Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the breakroom seemed to hum with a malevolent energy, amplifying the disquiet settling on Chloe. She clutched her coffee mug, the ceramic cold against her clammy hands. The scent of stale coffee was not helping. She felt like she was trapped.

Across the table, Liam was enthusiastically regaling the office with stories of his summer adventures. He pointed at a faded photo on his phone – a group of kids splashing in a lake. "Camp Whispering Pines," he announced, beaming. The name struck a chord. Chloe’s blood ran cold.

Chloe had to swallow hard. A wave of nausea washed over her. She knew that lake. She knew the whispering pines. "Wow," she managed, her voice cracking slightly, "small world." The blood seemed to be rushing in her ears.