Donovan narrows his eyes. “Yeah, well, we can discuss your dress tomorrow. Also lunch! Let’s get lunch in town, too.”
His enthusiasm is catching. The idea of a proper date sounds so fun. “Can’t wait.”
Alexis pushes his chair back. “We should head out now.”
Looking at the clock, I realize how late it’s gotten. “OK, thanks for the pizza, Max. See you all tomorrow.”
Ludo walks outside with me and Alexis. We all pause at the pathway that leads to the library.
—If you need me, I’ll come running—
—Get some rest, Lu—
He nods and walks off, taking a piece of my heart with him.
31
As we walk towards the library, I hear Theo’s voice inside my head.
It makes my skin tingle.
—Alexis?—
—Yes, pulu?—
—Wish I could hold your hand right now—
I wish that and infinitely more.
But if I cannot worship her in the way my body insists, at least I can be useful with my brain.
Adore-through-service is my new mantra.
Stepping through the library doors, students nervously scurry out of my way. I’m pretty sure they think I’m half-feral, which is fine.
Archibald Quinlin looks up from his desk and gives me a brief, recognizing nod. I start a subtle manipulation spell to make sure the librarian will be helpful.
“Hi, Mr. Quinlin,” Theo smiles, going straight over to his desk. “Are you up for a challenge?” She leans forward conspiratorially, and I try not to look at her ass.
Donotlook at her ass.
My eyes immediately drop to her delicious curves.
“Professor Feniks?”
I drag my eyes up to meet the questioning gaze of the librarian. “Alexis,” I say. “Please call me Alexis. Are you able to help Theo with her enquiries?” I cut to the chase.
“Ah, yes, she was just saying she was interested in the Divine Realm of Avalon, guardians of the aforementioned realm, and something called,” he looks at his notes. “...Lumina.” Quinlin taps a pen against his teeth. “Interesting, where did you come across that term? I’m intrigued.”
Theo casts me a pleading look, so I answer for her.
“As Theo’s counselor, I’m helping her structure an independent study,” I bullshit. “Um, Theo’s mother would tell her a bedtime story based on Avalon and its Guardians. We thought it would be a fun and interesting topic for deeper research.”
“Independent study? At this time of year?” Quinlin frowns.
"I’ve been struggling,” Theo jumps in, biting her lip. “You see, I’m not just a dud...”
She lowers her voice, leaning closer to the desk, forcing the word out. “...I’m an AUA.”
