Gemotions

The doorbell rang, a brittle sound that grated on David's nerves. He shuffled to the door, expecting a delivery. Instead, the small white card sat on the welcome mat. A birthday greeting. No name. He picked it up gingerly, the paper thin beneath his fingers.

He retreated inside, the weight of the day pressing down on him. The house felt too big, the silence too profound. He ran a hand through his hair, the gesture conveying a weariness that went beyond physical.

He considered making himself something to eat but found he couldn't even bring himself to open the refrigerator. Instead, he just sat, staring blankly out the window, the unsigned card clutched in his hand.