Gemotions

The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the living room as James sat on the sofa. He stared at his partner’s bucket list, which he had discovered tucked inside a book about birds. *Volunteer at an animal shelter. Learn to paint. Visit every national park.* He felt the beginning of a chill across his skin, a stark contrast to the warmth of the day.

He wanted to scream. He wanted to rage. He wanted to understand why. Every item felt like a betrayal. He was furious that he wasn't included.

He turned away from the list, the words burned into his memory. He felt a profound sense of loss, a chasm opening between them.