Gemotions

He’d been avoiding the mail all week. Emptying the mailbox was the last thing on Liam’s list. The stack of envelopes felt heavy in his hand, a burden. He sifted through the usual bills and flyers, his pulse quickening. Then he saw it: a brightly colored card with a generic floral design. No name on the front, only his address.

His hands shook as he ripped the card open, the paper tearing slightly. Inside, printed in fancy script, was a birthday wish. A wave of unease washed over him. He knew better than to be taken by this. He slammed the mailbox door shut, the metal echoing loudly in the deserted street.

He backed away, his gaze sweeping the block, looking for something — anything — out of place. Had someone been watching him? His palms were sweating. He hurried towards his front door.