But it’s a happiness tainted by a sharp sensation, an imperceptible crack in reality. She doesn’t remember the sacrifices, the sleepless nights, the tears she shed in this life to get here. She doesn’t remember ever making this choice.

And then, as the music blends with the euphoria of the audience, she feels the Library begin to claim her again.

Darkness.

When she opens her eyes, she’s back.

—It didn’t fit —she whispers.

Mrs. Elm watches her with tenderness.

—It’s not just about wanting a life, Nora. It’s about living it.

Nora clenches her fists.

—There has to be one where I do belong.

Mrs. Elm smiles.

—Then let’s keep looking.

Another book. Another attempt. But a question begins to drum in her mind with unsettling insistence:

What if she never finds the right life?

Fourth Part: Borrowed Lives

Nora opens another book. And another. And another.