Gemotions

Leo whistled a jaunty tune, oblivious to the oppressive atmosphere. He strode through the living room, flipping switches and peering into the dark corners. "Grandma kept everything," he muttered happily, his voice echoing in the stillness.

Suddenly, a floorboard creaked directly behind him. He spun around, a smile instantly vanishing from his face. No one. Just the long, empty hallway, stretching into darkness.

His pulse quickened. He imagined things, always had. He told himself it was just the wind. Still, he took a step back, then another. He had to be imagining it. This was silly.

Leo cleared his throat, trying to regain his composure. "Hello?" His voice, however, betrayed his growing uncertainty. He felt like he was being watched.