Gemotions

The old records store was a sanctuary for Elias, a place to lose himself in the familiar crackle and pop of vinyl. But even here, the walls seemed to be closing in on him. He felt suffocated by the accumulated history. He felt exposed, naked.

He was browsing the used bins, trying to find solace. Then, a familiar melody, played over the shop’s speakers, reached his ears. "Midnight Train," a song he hadn't written but that he had secretly taken credit for.

He froze, his face burning. He felt a sudden, urgent need to vanish. He grabbed the nearest record and fled the store, hearing his song follow him.