Gemotions

The card was plain, cream-colored, with a single, looping “Happy Birthday” written in elegant calligraphy. Sarah’s hands trembled as she clutched it. Her coffee sat forgotten on the counter, already cold. A chill snaked up her spine, even though the morning sun streamed through the kitchen window. The envelope was blank; no return address, no name. Who knew? She hadn't told anyone it was her birthday.

She reread the message, tracing the delicate curves of the letters. The font was familiar, almost. A headache began to throb behind her eyes. She reached for her phone, intending to call her sister, but her fingers fumbled on the screen. The screen swam a little before her eyes.

She sank into a chair, the card still clutched in her hand. The silence of the house felt oppressive, each tick of the clock amplifying her unease. This was not a prank, no. It was… something else entirely. Something unsettling.