Gemotions

David, a man of routine and order, ran a hand through his hair, dislodging a puff of dust. The newly purchased Victorian house had promised charm, and so far, it had delivered. Except for this. He pulled at the ornate molding that ran along the library wall, expecting it to be glued into place. Instead, it popped out, easily.

Behind it, a narrow opening. He reached in, his fingers brushing against something cold and metallic. A heavy, iron latch. He worked at it for a few moments, the silence of the house pressing down on him. When the latch finally clicked open, he took a step back, breathing shallowly. The library had always felt like a sanctuary, but now, a subtle, disquieting sensation had taken hold of him.