Gemotions

The air in the library was still and heavy, and Maya felt a sudden need to leave. She’d found the list in a book, a worn copy of *Moby Dick* that belonged to Chloe. Her own copy. She opened it, then quickly closed it again. She wanted to throw it away, to pretend she hadn't seen it, but curiosity won out.

"Visit Japan." Maya had always wanted to go to Japan. The thought brought an unexpected sting to her eyes.

She forced herself to continue. "Learn to play chess." "Write a book of poetry." She wasn't an idiot. She knew Chloe. What was all of this?

The silence of the library pressed in on her. She felt a growing sense of vulnerability, as if she were standing naked in a crowded room. She began to sweat and rose to her feet.