Gemotions

The mail felt heavy in her hand. She hadn't been expecting anything, not even bills. But there it was, an unsolicited birthday card, colourful and cheerful, tucked amongst the usual drab paperwork. A wave of unease rippled through her. She felt exposed, as if someone was watching her.

She retreated inside, quickly locking the deadbolt on the door. Her hands fumbled with the clasp, her fingers clumsy and unresponsive. The card remained clutched in her hand. She stared at it, her gaze fixed on the blank space where a signature should be.

She checked the locks on the windows, a habit she'd abandoned years ago. The house seemed to shrink around her, the familiar sounds of the refrigerator and the ticking clock now filled with an ominous quality. She wanted to call someone, anyone, but the idea of speaking, of explaining, seemed too difficult.