Gemotions

“Bucket List – Before I Get Old.” Chloe stared at the words, her breath catching in her throat. The list was tucked inside of a book of poetry that he cherished. The first item, underlined twice: “Sing on a stage.” The second: “Write and direct a play.” She felt a wash of heat flood her cheeks. He’d always pretended to be happy doing the Karaoke at their local pub.

She thought of the years they’d spent building a life together, a life that apparently hadn’t been enough.

She carefully put the book back on the shelf, the gesture deliberate. She grabbed her keys, a sudden, urgent need for air filling her.