Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windowpane, mirroring the turmoil within Elias. The bucket list, discovered tucked into his mother's knitting basket, felt heavy in his hands. He'd thought he was doing okay, but each entry was a fresh stab. "Visit the Redwood Forest." He pressed his fingers against his temples, trying to ward off the throbbing headache that had started.

He poured himself a generous measure of whiskey, the amber liquid doing little to soothe the growing unease. He reread, "Learn to speak Italian." Why hadn't she ever mentioned this? A lump formed in his throat, making it difficult to swallow.

He wandered into the living room, the flickering fireplace doing little to warm the cold, empty space. He felt the sting of tears behind his eyes. He sat down, the list falling from his numb fingers.