Gemotions

The card was a cheerful splash of yellow and blue. A cartoon cat wearing a party hat grinned obliviously from the front. Amelia’s breath hitched as she picked it up, her fingers instantly clenching around the flimsy paper. She scanned her street, the quiet suburban houses suddenly appearing menacing. Had someone been watching her? Waiting?

Her heart hammered a frantic rhythm against her ribs. She retreated inside, slamming the door. The familiar scent of her own home offered little comfort. She locked all the doors and windows, then checked them again, her hands trembling.

She didn't know anyone who would send a card like this, not anonymously. This had to mean something, didn't it? A game? A threat? She ripped it open, tearing the envelope. Inside, a simple message: "Happy Birthday!" No name. No clue. Just a smile from a cartoon feline. Amelia felt a cold dread creep through her.