And the smell?" Liam just grinned, already picturing himself cradling a tiny ball of fur. He'd always loved animals. I, on the other hand, was overwhelmed by the potential mess, the responsibility, the… *claws.*

My mind raced. We'd just signed the lease! We were supposed to be responsible adults, maintaining a clean, *orderly* apartment. He was already researching breeds, pointing at pictures of Persians with those ridiculous, fluffy faces. I felt a prickle of sweat start at my hairline. I needed a distraction, something to pull me away from this impending doom. I quickly started on the dishes.

I glanced over at him, his face alight with excitement. The thought of that fluffy, furry thing just seemed to tighten my gut even further.