Gemotions

The print on the paper swam before his eyes. "Go skydiving." Mark’s hands began to shake uncontrollably. "Publish a novel." He felt a rising tide of heat flood his face. The list, found tucked inside his partner's favorite book, was a devastating blow.

He sat down heavily on the bed, his legs giving way. He wanted to shout, to scream, to dismantle the entire room. He closed his eyes, a desperate attempt to regain control. His chest felt constricted, making it hard to take a full breath.

He opened his eyes, staring at the list, each word a cruel reminder of unspoken desires. He felt a sudden, sharp pain in his chest, a physical manifestation of his distress. He could feel tears begin to well up.