The library doors creaked softly as Raelynn pushed them open. She stepped inside, greeted by the familiar scent of old books and polished wood. The sun streamed through the tall windows, casting a warm, golden glow over the rows of shelves. Her heart felt lighter today, a rare flicker of peace settling over her as she made her way toward the counter.
Axel was there, perched on his usual chair behind the counter, flipping through a thick book. His glasses slid slightly down the bridge of his nose, and his sharp features were relaxed in concentration. The faint scratching sound of a pen on paper accompanied his movements as he jotted down notes in a small ledger.
Raelynn approached with a hesitant smile, clutching the book she had come to return. The light sound of her footsteps on the floor caught Axel's attention, and he glanced up.
"Hi, Axel," she greeted softly, holding up the book. "I came to return this."
