Gemotions

The vet’s pamphlet sat on the kitchen counter, a stark, unwelcome reminder. Oliver felt his stomach churn. His roommate, Finn, wanted a guinea pig. He'd never felt so unsettled.

The image of a tiny cage, a fragile life, filled his mind. He envisioned sleepless nights worrying, of constant vigilance. The sheer *frailty* of it all made him ache. He ran a hand through his hair, a nervous gesture.

Finn was already excitedly planning the purchase. Oliver felt a wave of dizziness wash over him. He felt trapped, cornered. The world seemed to be closing in around him. He needed to disappear.

He excused himself, making a weak excuse about needing fresh air, and left the apartment, the pamphlet still staring at him.