Gemotions

The vast, echoing library seemed to close in around Sophie. Mr. Davies, the librarian, the man who knew every book in the place, who always steered her toward the right stories, was… absent. A terse sign: *Retired. The library will be closed for reorganization.* She gripped the worn spines of the books on the desk, the words blurring before her eyes. The quiet of the library felt oppressive. The air was heavy, stifling, and she struggled to draw a full breath. A tremor ran through her, leaving her feeling brittle and fragile.