Gemotions

The cake, a magnificent creation of chocolate and frosting, sat abandoned on the kitchen table. Its perfectly frosted surface seemed to mock him. He stared at it, the elaborate decorations suddenly grotesque, the sugary sweetness cloying.

He ran his hand through his hair, pacing the living room, listening for any sign of movement, any indication that he wasn't alone. He hadn't seen anyone all day, he’d received no calls or texts. He felt like he was being watched, even though he was certain that he was the only one in the house.

He walked over to the door and carefully, cautiously, unlocked it and looked through the peephole. Nothing. The street was empty. He felt his chest tighten, his breath come in shallow gasps. He leaned against the door, suddenly, overwhelmingly, tired.