Gemotions

He had found the list taped to the back of a photograph. The picture showed his mother, smiling brightly. He felt a physical ache in his chest, a tight knot. The list was a stark reminder of what he had lost.

*Walk the Camino de Santiago.* He let out a small, involuntary gasp. He'd never known her to express any desire for such an activity. He felt a hot flush creep up his neck.

*Learn to knit.* A sudden, sharp pain flared in his stomach. He wasn’t sure he could breathe. His vision was blurring.

*Be happy.* The last words seemed to echo in the silent apartment. He had to get out.