Gemotions

The humid air of the Florida coast, usually a comfort, felt oppressive as Olivia sat on the balcony, the bucket list clutched in her hand. Her father had always loved the sea. His list was full of adventure: "Scuba dive the Great Barrier Reef." "Sail around the world." "Embrace every moment."

She hated the life she'd built. The successful career, the perfect apartment, the hollow relationships. The world felt muffled, distant, and she felt like a visitor to her own existence.

The crashing waves seemed to mock her from below. She felt a sharp, bitter pang. This was the life he had wanted, and yet, she sat paralyzed by her own fear.