Gemotions

The proposal hung in the air, heavy and unwelcome. “I'm getting a hamster,” Ethan announced, with the casual air of someone discussing the weather. His roommate, Mark, felt as if he'd been punched. The world around him seemed to dim, the vibrant colors of the living room fading to a dull gray.

He ran a hand through his hair, a gesture meant to ground him, but it only amplified his sense of disorientation. The simple act of breathing became a conscious effort, his chest constricting with a sudden wave of panic. He stared at Ethan, his mouth open, unable to find the words to respond. His mind felt like a scrambled egg.

He felt the unwelcome presence of a cold sweat forming on his brow. The very idea – the tiny cage, the incessant wheel-running, the potential for… escape – sent a shiver down his spine. The room felt smaller, the air thick and cloying.