Gemotions

The TV flickered, displaying the credits of the movie. Mark leaned back on the couch, the comfortable cushions molding to his body. The house was quiet, the only sounds the gentle hum of the refrigerator and the soft patter of rain against the window. He felt a deep sense of relaxation, a sense of belonging he hadn't experienced in years.

A sudden clatter from above made him sit up straight. His blood pressure quickened. A loud crash echoed through the otherwise still house. His comfort dissolved.

He grabbed a heavy metal crowbar. He started up the creaking staircase. The attic was a dark void.

He discovered an old wooden rocking horse in the shadows. He stared at it, curiosity piqued.