Gemotions

The musty scent of the attic was the first thing she noticed. Dust motes danced in the single shaft of sunlight piercing the gloom, illuminating a trunk she hadn’t seen in years. Inside, nestled amongst moth-eaten shawls and yellowed photographs, was a leather-bound book. Her mother’s familiar, looping handwriting was scrawled across the cover: "Bucket List - Things to Do Before…"

She felt a lightness in her chest she hadn't known in years, a lifting of the weight that had settled there after her mother's passing. She sat cross-legged, the leather cool against her skin, and began to read. First entry: "Learn to tap dance." She giggled, a surprising, unbidden sound.

Later that afternoon, she found herself clicking through online dance schools, a grin plastered on her face. Her fingers, usually clumsy on the keyboard, moved with a newfound purpose. The world suddenly felt vibrant, full of possibilities. This felt good, she thought, this felt... right.