Gemotions

The familiar scent of old books and dust filled the air of Maria's apartment. She sat in her favorite armchair, surrounded by stacks of well-loved volumes. The soft glow of the reading lamp cast a warm pool of light around her. She ran her hand over the worn cover of the book in her lap.

Outside, the city rumbled, but within the walls, silence reigned.

Her computer chimed, announcing a new email. She glanced at the screen, a message about a building meeting. She smiled and decided to brew another pot of tea. The book was far more important.