Gemotions

Her breath hitched as she faced the cold silence that followed Ben’s declaration. He didn't say much; his disapproval was evident in the way he had folded his arms, the slight downturn of his lips. The thought of getting a gerbil, her heart's desire, felt crushed.

“A gerbil? In here, Maya?” Ben had only needed that one question, and the dream had shattered. She’d imagined the tiny paws, the frantic digging, the soft, chittering sounds, the happy face, a comfort in her life. Now, all that was left was an awful ache.

The room seemed to spin, and she felt a wave of cold rush through her. She clutched at the edge of the table, her knuckles white. She had to get away, to breathe. "I… I need to run," she mumbled, her voice catching in her throat. She gathered her things, her movements frantic, and escaped into the world.