Gemotions

The last rays of the sun cast long shadows as she opened the attic door. A wave of cold air washed over her, raising goosebumps on her arms. It wasn't the temperature; it was something else, a feeling of unease that settled deep in her bones. She went to inspect, following her husband’s request.

A sense of claustrophobia began to build as she stepped inside. The attic was filled with forgotten things. A rusted trunk sat in the center of the room. He felt a desire to investigate. She knelt down, the light from her phone creating a tight circle in the gloom.

As she reached to open it, she heard a scratching sound coming from inside. She froze, her breath catching in her throat. She slowly pulled back the lid. Inside, she saw only darkness and a single, withered rose. She slammed the lid shut, her hands trembling. She rose and fled, never to look back.