Gemotions

"A happy birthday!" The words on the card were in a child's handwriting. John didn't know a child who knew his birthday. He paused, a strange feeling creeping over him. The envelope was plain, the paper cheap.

He took a step back, the hairs on his arms standing up. He had the unsettling thought that someone was playing some kind of game. He scrutinized the card, checking for any identifying marks. Nothing. He wanted to get rid of it.

He ripped the card open, and scanned the blank inside. The lack of context made it worse. He looked around the neighborhood. Everything seemed peaceful. But a cold sweat had started to develop. He found himself looking over his shoulder.