Gemotions

He’d almost missed it, the thin, cream-colored envelope jammed in with the junk mail. Arthur pulled it out, a frown deepening his already furrowed brow. He knew his birthday wasn’t for another four months. Why would anyone send him a birthday card now? He raised an eyebrow, thinking.

The lack of any identifying mark on the envelope was the most unusual thing. Arthur usually knew who sent him the letters he got, even the bills. He tapped the card against his teeth. He considered just tossing it into the recycling bin, but something held him back.

He opened it, revealing a generic design, and the bland message. “Happy Birthday!” it said. The handwriting looked like someone trying to imitate something. He tossed it in the trash, then immediately retrieved it. He needed a better look.