Gemotions

The package was marked "fragile," and addressed to “Ms. Beatrice Bloom.” Maria, the current tenant, sighed. This was the third package in a month. She carefully placed it on her kitchen counter, her stomach churning with unease.

She hesitated before opening it, imagining the possible contents: a delicate vase, a piece of artwork, or something else entirely. She slowly peeled away the tape and opened the box, revealing a collection of antique teacups. The thought of this other woman, this Beatrice Bloom, with her teacups, suddenly felt acutely uncomfortable, as if she was intruding on her. Maria quickly closed the box and hid it in a cabinet, wishing it would simply disappear.