Gemotions

He found it folded inside a worn copy of "Moby Dick" – a book his wife, Clara, had loved. "Visit Machu Picchu." He looked at the words, a cold dread creeping through his veins. She’d talked about going, years ago, but they’d never made the trip. He'd always assumed it wasn't a priority.

He sank into the armchair, the book falling from his grasp. The silence of the room closed in around him. He felt as if the air had been sucked out. He stared at the list, feeling a sense of profound loss.

He stood and walked towards the window, looking out at the world as if for the last time. He wanted to understand, to somehow rewind time and make it all make sense. The world was suddenly a blur.