Gemotions

The small, folded piece of paper held a list of the most unexpected ambitions. “Learn to speak Swahili.” “Visit Antarctica.” “Become a chef.” The words, written in Oliver's handwriting, struck Eleanor with an invisible blow.

She re-read the list, a tremor running through her. The comfortable familiarity of their life together seemed to dissolve. She crossed her arms, a chill spreading through her even though the room was warm.

She felt a wave of dizziness, as if the ground beneath her had suddenly shifted. She sank into a chair, her eyes fixed on the paper, trying to reconcile the man she knew with the person revealed on this list.