Gemotions

The auctioneer’s gavel fell, signaling the end of the sale. Liam, his face tight with barely suppressed anger, watched as his sister, Maya, walked away with their father’s prized guitar, a magnificent instrument. Liam had been left with the family's failing bookstore, a place filled with memories of their father and their shared love of books.

He stood in the back of the store, surrounded by stacks of books. He smoothed his hand across the cover of a favorite novel. He caught the scent of old paper and ink. A quiet comfort settled over him. He knew every shelf, every corner. He pulled up a stool, and began to read.

Maya, walking away from the auction, turned to look back at the store. Liam was visible through the window, surrounded by his books. She smiled. He would be alright.