The Universe Chronicles — 002

  “The Librarian”

  “The Prima Library—is the most important library in the nation! No,

  In the entire continent,” the head librarian said proudly.

  Her eyes drifted across a young crowd of people who all wore the Royal Academy's uniform.

  The head librarian glanced at me. I instantly plastered a big fat smile and nodded at her…. She smirked for a moment then continued speaking.

  Yes, I get it… move on you old hag!

  I’ve heard this speech thousands of times. So much so, that the head librarian’s words became a muffled noise.

  The students eyes flickered across the library, seeming uninterested in what the head librarian was saying.

  I kept grinning.

  Seriously! It's only been a few minutes and I'm already dying inside.

  I just want to work and read my book—is that too much to ask for?

  “Karen? Are you listening?” The head librarian asked.

  I froze for a moment.

  “As I said… Can you give these students a tour of our great library?” The head librarian asked sternly.

  I smiled and nodded—awkwardly.

  Why? It's a waste of time, these morons don't care anyway!

  I sighed and showed the students around… composing myself despite fuming on the inside.

  She hates me… I just know that she hates me!

  As long as I've worked here, the head librarian will find an excuse to shout at you. I heard rumors that not everything is well at home.

  Hmm… maybe she just needs a place to vent her anger? Lucky me…

  After what felt like an eternity, I was finally free.

  Now it was just me and my book.

  “Ohh… I wonder what the pirate will do to the princess this time.” I giggled to myself.

  But thinking of the day I had shown those students around I was reminded of the time I attended the academy myself.

  Ohh, I surely miss those times…

  Well, not the boring stuff we had to learn—

  But romance, rumors and secret affairs…

  I couldn't stop grinning—just thinking back at those moments.

  Suddenly, a man’s voice called out.

  “Can I please ask for assistance?” he asked.

  I looked up and saw a tall handsome man with long blond hair and big round glasses standing before me.

  I jumped up from my chair. “Ohh yes, of course. How may I help?”

  He pulled out a piece of paper. “Can you provide me with this book?”

  The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.

  “Right away.” I nodded and rushed to find it.

  “Let's see… Ohh, they’re quite old.” I raised my brow.

  “Here is the requested book, will that be all?” I said respectfully.

  The man adjusted his glasses. “Thank you, I hope it wasn't too much of a bother.” He smiled warmly.

  My heart suddenly started to beat fast.

  Ahhh… his smile is blinding me—he's so handsome!

  My face flushed red. “Ahh no… it wasn't… too much of a bother… to whom shall I address this?” I stammered.

  “To Simon Von Steiner.” He said and placed his palm on his chest.

  I widened my eyes. “Von Steiner? Ohh, please forgive my rudeness—I didn't know!”

  He shook his head. “It is of no concern. I like to keep things casual.”

  “Ahh… of course, but I'll make sure to remember next time.” I grinned awkwardly.

  I hurried to fill in his information and send him off with the books.

  He then left, but for some reason my heart wouldn't stop pounding.

  “Ahh… that was intense… but… he was so handsome” I smiled.

  I wish we had talked more.

  “No wait, he'll be back soon to return the book!” My eyes shimmered.

  I quickly opened and scrolled through my book.

  “How did the princess catch the pirates' attention? Ohh I see…”

  A few weeks later, Mr. Simon came back to the library. I took out the pin that held my hair up in a bun, and let it fall down to my shoulders. Just like the princess in the story!

  “Welcome back Mr. Simon!” I bowed deeply.

  Simon nodded. “I have a request for another book.” He said while handing me a piece of paper.

  It was another old book so I hurried and found what he needed.

  “Here you go…is there anything else you need?” I asked with a huge smile.

  “No, it's fine for now, I’ll be back.” He said and walked out.

  “Ahh crap… he didn't notice my hair!” I pouted.

  Next time he came I took off my glasses… He, of course, didn't notice.

  Another time I tried using an expensive perfume… he kept asking if there was a fire somewhere?

  Note to self, don't use the entire bottle next time!

  But every time he came, we would have a small chat and I slowly grew more fond of him.

  Before I knew it, he was constantly on my mind.

  I even tried to dress more provocatively but that only got me a scolding from the head librarian.

  Simon of course—didn't notice a thing!

  “Gahh! Nothing works on him!” I pulled my hair, frustrated.

  “Maybe, maybe he just doesn't like me like that?” I sighed deeply.

  My shoulders slumped and I fell back into my chair. “Hmm… he comes from an amazing and accomplished family… while my own family is…”

  I slammed my head into the table. “I've got to stop kidding myself!”

  A few days later Simon came back with his usual request. I had given up and reverted back to my usual look.

  “Hello Miss Karen, this will be the last book I need.” Simon handed over a piece of paper.

  “Huh? Last time?” I looked up in surprise.

  Simon nodded. “Yes, I won't be needing your services for a while.”

  I lowered my head. “Ohh… I see.”

  A moment later I found the book and handed it to him.

  “Well… at least I’ll see you one last time when this book is to be returned. “I forced a smile.

  Simon nodded and picked up the book only to turn around and walk away.

  Seeing him go like that I felt my stomach twisting.

  Suddenly Simon stopped and glanced back.

  “You know… it's nice to see you look like yourself again, it fits you better.” Simon's expression softened.

  My eyes widened before he could leave.

  “Mr. Simon!” I shouted and closed the distance between us.

  Simon tilted his head. “Yes?”

  “Would you… would you like… to join me for lunch today?” My voice trembled.

  “Hmm… for lunch?” Simon scratched his chin.

  “Well, I could eat, so… sure—why not!” He nodded.

  “It's a date!” I said with a bright smile.

  I immediately turned and walked back to my desk. I could feel Simon gaze lingering on me for a moment before he walked out.

  As I walked back I couldn't help but giggle, like a schoolgirl.

  A moment later outside of the library, Simon was walking toward the town until he suddenly came to a stop.

  “Wait a minute! What did I just agree to?”