Gemotions

The card was tucked in amongst the usual clutter in the mailbox. He was expecting nothing out of the ordinary, his mood already low after a rough day. The sight of it sent a jolt of alarm through him. He almost dropped the rest of the mail.

He retreated inside, his pace quickening. The air in his apartment felt thick, heavy. He went through and locked every door and window, the familiar routine offering little comfort. He could feel his heart hammering in his chest.

He stood in the middle of the living room, the unopened card clutched in his sweaty hand. He stared at it, the blood draining from his face. The colorful design seemed to mock him. He wished he'd never seen it.