What’s Gone (A Peyton Risk Suspense Thriller—Book 4) by Ella Swift

Author:Ella Swift [Swift, Ella]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: UNKNOWN
Published: 2024-02-06T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

What caught Peyton's attention about Miller's Library was the intricate ironwork that adorned its entrance, depicting various scenes from classic literature. The designs were so detailed that she could make out the tiny figure of Captain Ahab locked in his eternal struggle with Moby Dick.

"Interesting choice for a library entrance," she mused aloud, her eyes following the lines of the intricate metalwork.

"Definitely unique," Sean said, admiring the craftsmanship. "Shall we go and see if the inside is even remotely as interesting?"

Peyton nodded, and together she and Sean exited the vehicle and entered the library, their footsteps loud in the hushed silence. The interior was a testament to times gone by: tall wooden shelves laden with well-worn books stood sentinel along the walls, interrupted by reading nooks with plush, burgundy chairs. A rich scent of old paper and leather bindings permeated the air, giving it a sense of nostalgia.

Despite the inviting atmosphere, however, Peyton couldn't see anyone around. She scanned the room for any signs of life, her fingers idly brushing against the edge of the library card in her pocket.

"What did Chip say the manager's name was?" she asked. "Kevin?"

Sean nodded. "Doesn't look like he's around, though."

"Let's split up," Peyton said, careful not to disturb the quiet serenity of the place. "There has to be someone working here."

Sean nodded, and he headed left while Peyton went right. They each took different aisles, scanning the books' spines and occasionally taking a minute to admire the antiquated beauty of the library.

As she moved deeper into the stacks, Peyton noticed a slight humming sound that broke the silence of the library. The sound got louder as she moved further in, and eventually, Peyton found herself standing outside a wooden door with 'Archives' written on it.

"Hello?" Peyton called.

The door was slightly ajar, revealing a space filled with books that seemed to stretch on forever. As she stepped inside, she observed the walls lined with towering bookshelves, each one cluttered with volumes that appeared to have been untouched for years. The dust that hung heavy in the air danced in a thin shaft of sunlight filtering through a grimy window. It was a small sanctuary hidden away from the world, a treasure trove of forgotten knowledge.

"Is anyone here?" Peyton asked again. Still, there was no reply. Feeling a frisson of fear trickle down her spine, she advanced farther into the room, her eyes scanning the titles on the shelves, searching for any clue that might reveal who frequented this secluded haven.

As she turned around, a figure suddenly materialized behind her, causing Peyton to cry out in shock. The figure, a gangly teenager with unruly hair and oversized glasses that magnified his wide, frightened eyes, recoiled at her reaction. His face was a map of constellations formed by acne scars, and his clothes were a haphazard combination of mismatched patterns and colors.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you," the teenager stammered, removing the headphones and nestling them around his neck, oblivious to Peyton's presence until that very moment.

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