Gemotions

The low hum of the refrigerator filled the quiet kitchen. David was preparing dinner, chopping vegetables with a practiced ease. The scent of garlic and onions sizzled in the pan, a familiar and comforting aroma. He hummed a tuneless melody as he moved, a gentle rhythm to his movements. On the kitchen counter, he noticed Emily’s notepad, the one she always used for grocery lists. It was open. He knew she was meticulously organized, but had never actually found himself looking at her notes.

He glanced at the page. "Things to Do Before I…" and then the title, "My Extraordinary Life." He began to read. "Learn to surf." "Adopt a dog." "See a Broadway show." He felt a certain fondness for the woman he called his own.

He reached over and closed the notebook. He knew Emily would have a story to tell. His hand lingered on the cover. He began to stir the sauce, the familiar smell becoming even more pleasant.