Gemotions

Rain hammered against the windowpane, mirroring the relentless drumming in Ethan's head. He slumped onto the sofa, the remote control a useless weight in his hand. Everything seemed muted, dull, as if the colors had been drained from the world. He'd stumbled upon Maya’s list while tidying up their shared desk. Tucked away amongst bills and receipts, it was a crumpled piece of paper covered in elaborate calligraphy.

“See the Northern Lights.” The first item leaped out, a stark contrast to his evenings spent slumped in front of the television. “Write a novel.” Another stab of recognition, of a dream he knew had been buried under a career she did not enjoy. He read on, each entry a testament to a life brimming with passion, with adventures he had never been privy to.

He ran a hand through his hair, a wave of sadness washing over him. Their conversations had become transactional, focused on logistics and everyday problems. He wondered how he could make her smile again, and if he could be the man to do it. The list was a haunting reminder of the life they weren't living, of the vibrant person he'd let fade away, alongside himself.