Gemotions

He’d been having a good day, or at least, a neutral one. That was before the card. Now, John was pacing the length of his living room, the unsigned greeting clutched in his sweaty palm. His birthday was months away. He knew it wasn’t for him. But still, the unsettling intrusion was enough to put him on edge.

He rubbed his temples, trying to dispel the sudden headache that had bloomed behind his eyes. He should throw it away, ignore it. But he couldn't. It felt too dangerous, leaving it there, a silent, unacknowledged message. He reached for his phone, then hesitated. Who would he call? The police? About a birthday card?

He decided to go for a run, maybe that would clear his head. As he jogged, he found himself looking over his shoulder constantly, checking shadows, listening for the slightest sound. The familiar scenery of his neighborhood now seemed menacing, each tree a potential hiding place. He quickened his pace, the fear growing in his chest with every step.