Gemotions

The tiny, cramped apartment felt like it was closing in. Rain hammered against the window, mirroring the frantic pounding in Liam’s chest. He stared at the list, his partner, Mark’s, bucket list. Top of the list: "Learn to surf in Bali." He’d always assumed Mark was happy, content even, with their quiet life. He had been planning a surprise anniversary dinner. Now, his stomach churned.

He reread the neat handwriting, each item a stab of guilt. “Write a novel.” “See the Northern Lights.” “Build a treehouse.” Liam crumpled the paper, the sound a sharp crack in the silence. He kicked at a stray sock, sending it skittering under the sofa. The dinner was off. This was all too much.

Liam ran a hand through his hair, tugging at the strands. He grabbed his coat, needing to escape the suffocating four walls. He slammed the door, the force of it a physical release of the pressure building inside. He had to think. Or, at least, he had to try.