Gemotions

The chipped teacup rattled in Emily’s hands as she poured herself another cup of lukewarm tea. The world felt muted, as if someone had turned down the volume. She hadn’t been out of the house in days. The thought of facing anyone, doing anything, filled her with a profound sense of inertia.

She started going through her late grandmother's belongings today, pushing herself toward the inevitable. She discovered a small, weathered journal tucked inside a vintage suitcase. The first page read: “Before I go…” The list was a collection of things—big and small—her grandmother hoped to experience.

Her eyes welled up with unshed tears. She closed her eyes.