Gemotions

The scent of cedar and old paper filled Michael’s nostrils as he sat at the kitchen table, the list spread out before him. His father, a man of routine and comfort, had kept his dreams hidden well. “Learn to surf. Go skydiving. See the Northern Lights.” Each item was a surprise.

He snorted quietly as he read the entry: "Try a spicy curry and survive." His dad’s culinary adventurousness had peaked at adding black pepper to his scrambled eggs. Michael could almost hear his father's hesitant voice describing the experience. His shoulders shook lightly.

A small smile played on his lips as he made a mental note to look up surfing lessons.