Gemotions

The envelope felt heavy in her hands, as if it contained not just paper but the accumulated weight of unspoken secrets. She sank onto the sofa, the plush cushions offering no comfort. The first item: *“Swim with sharks.”* She squeezed her eyes shut. She never knew this person.

A cold sweat broke out on her forehead. *“Write a novel.”* This wasn’t fair. This was a conspiracy, a prank. The room spun slightly. She felt a tightening in her chest, a squeezing sensation that threatened to suffocate her.

She ripped the envelope open, scattering the list across the rug. *“Climb Mount Kilimanjaro.”* She gasped, the air catching in her throat. She needed a drink. She needed to breathe. She was going to be sick.