Gemotions

Rain lashed against the window, mirroring the tempest within Clara. She shoved the list across the kitchen table. "Swim with dolphins?" Her voice was a low growl. The words felt like an accusation. Her father’s handwriting, usually so neat, looked almost frantic on the page.

He'd been gone six months, and the world seemed determined to keep reminding her. This silly list – a testament to a life unlived – was just the latest blow. She pictured him, always so careful, so grounded. He'd never even mentioned any of this. The betrayal felt sharp, like a shard of ice in her chest.

She stood abruptly, pushing back her chair with a screech that echoed in the empty room. She needed air. Her hands trembled as she reached for her coat, the fabric suddenly feeling coarse and irritating against her skin.