Gemotions

David blinked, the morning sun momentarily blinding. He retrieved the mail: bills, junk, and… a card. A birthday card, featuring a cartoon cat wearing a party hat. He barely recognized the handwriting. A wave of disorientation washed over him. He’d told no one his birthday. He shuffled back inside, his legs suddenly heavy.

He crumpled into a chair at the kitchen table. His coffee, forgotten, grew cold. The image of the card, the unknown sender, imprinted itself on his mind. He ran a hand through his hair, dislodging strands. The air seemed to thicken, making it hard to breathe. He stared at the card. What did it mean?