Gemotions

"The previous occupants… well, let's just say they weren't the most law-abiding folks," the police officer had said with a knowing smile. Maria shivered, despite the warmth of the late afternoon sun. The revelation – a history of drug dealing, hidden compartments, the list went on – had left her reeling. She sat on the front steps, unable to bring herself to go inside.

She twisted her hands in her lap, her knuckles white. The house, once a source of pride, now felt tainted, poisoned. She saw the shadows shift. The leaves in the trees rustled, and she jumped.

She wanted to scream. She wanted to run. She wanted to disappear. She closed her eyes. Her mouth was dry. She took a deep breath. She didn't think she would be able to stay.