Gemotions

He didn't recognize the handwriting, a flamboyant scrawl that looked vaguely familiar and threatening. "Happy Birthday!" The card seemed to scream its well wishes, the bright colors grating against his frayed nerves. He quickly stuffed it into his pocket, eager to be away from its probing gaze.

He felt a tightness in his chest, a sensation that had become all too common in recent months. The streets seemed to close in around him, the buildings towering like indifferent giants. Each step was a burden. He couldn't shake the feeling of being watched.

He ducked into a dark alley, the shadows offering a temporary respite. He pulled the card out and tore it to shreds, the pieces falling to the grimy pavement. He felt a moment's, fleeting, satisfaction.