For: @hailisopen
When: 29th of April, 2023.
Where: Nooks & Crannies Bookstore.
With a graceful twist of her wrist, she inserted the key into the lock, pushing the open the door, a gentle breeze wafted in, carrying with it the intoxicating scent of paper and ink. The familiar creak of the wooden floorboards greeted her, and she smiled to herself, reveling in the sense of comfort and belonging that emanated from every corner of the store.
This place was meant to be her punishment, but over time, it'd become her fortress, her solitude. Renée made her way to the front counter, fingers trailing across the spines of the books as she passed by. Each volume seemed to call out to her, begging to be read, savored, and loved. She couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence and awe for the written word, for the way it had the power to transport readers to different worlds, to evoke emotions and inspire passions.
However, when the door bell rang it snapped her out of her illusion, whirling around with parted lips and a startled expression painted upon her skin. ''Oh, I'm sorry. We, um, we're not open for another-- another half hour.'' She stumbled, offering a weak smile. But when she thought of turning someone away from something as magical as books, she offered a sweet smile.
''If there's something you need, I can still help you though.''
