Gemotions

"He's perfect, isn't he?" Emily asked, her eyes shining as she looked at the guinea pig. David felt the blood drain from his face. The small, furry creature sitting in its temporary carrier, seemed to be mocking him.

He felt the walls closing in. The thought of the constant care, the potential for allergies, the smell… it was overwhelming. He looked around the apartment, imagining the changes, the loss of his carefully cultivated peace. He took a step back, as though he might escape.

"He... he is," he managed, his voice barely a whisper, though it felt as loud as a shout in his own ears. He wanted to disappear. He felt the overwhelming need to retreat.