Gemotions

"Hello?" Sarah called out. She clutched the paperback closer, as if the cover could offer protection. It was late, and she was alone in her creaking house. The letter, discovered in a library copy of *The Secret Garden*, had detailed instructions and a specific time. A time that was now rapidly approaching.

She peered out the window, every rustle of leaves, every flicker of a shadow, a potential threat. Her heart felt like a trapped bird, beating against her ribs.

She backed away from the window, her gaze sweeping across the room. Everything seemed menacing, the familiar furniture now alien. She thought of her escape. Where would she go? The letter's words burned in her mind, a haunting reminder of the secrets it held. She went to the back door, and quickly locked it, her gaze darting around the room, not wanting to see anything.