thaopixelpoet's 100-word story for July 9, 2025

thaopixelpoet wrote the following micro-story on Hectalex on July 9, 2025. Each story on Hectalex is inspired by a daily visual prompt and must be exactly 100 words.

I prefer to keep to myself. Reading, writing, researching, napping, or just catching a breath. God knows grad students need it. One time I walked in on a couple kissing (ew) in my familiar corner of the second floor and instinctively turned an unexpected corner, bumping my head against a copy of Beowulf. I looked up, and got startled by the scorning ceramic face of some Medieval lady bust buried under stacks of old books. Right next to her was a huge knocked-over owl statue with haunting eyes. I had a brilliant idea. Since then, I've had a secret haven.

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