章 40: Chase

After the warm sunlight outside, the library feels unnaturally dark and cool inside, a spacious cave lined with books. And it’s nearly empty—aside from a lonely sort of beeping from the shelving room behind the desk, there’s no other sign of human presence. Everyone is outside enjoying the perfect weather and free ice cream.

There’s a flash of a white blouse towards the rightmost opening to the stacks. I head towards the movement, not even thinking any more, just doing, just acting.

I turn the corner to see Liv disappear between two rows of shelves, a book in her hand. I stalk her steps quietly, not to sneak up on her, but because I’m making sure we’re alone as I follow her, making sure there’s no one else back here. And then when I’m sure we won’t be interrupted, I step around the corner.

She turns and gives a little jump, sucking in her breath. "Chase, you scared me—"