Gemotions

The renovation project was the first sign. Then came the discreet inquiries about local art dealers. Finally, the auction catalogue arrived in the mail, addressed to "Mr. and Mrs. Peterson." Claire's breath caught in her throat. Her neighbor, Mr. Peterson, was a quiet, unassuming man. He always wore the same sweater and had a kindly, weathered face. He loved his dog, and always gave her children lollipops on Halloween.

The catalogue displayed a priceless collection of Impressionist paintings. Works she could only dream of seeing in a museum. She sat on her sofa, rereading the description of the items. It was like a dream, yet all too real.

She watched, through the lace curtains, as the moving van arrived, carrying the paintings. The world around her seemed to tilt. She felt almost… faint.