Gemotions

The hum of the refrigerator was the only sound in the quiet kitchen. Jake stood by the counter, holding the small, handwritten list. He felt no sense of urgency. It was his wife, Emily's, and he'd discovered it while tidying up her desk. "Learn to paint. Start a garden. See a concert."

He ran his thumb over the paper, studying each item. He read through it multiple times, each read bringing a new feeling. He felt a sense of reverence, an honoring of her innermost desires. He felt no anxiety, just an acceptance. He thought about the things he could do to support her, how he could help bring those dreams to life. He took a deep breath, exhaling slowly. He would take his time and make sure he understood.