Gemotions

The library, his sanctuary as a child, was now a distant memory. But there she was, browsing the biography section. It was Maria, her back towards him, still with that familiar curve. He hesitated, then approached. "Maria?"

She turned, her expression neutral. "Can I help you?" His mouth felt dry. "It's… Peter. We used to spend hours here, reading, pretending." She tilted her head, clearly puzzled. "I don't recall." He felt a sudden, sharp ache.

He noticed the book she was holding, one they had both read as children. He subtly slid another copy of the same book onto the shelf directly next to hers, then slipped away. He was suddenly overwhelmed with a need to escape.