Gemotions

The list was tucked inside a copy of a book they'd read together, a well-worn novel by a favourite author. Maya found it while searching for a bookmark. "Run a marathon." "Learn to play the piano." "Fall in love with someone who isn't me." The last one, scribbled in bold letters, hit her like a physical blow.

She stood frozen, the book clutched tightly in her hand. The words swam before her eyes.

Hours later, the house was silent. The evening meal remained untouched. Each shadow seemed to mock her, repeating the sentence she couldn't escape.