Gemotions

The list was tucked inside a worn copy of *One Hundred Years of Solitude*, a book Maya always loved. David stared at the neat handwriting, his jaw clenched. He felt a strange pressure building behind his eyes.

"Ride a hot air balloon." "Volunteer at an animal shelter." "Find someone who deserves all my love." He swallowed hard. The last item, written in bold letters, was a gut punch: "Move on." His heart began to hammer against his ribs.

He slammed the book shut, the sound echoing in the silent room. He paced, back and forth, unable to settle. A strange buzzing filled his ears. His hands were shaking so badly he had to sit down. He felt a hollowness, a gaping void within him.