Gemotions

From the moment Emily's roommate, Sarah, had proposed a hamster, a sense of unease settled over the apartment. It was a constant presence, a phantom limb that tingled with anticipation. Emily, a creature of habit, felt this change intensely.

She moved through the apartment like a sentry, eyes constantly sweeping. She’d meticulously arranged the furniture to ensure clear lines of sight. She was always on edge, bracing herself for what seemed inevitable.

She checked the door lock three times before sitting down on the sofa. Each creak, each rustle, amplified in the sudden silence.

Sarah appeared in the doorway, a small box clutched in her hands. Her smile was innocent, almost naive. Emily's pulse leaped.