I GOT SERIOUSLY ILL OUT OF NOWHERE

from the closet. Papers scattered across the bed. My old jewelry box lies open on the floor, the velvet compartments empty.

I stumble back, heart pounding. Someone has been going through my things.

I clutch the doorway, trying to breathe. Who? Why?

Then I hear it.

Keys in the front door.

My heart leaps into my throat.

The door creaks open, and footsteps continue reading …