My laughter roars as my friends joke about the books I’ve read. I take in the beautiful scenery of New York City. The skyscrapers stand so tall and I am winded just by looking at them. The Architute is so beautiful I can’t help but wipe away at my eyes, feeling scared that what I am seeing is nothing but an illusion. 

 

My friends come to a halt, bewilderment strikes at me as I wonder what is the object of their crude stares. Then I see it. The glass double doors guarding the treasure. 

 

I don’t bother to look at the sign. 

 

I walk in feeling my eyes well up. I have never seen such a beautiful sight. 

 

A row of brown bookshelves that extend in a U shape. The array of books organized in alphabetical order and by color. The air feels clean. The smell of linen pierces my nostrils and the faint of brewing coffee brings me peace. 

 

I can’t help but stroke the lovely books with my fingertips, the material feeling smooth with rough cut edges. My eyes turn to the mothers and girlfriends sharing a smile once they’ve found something worth purchasing. 

 

My friends point toward a book. The fine print reads “Catcher in the Rye” I let out a joyous laugh. This one was so much prettier than the one I have at home I thought. 

 

I stride towards the coffee shop with the book perched in my hands. I ordered a small black coffee, light sugar, and a bit of milk. The barista hands me it and tells me she likes my top, I smile at her in gratitude. 

 

Sitting down at the cafe I open the book sipping on my coffee. The bitter taste of coffee beans slid down my throat, I couldn’t help but cough. Just how I like it! 

 

My friends sneak a quick picture of me. I didn’t bother to berate them, this place didn’t deserve that. I felt a serene calm wash through my veins, as I heard the faint footsteps of people retreating with their books. 

 

 I begin to wonder about their stories. What had brought us to be together in the same place? 

 

Whatever it was, I am thankful. My eyes scan the room at once before picking up my things to leave. The picture is embedded into my memory forever. I will never forget you.