Funny how I thought the library would be smaller.
It was my first visit since moving to the village.
I could only borrow one book at a time with my new library card.
But the rows of books just kept going on and on.
Everything was so interesting.
It was just so difficult to choose any one book.
Whatever book I took would lead to borrower’s remorse.
I would regret not having selected a different book.
I thought to leave the library many times over the years,
but I could never find the door.
At the counter, the cute librarian would always ask me
if I was ready to check out a book yet.
But I couldn’t decide.
With so many options, how could anyone decide?
It’s been a long time now,
years, probably, since I came to the library.
I’m sure my family has declared me missing.
Or dead.
I catch my reflection in the window.
Who knew that hair could grow so long?
And look how thin I’ve become!
I grab a novel from the shelf and
make my way to the checkout counter.
I’ve read the book before,
but I know I won’t be disappointed to read it again.
I hand my card over to the librarian and she smiles
as the exit door materializes behind her.
Are you sure this is the book you want to borrow today, sir?
I think so, but I can’t be sure.
I can only take one book, after all.
What if I make a mistake?
I feel the beads of perspiration on my skin.
No, I guess not. Thank you, but I’ll keep looking.
The librarian smiles,
hands back my card as the exit door vanishes.