Gemotions

Rain drummed a soothing rhythm against the library’s arched windows. Amelia sat snuggled in a plush velvet chair, a steaming mug of chamomile tea warming her hands. She had selected a biography of Marie Curie, its cover featuring a grainy black-and-white photograph. A light smile played on her lips as she began to read, feeling a quiet contentment settle within her.

Halfway through the second chapter, a small, folded piece of paper slipped from the pages. She paused, setting down her tea. The paper looked frail, its color hinting at decades gone by. She unfolded it, her fingers careful, as if handling something precious. A small note, written in elegant script, lay before her.