Gemotions

Rain lashed against the window of Leo's apartment as he settled into the worn armchair. He’d just cracked open his new acquisition: "The Secret Garden." A small, folded note, yellowed with age, slid from between the pages. A chill snaked up his spine.

He unfolded it gingerly. The handwriting was elegant, almost too perfect. It spoke of a betrayal, a hiding place, and a promise of revenge. He felt a prickle of unease on the back of his neck.

Leo slammed the book shut, the sound echoing in the silent room. He should just throw the letter away. But his curiosity, a troublesome thing, wouldn’t let him. His hands trembled as he reread the words.