Gemotions

The air in the library felt stagnant, thick with the scent of old paper and dust. Grace had tried to lose herself in a book, but the words swam before her eyes. She’d been notified, via a curt email, that she had a half-brother.

She slammed the book shut, the sound echoing in the silent reading room. She ran her hand over the smooth cover, the gesture failing to calm her. The walls seemed to close in, the air becoming heavy. Her breath hitched. She had to leave, needed space.

She stood abruptly, pushing her chair back with a loud screech. Ignoring the disapproving glances, she rushed towards the exit, the quiet of the library suddenly unbearable. She needed to breathe.