Gemotions

The realtor’s voice, chirpy and overly enthusiastic, grated on Leo's nerves. He wasn't in the mood. The closing had been a nightmare, the paperwork endless. He felt his head starting to pound again.

He feigned interest in the garden, mostly because he wanted to get away from the sales pitch. The lush green lawn offered no solace. He grimaced at the sight of the overgrown weeds, another problem to deal with. He was starting to feel a headache coming on.

He went inside, back to the house, avoiding the realtor’s gaze. In the hallway, he noticed a subtle difference in the paneling beneath the staircase. He pressed, a low click sounded, and a section of the wall popped open. He peered into the darkness, his initial reaction a flicker of annoyance.