Gemotions

The rhythmic thump of Leo’s foot against the couch pulsed in Sarah's ears as she stared at the email. It was from the landlord, reminding them of the no-pets clause in their lease. Leo, oblivious, continued his repetitive drumming, his excitement about the potential new roommate, a fluffy Persian cat, radiating outwards like heat.

Her palms began to sweat. The rent was already a struggle. Would the cat scratch the furniture? Would they have to pay a penalty? Her breath hitched. The thought of losing the apartment, of being evicted, was a suffocating pressure.

"He'll be so good for morale," Leo said, his voice full of warmth. He was gazing at the cat adoption website on his laptop. The image of the fluffy animal made Sarah's chest feel constricted. She forced a smile. "That’s… great."