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She ran her fingers through my hand and I leaned in. “Did the Caid promise you that?”
“No. But you know how the Elves are.”
The Elves didn’t know how to deal with aging. Each time a representative visibly aged, they were sent back home. It was the way of things.
“I promise I will visit as often as I can. I have to see Tilila grow up.”
Chapter 5
The Golden Stick
Iran my fingers along the spines of the books as I walked by. I stopped in front of an enormous book. It was bound in leather and looked old and fragile. My fingers itched to open it, to see what secrets it held. But I had other things to do.
Maybe later, I told myself.
I didn’t want to be late for the meeting.
Mila and I walked through the library, our footsteps echoing on the polished floor. Light streamed in through the tall windows, as dust motes danced in the beams. Students talked in hushed tones, and the air was thick with the smell of books and learning.
When we almost reached our destination: a large redwood door at the back of the room, a student approached me and asked if I had time to answer a question.
Mila tapped her foot impatiently, but I ignored her. Helping students was part of my job, after all.
The guy fidgeted with his bag, not meeting my eyes.
“Of course.” I smiled at him. “You go ahead, Mila. You can tell them I will join them soon.”
Mila nodded and hurried off. Her heels clicked on the floor, echoing in the silence.
The guy finally looked up at me. He had big brown eyes, and he was biting his lip nervously.
“I wouldn’t mind waiting.”
I led him over to a couple of armchairs by the window. Students bustled past us, and the noise level in the room rose.
“So, what can I do for you?” I settled down into my chair. “Massin, right?”
He fidgeted with his bag again. “I’m surprised you recognized me.”
“I try to remember everyone’s name and face.”
He looked down at his hands. “That’s impressive.”
He paused, and I thanked him for the compliment. “So, what can I help you with?”
His eyes darted around the room. My eyes followed his gaze and settled on the other students, who were throwing us curious glances.
He looked at me. “I’m unsure if this is the right place to ask.”
I stood up. “How about we continue this conversation outside? It’s a lovely day.”
He nodded eagerly and followed me out of the library.
Sunlight hit us the moment we stepped outside. He put his hand up to shade his eyes while squinting.
“Sorry,” I said. “Do you want to sit down?”
He nodded, and we walked over to a large redwood tree. Its branches provided us with much-needed relief from the heat of the sun.
