Gemotions

The sunlight streaming through the window felt intensely bright, and the chattering of the birds outside grated on her ears. Clara leaned against the doorframe, struggling to stay upright. Her roommate, Emily, was excitedly gesturing towards a cage in the living room.

"He's perfect, Clara! A little budgie! He'll chirp and sing and make the place feel alive!" Emily exclaimed. The thought of chirping and singing felt like a personal affront. Clara just wanted to be still.

"Emily, no," she managed, her voice a croak. The sheer effort of forming the word left her breathless. "We have to talk about this." The idea of the extra mess, the constant care, felt overwhelming. Her limbs felt heavy and leaden.

Emily frowned. "But I really want him. He's adorable!" Clara sighed, wishing she could just melt into the floor. She needed quiet, she needed darkness, she needed *nothing*.