Gemotions

The tiny studio apartment felt like a prison cell. Every time Chloe entered the small space, she felt the weight of it. She squeezed herself past the overflowing birdcage, its bars adorned with an array of brightly colored toys. A constant shower of seeds fell on the floor, uncleaned.

She leaned against the closed door, taking a deep breath. She could still hear the incessant chirping, the rhythmic rustle of wings. Emily had bought the bird a week ago, and now, it was like the bird was the only one who mattered.

Chloe walked past the birdcage, her steps heavy. "I don't think it's fair," she muttered under her breath, a knot forming in her stomach. Emily wasn't even home right now, and the bird was louder than ever.