Gemotions

The crisp air of the bookstore felt like a slap. Elias, fresh from receiving the email, wandered the aisles, searching for his own novel, which he knew he'd never see. He wasn't particularly looking for any particular book; he was simply moving, a ghost of a customer.

He picked up a book, turned it over, and read the back cover. Then, he placed it back on the shelf. The smooth cover felt cold against his skin, like it would feel cold forever.

Eventually, he left the bookstore without buying anything. The setting sun cast long shadows, but he didn't adjust his gait, not even to avoid them.