Gemotions

Sarah sank onto the sofa, the crisp white paper of the bucket list crinkling in her grasp. Each item was a challenge, a vibrant splash of color against the drab canvas of her own life. “Run a marathon.” “Learn to speak Italian fluently.” “Volunteer at an animal shelter.” Her partner, Emily, had never mentioned any of this.

Her breath hitched in her throat. The apartment, once a haven of shared meals and quiet evenings, now felt alien, the furniture mocking her with its stillness. She felt a deep, heavy feeling in her chest. She reached for the remote, finding herself unable to focus on anything.

Sarah flicked through the channels, the images blurring into a meaningless stream. Her eyes burned, but no tears fell. Emily’s list felt like a mountain she could never hope to climb. She needed air.