Gemotions

A tremor ran through Amelia as Liam bounced into the kitchen, a cardboard box clutched to his chest. Her heart hammered against her ribs as she watched him. He was beaming, overflowing with some secret joy, and she already knew. A pet. They’d talked about it, of course, a casual mention here and there, but she'd assumed it was just talk. Now, the reality was here, tangible, a potential disaster unfolding before her very eyes.

She busied herself with the dishes, her hands moving too quickly, the clatter of plates echoing in the suddenly small space. "What's in the box?" she asked, her voice tight, trying to sound casual, feigning interest.

Liam’s smile widened. “Meet Mr. Snuggles! A hamster!” He carefully set the box down, and Amelia’s stomach twisted. The apartment was already barely big enough for them.

The thought of an extra living being, dependent on them, sharing their air, their space, was overwhelming. She focused on the grime on the plate to avoid his eager gaze.