Gemotions

The sunlight streamed through the kitchen window, illuminating the swirling dust motes that danced in the air. Emily leaned against the counter, the list in her hand feeling heavy. Her mother, a practical nurse known for her calm demeanor, had a bucket list full of wild aspirations. “Write a novel.” “Learn to speak fluent French.” Emily huffed out a breath. This was too much.

She imagined the chaos. Her mom, attempting to write, the French verbs, it was all too much. Emily rubbed her temples, the dull ache growing stronger. Suddenly, she wanted coffee. Strong coffee. Black.