Gemotions

The aroma of coffee, usually a comfort, now felt like a taunt. Liam sat at the kitchen table, head resting on his folded arms. The newspaper lay unread before him. His roommate, Mark, was practically vibrating with excitement.

"Look at this kitten!" Mark exclaimed, holding up a fluffy, orange creature. Liam just wanted to disappear. The idea of all the extra responsibility, the incessant demands for attention, it felt crushing.

"It's just... a lot, Mark," he said, his voice a low monotone. He could barely muster the energy to lift his head, never mind discuss animal ownership. He blinked slowly, fighting the urge to surrender to the overwhelming pull of oblivion.

"Come on, Liam," Mark pleaded. "It'll be fun!" Liam managed a weak shrug, wishing the world would just fade into quiet darkness. The thought of cleaning a litter box was almost enough to make him cry.