Gemotions

The neighbor’s overly friendly greeting was a needle prick. "Oh, isn't it wonderful you got the old Carter place? Such a good price, considering…" She trailed off, her eyes flicking toward the house. Amelia's face tightened. She just wanted to be left alone.

She forced a smile, but it felt brittle, unnatural. The woman's casual mention of the murder, the gossip, it was like a stain on the air. She wanted to yell at her.

Back inside, she slammed the door. She went to the kitchen and slammed the faucet handle hard. Nothing could wash away the lingering sense of violation, the feeling that her safe haven had been invaded.