Gemotions

The click of the mailbox lid closing echoed in the stillness of the early morning. David clutched the card. Sweat prickled on his palms despite the cool air. He’d been expecting something, a confrontation, a threat. The card felt like a prelude to something terrible.

He backed away from the mailbox, his eyes darting from side to side. He felt the familiar constriction in his chest. He made his way inside, fumbling with his keys. Inside, he kept all the lights on.

He stood in the middle of his living room, the unopened card in his hand. He hesitated, then ripped it open. Inside, was a glittery pop-up cake, but no message. He scanned the edges of the card, and found tiny letters written near the bottom: "Surprise!" He stared at the card. He felt foolish and relieved.