Gemotions

The paper crackled under Sarah's fingers. It was crumpled and stained, the cheap ink of the handwritten list bleeding in places. *Partner’s Bucket List*, the title read. A fist clenched in her stomach. “Climb Mount Everest,” was number one. She’d been saving for a goddamn new sofa.

Her breath hitched. Number two: *Learn to play the cello*. He’d complained about her piano practice for years. Suddenly, the quiet tick of the grandfather clock in the hall became an unbearable taunt.

She slammed the list onto the kitchen table. The chipped mug on the counter rattled. He’d told her he hated surprises, so why did *he* get to have one?