Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the apartment, a scent that typically lifted Anya's spirits. Today, however, it only amplified the hollowness she felt. Liam, her roommate, was engrossed in his work. He’d barely looked up when she’d brought up the topic of getting a pet again.

Anya closed her eyes, picturing a fluffy Persian cat, curled up at the foot of her bed. She imagined the soft weight of it against her legs, the gentle purr. She remembered the feeling of petting her cousin’s rabbits, the gentle softness of their fur.

She walked towards the window, the image of that cuddly cat vividly dancing in her mind. Her gaze was drawn to the lively park across the street, where people walked their playful dogs. She couldn't shake the deep ache in her heart.