Gemotions

The tiny notebook felt heavy in Maria's hand. Inside, her wife, Chloe, had scribbled, "Visit the Amazon." "Learn to code." "Open a bakery." The world seemed to shrink around her. Maria stood frozen, the list a cruel reminder of all the things they hadn't done, of a future she hadn't anticipated.

Her breath came in shallow, rapid pants. She clutched the notebook, her knuckles white. She found herself staring out the window at the familiar street, each house now appearing as a looming, judgmental presence.

She squeezed her eyes shut, trying to stem the rising tide of…of…something she couldn't name. The weight in her chest was unbearable. She had to get out.