Gemotions

The keys jangled as Sarah bounded up the freshly painted porch steps, the afternoon sun warming her face. She practically vibrated with anticipation. Today was the day! After weeks of paperwork and inspections, the house was finally hers. She threw open the front door, a whoop escaping her lips.

Her new home smelled of fresh paint and possibility. She inhaled deeply, a grin splitting her face. She spent the next hour racing through the rooms, flinging open windows, and imagining where she'd place her furniture. The thought of decorating, of making this house her own, sent a giddy thrill through her.

The realtor’s call cut through the silence. "Just a quick heads-up," his voice crackled over the phone, "there was a...incident here, years ago. Nothing to worry about, just a past life thing." Sarah's smile faltered, her energy momentarily stilled. Her mind struggled to comprehend what he had said.