Gemotions

The card was cream-colored, with a generic floral print. No name, no return address. Just a cheerful "Happy Birthday!" plastered across the front. He examined it, turning it over and over in his hands. A slight tremor ran through him.

He stepped back inside, the slam of the door echoing in the otherwise silent house. The mailbox was usually filled with junk mail. This felt different, deliberate. He locked the deadbolt, then the chain.

He moved to the window, peering out at the street. The afternoon sun cast long shadows, making it difficult to discern faces. He couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. He checked all the windows, securing the locks.