Gemotions

The flickering candlelight cast dancing shadows on the walls of the small cottage. He sat cross-legged on the floor, the list spread before him. “Climb Mount Kilimanjaro.” “Learn to surf.” He had no idea. He’d been so focused on his own life, his own worries.

He felt a profound sense of guilt, a heavy weight that settled in his chest. He ran a hand through his beard, his fingers tracing the shape of his jaw. He’d discovered the list during a search through her personal belongings. He remembered her, the way her eyes would light up when she talked about her adventures.

He closed his eyes, picturing her climbing. He felt a desperate urge to feel her beside him, not just in his memory. The fire crackled, and he drew a deep breath, fighting back the rising tide.