Gemotions

The small, handwritten list was taped to the inside of the cupboard where she kept her spices. A treasure map of untold secrets. He began to read, his eyes moving quickly. “Learn to paint.” He'd given her paints for her birthday, but they sat untouched in the corner of her office. “Go on a silent retreat.” He rolled his eyes. He had never even heard of such a thing.

A wave of frustration washed over him. He felt like he was missing something. He realized how little he knew about her desires, how she was a puzzle he hadn't yet tried to solve. He didn't like the feeling.

He slammed the cupboard door shut. He grabbed his coat, heading out for a walk. The sky was the color of bruised plums. He thought about her list.