Gemotions

The shadows in the basement, usually a source of amusement for the children, now seemed to lengthen and writhe. Mark felt a prickly sensation crawl up his spine, a sense of being watched. He’d learned about the previous owner’s fate – a gangland hit – just hours ago.

He found himself constantly checking the locks, peering out the windows. His wife, noticing his changed demeanor, had asked if he was alright. He had brushed her off, mumbling something about a long day at work. But the truth was, his mind was racing.

He walked through the house, his footsteps echoing in the silence. He went into the garage and got out his toolbox. He felt an irrational urge to fortify the house, to make it impenetrable.