Gemotions

Rain lashed against the attic window, mirroring the storm inside Elara. She’d been avoiding the task for weeks, but the box was calling to her. Her father’s things. Things she hadn't seen in years. She pulled it from under a dusty sheet, the wood groaning in protest. Inside, nestled amongst old photographs and fishing tackle, was a leather-bound journal. It was thick with entries, most in a familiar, looping script. Then, a folded piece of paper fluttered out. A list. “Bucket List,” it read, in bold letters, beneath her father’s elegant signature. She felt a tightening in her chest, a weight she hadn't realized she was carrying.

She unfolded the paper. Item number one: "See the Northern Lights." Elara chuckled, a hollow sound. He’d always talked about that. Always.

She sank into the dusty armchair, the list trembling in her hands. Number two: "Learn to play the guitar." Number three: "Visit Italy." She hugged the list, the paper crunching in her grip. A cold ache settled in her bones.