Gemotions

The chipped mug trembled in Leo's hand, almost spilling the lukewarm tea. He watched Marco pace the small living room, a whirlwind of nervous energy. “Think of the cuddles, Leo! The companionship!” Marco’s voice, normally a smooth baritone, cracked with an unusual enthusiasm. Leo swallowed hard, the tea suddenly tasting like metal. A pet. The thought of a creature, dependent on them, in their already cramped space… It caused a tightness in his chest.

His gaze flickered to the closed bedroom door, as if the very idea of a new presence could seep beneath the wood and invade his sanctuary. He took a long, shallow breath, trying to calm the jittery feeling crawling up his spine. "Maybe later, Marco," he managed, his voice barely a whisper. Marco stopped pacing, his face falling, and the silence that followed felt heavy, oppressive.