Gemotions

David, a collector, purchased an old copy of "Moby Dick." As he opened the book to inspect its condition, a small, tightly folded note fell into his lap. He felt a knot tighten in his gut.

The letter contained a series of coded messages, cryptic and chilling. The sense of foreboding tightened with each line. He could feel the blood drain from his face.

He abruptly closed the book. He took a few deep breaths, but the unease wouldn't subside. He needed to be alone, to process this. He felt a prickling heat crawling up his neck.