Gemotions

The library, once a haven, felt constricting. Thomas, arms crossed, watched his son, Ben, navigate the towering bookshelves. Ben devoured books with an enthusiasm that both fascinated and dismayed Thomas. He’d passed on his love of reading to Ben, but now, it felt like his own passion had been eclipsed.

Ben knew more about literary history than Thomas did. He recited quotes, debated authors, and devoured entire series in days. Thomas found himself struggling to keep up, his own reading pace slowing. He felt the sting of inadequacy.

“Dad, have you read this new biography on Dickens? It’s amazing!” Ben beamed, holding up a thick volume. Thomas offered a weak smile, wishing he hadn't asked the question. “No,” he admitted. He wandered away, the silence in the library amplified the sound of his own thoughts.