Gemotions

"Ah, finally," Martha sighed contentedly, sinking into her favorite armchair. The living room was bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun, illuminating the newly arranged bookshelves and the antique Persian rug. The gentle purr of her cat, curled up at her feet, was the perfect accompaniment to her evening. She felt a sense of peace that had been absent for months.

A dull thud from the attic startled her. She blinked, her heart rate quickening slightly. She’d heard nothing like this before. She wasn’t sure if it was something she should be worried about.

Slowly, she rose from her chair. The house felt familiar and comfortable. She started moving toward the attic door. The stairs creaked softly under her weight, but she felt steady.

In the attic, among a collection of forgotten furniture, was an old cedar chest. It looked interesting.