Gemotions

The new house felt good. The air smelled of fresh wood and sunshine. The first day had been spent unpacking the kitchen, setting up the bedroom, and planting a few herbs in the garden. She now stood in the living room, watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and purple.

She loved the quiet. She took another long look at the bookshelves, which were all but filled. Her hand traced the edge of the wood trim, feeling the gentle contours.

In the hallway, she noticed a faint draft emanating from a wall panel near the stairs. On closer inspection, the panel was subtly different from the others. A light push revealed a hidden door, opening onto a narrow flight of stairs. She descended into the darkness.