Gemotions

The list was in a lipstick-stained envelope. “Ride a hot air balloon.” Sarah stared at the words, a giggle bubbling up. Her mother, flamboyant and full of life, had always dreamt big. Now, it was up to her.

She found a local balloon operator and booked a sunrise flight. As the balloon ascended, the world shrank below. The silence, punctuated only by the occasional roar of the burner, was profound. Up here, amidst the clouds, a sense of rightness settled over her. She imagined her mother’s wide grin.