Gemotions

The day had unfolded perfectly. Maria had baked a batch of chocolate chip cookies, and the house smelled divine. Dinner was simmering on the stove, a slow-cooked stew, perfect for the evening ahead with her girlfriend, Chloe. She switched on some music and began dancing in the kitchen as she waited.

The landline phone, usually silent, chimed. Maria skipped over to answer it, assuming it was Chloe. The voice was male, unfamiliar. He asked for Chloe, his tone low and conspiratorial. Maria felt a prickle of unease.

“She’s…busy,” Maria said, her smile faltering. The man on the other end chuckled, a sound that grated on her nerves. The call ended. Maria, though she tried to ignore it, felt a seed of doubt blooming in the pit of her stomach. She turned off the music. The house felt less welcoming now.