Gemotions

Sarah’s breath hitched as she reached into the mailbox. Her fingers brushed against something stiff. Her stomach clenched. A thin, unfamiliar card. She pulled it out. The paper felt heavy, substantial, and the lettering was in a graceful, unfamiliar font. Happy Birthday.

She stood frozen on the porch, her eyes scanning the street, then the surrounding houses. The world seemed overly detailed, every leaf on the oak tree across the street catching her attention. An icy trickle ran down her spine. She wasn't expecting this. She knew she wasn't.

She turned and marched back inside, the door slamming shut behind her. The silence of the house was oppressive. She ripped the card open, each movement sharp, precise. The inside was blank. Nothing.