Gemotions

"Climb a mountain." Sarah's breath hitched as she read the words. Her mother, the adventurous spirit, the one who navigated life's challenges with such ease. Sarah felt a surge of nausea. The idea of navigating a trail, of facing a physical feat without her mother's guiding hand, made her feel faint.

She lived in her mother's house, ate her food, wore her clothes. Everything, down to the brand of tea she drank, had been chosen by her. She clutched the list, her knuckles white. It was more than a list; it was an instruction manual she could no longer read.

The words blurred. "Write a novel." Sarah closed the book, the feeling of vulnerability a physical ache in her chest. She needed someone to tell her what to do, how to proceed. She needed her mother.