Gemotions

The relentless tick of the clock in the living room echoed in his skull, each second a hammer blow. He let out a long exhale, wishing he had the courage to just lie down. He knew Sophia was at her dance class, a beacon of energy and enthusiasm.

The list, tucked inside her favorite novel, felt like a secret weapon. He sat, cross legged on the bed and slowly unfolded it. “Travel through Southeast Asia,” it said. Asia? She was afraid of flying.

He read on. “Write a song,” “Learn to cook Indian food,” “Run a marathon.” Each entry felt like a taunt. A wave of something akin to sadness washed over him.