Gemotions

Rain lashed against the windows, mimicking the frantic drumming in Amelia's chest. She clutched the birthday card, its crisp edges a stark contrast to the damp, forgotten flyers that usually littered her mailbox. No name. Just a generic floral design and a generic, cheerful message inside. A chill snaked up her spine, despite the warmth of her kitchen. She’d been dreading this day; she could feel it in the pit of her stomach all morning.

She glanced at the date on the card - today. Her birthday. A wave of nausea rolled through her. She dropped the card onto the counter, the floral design now staring up at her. Her hand automatically went to her throat, as if to make sure she could still breathe.

Her phone buzzed. A birthday message from her sister. She quickly read it, then quickly replied. She felt...exposed. The silence of the apartment seemed to amplify every creak and groan of the building. She locked the deadbolt, just to be sure.