Gemotions

A tremor ran through Liam’s fingers as he unfolded the parchment. It was Sarah’s bucket list, tucked inside her favorite cookbook. “Learn to play the ukulele.” He swallowed, picturing himself, clumsy and uncoordinated, attempting to master an instrument.

He reread the words. “Hike the Pacific Crest Trail.” He felt a pang of resentment, a tiny, bitter seed blooming in his chest. His own ambitions, such as they were, seemed dwarfed by the scope of hers. He was good at his job, sure, but his days were spent at his desk, and he felt a weight settle on his shoulders.

He found himself scrutinizing his own routines. He had become a creature of habit, and his efforts lately were few. A knot twisted in his stomach. He sighed, placing the list back in the cookbook.