Gemotions

The embossed invitation felt sharp against Amelia’s fingertips. She held it at arm's length, the gold lettering glinting accusingly in the afternoon sun. Reunion. Ten years. Her breath hitched. She’d barely glanced at the return address. Now, staring at the glossy paper, a prickle crawled up her spine. Every single pore seemed to open, alert to the potential threats lurking within.

She placed the invitation on the kitchen counter, backing away slowly, as though it were a venomous creature. She began to clean, scrubbing the already spotless granite with an almost manic intensity. She scowled. Dust motes danced in the sunlight, innocent but suspicious.

A sudden, sharp ping from the microwave startled her. She flinched, turning toward it with a jolt, heart hammering. Her hand hovered near the oven mitts. Who knew what horrors lay within?