Gemotions

The pristine white paper held a series of handwritten desires. "Build a treehouse." "Learn to surf." "Adopt a dog." Daniel's gaze was fixed on the page, a slow burn starting in his gut. The list, belonging to his partner, Liam, revealed a side of him he'd never encountered.

He sat at the kitchen table, feeling as if someone had punched the wind out of him. The usual cheerful chatter of the city outside seemed to fade. A sense of displacement gripped him, making him struggle to breathe.

He had believed their bond was strong, their connection deep. Now, he felt uncertain, as if he was examining a cracked mirror, seeing a fragmented reflection. He rose abruptly, needing space, needing to understand. He headed toward the door.