Gemotions

The realtor had said the attic was "empty." Now, staring at the assortment of forgotten treasures, Maria felt a knot tighten in her stomach. It felt as though someone was reaching out from the past.

A collection of vintage hats, perched on hat stands, stared down at her like silent observers. She wanted to scream. She took a step backwards, breathing shallowly.

A cobweb brushed against her cheek. She flinched, her eyes darting around the space. Her pulse quickened. There had to be a way out of here.

Her gaze landed on a small, leather-bound journal. Maria reached for it slowly, as if approaching a wild animal.