“Kai,I—”
“I’ve got the best idea. Do you like musicals?”
Usually, I don’t appreciate interruptions, but this time, I’m relieved.
He unknowingly stopped me from ruining my resolve.
“I do. I haven’t seen a play since the ’70s.”
“What ’70s?”
“Excuse me?”
“Like, are we talkin’ the 1970s, or 1670s, or—”
“Heavens. How old do you think I am?” I ask, holding my hand over my chest, mortified. He bursts into an obnoxious laugh, gripping my waist. “The 1970s, Kai. I’m not ancient.”
He sighs in relief. “Great. You’re already out of my league, but I worry if you were raised in the 1600s, you’d be beyond reach.”
I laugh, shaking my head.
“Let’s go see a show. Have you ever watched a Broadway show?”
“I have. It’s been decades, though. I’d actually love to see how much it’s changed.”
“That settles it.” He grabs our books and sets them down on the other end of the sofa, declaring that onlookers can assume the bookshop is haunted. That might be good for business anyway—people love the paranormal.
Then, he rises from the seat and cradles me in his arms bridal-style.
“What on earth are you doing?”
“It’s time I carry you for a change. I live for our glory rides in the Middle Realm, but I’ve been wanting to hold you like this for a while.”
He carries me down the stairs carefully, making sure my feet don’t unintentionally smack any innocent bookworms scouring the shelves.
I glance outside and notice the sun is setting.
I’ve never had a bookshop date before. I’ll never forget this one.
We exit the shop, and instead of setting me down, he continues to hold me. I keep my arms hooked loosely around his neck and look up at him, taking note of his sharp jawline and full lips.
Little does he know, I don’t quite mind him carrying me. It’s been a long time since I ventured through New York City, and to say things have changed would be the understatement of the century. The sheer volume of loud cars, obnoxious pedestrians, big screens, and music has been enough to make me wish I could mute my surroundings.
I had no idea cell phones were as prevalent as they are. Everyone is on their phoneallthe time. It’s perplexing. Rather than connecting with those around them, they focus entirely on their screens. The devices even play loud music and audio clips casually.
Eloras is so quiet. I suppose I’ve gotten used to that.
This city, on the other hand, is practically screaming in comparison.
It wasn’t always this way.
Decades ago, I found this city peaceful. Calming, even. I found belonging here.
I promised myself I’d never spend time in this realm longer than necessary, especially not in New York.
Not only did I break my promise to myself, but I’m more conflicted about how to proceed than ever. I thought I’d be able to keep up this charade with Kai for at least a few days, but today made me realize I won’t even last a day.
The worst part is, I don’t even know the depth of his feelings.
