Gemotions

The apartment felt smaller than usual, the walls seemingly closing in around Leo. He sat on the worn couch, legs pulled up to his chest, arms wrapped tightly around his knees. Across the coffee table, Maya bounced on the balls of her feet, her excitement radiating heat. "Imagine, Leo! A fluffy ball of joy!" she exclaimed, waving a picture of a golden retriever puppy. Leo swallowed, the lump in his throat making it hard to breathe. He wanted to shout, to scream, but the words wouldn't come. He just stared at the floorboards, feeling as if they were slowly sinking beneath him.

"It’ll be great for you, you know," Maya continued, her voice softening. "You’ve been a bit… quiet lately."

He forced a smile, a tight, brittle thing that didn't reach his eyes. He imagined the endless walks, the responsibility, the constant presence. He felt his chest tighten, a physical ache spreading outwards. He mumbled an agreement, his voice barely audible, the silence a heavy blanket settling over them. He felt a sudden, desperate urge to flee.