Gemotions

The list was on the refrigerator, held in place by a magnet shaped like a heart. He almost hadn't noticed it, tucked among grocery lists and bills. But the unfamiliar handwriting, the strange phrasing… something caught his eye. He reached for it, fingers fumbling.

He read the first item: “Climb Mount Everest.” His vision blurred. He felt an intense pressure building behind his eyes. He didn't know her, not truly. He’d thought he did. He’d felt comfortable, secure.

The next entry: "Sail around the world." His breath hitched. He imagined her, alone on the vast ocean, and a wave of dizziness washed over him. The world tilted. He staggered back, leaning against the counter for support. The heart-shaped magnet seemed to mock him.