Gemotions

The library was quiet, the hushed atmosphere a balm to Marcus's frayed nerves. He settled into a comfortable armchair, surrounded by towering bookshelves, and opened his book. The weight of his responsibilities seemed to dissolve, replaced by a sense of calm. He exhaled slowly.

He saw her in the next aisle, browsing the poetry section. It was Sophia, the girl who used to read him bedtime stories under the covers, who was the first person to teach him about Emily Dickinson. He found it difficult to breathe, all of a sudden.

He watched her carefully for a few minutes. She turned towards him, and their eyes met. She offered a cursory glance, and smiled. He realized, with a shock, that she had no idea who he was. The weight came back, pressing down on him.