Gemotions

The tiny, cramped apartment felt even more confining when Noah announced his intention to adopt a kitten. He was practically vibrating with excitement. Sarah sat across from him, her fingers tracing invisible patterns on the worn tabletop.

“He'll be so cute, Sarah! We can name him Mittens!” Noah practically vibrated with anticipation. Sarah, though, felt a coldness creeping up her spine, like a rising tide.

She looked around the already-crowded space, picturing the added clutter of a litter box, the constant presence of another living being. Her chest constricted. The idea of adding another layer of complexity felt overwhelming. She nodded slowly, buying herself a few more minutes to gather her thoughts before the inevitable.