Gemotions

The pet store buzzed with excitement, but for David, it was more like a cacophony. He trailed behind Olivia, who was already enamored with a fluffy Persian cat. The prospect of cat hair on everything, the frequent vet visits, and the unpredictable nature of the animal filled him with apprehension.

He ran a hand through his hair. Olivia was already talking about names, food, and grooming. He could feel a headache coming on. Their quiet, orderly life was about to be turned upside down, he felt.

"It just seems like a huge expense, Olivia," he said, trying to inject some reason into the conversation. He had a perfectly good routine that he treasured.

Olivia's face fell, and she turned to look at him, a flicker of disappointment in her eyes. The cat, oblivious, continued to preen.