Gemotions

The card was tucked between the bills and junk mail. A simple “Happy Birthday” written in elegant, flowing calligraphy. Emily’s gaze lingered on the unfamiliar handwriting, her body feeling lighter. She closed the door and leaned against it, the envelope crushed against her chest.

Her cheeks felt warm. She walked into the kitchen and made a cup of tea, the clinking of the mug and spoon a counterpoint to the quiet hammering in her ears. The smell of bergamot filled the air, but she couldn’t focus. The unknown sender and the gesture of the card had her in a spin.

She looked down at her hands, which shook ever so slightly. She didn’t want to know who sent the card, or rather, she did. She moved closer to the window, the soft light caressing her skin. She allowed her fingers to dance across her skin, a smile on her lips.