Chapter 2

chapter

two

W ell, I guess we’re back to being awkward.

Picking up the crap from the roof takes me a bit of time, but eventually the circulation desk looks back to normal. We’re going to need to keep the library closed until the day of the party, but that’s fine by me. I still have so much work to do.

A few hours later, I take a seat at my desk and admire my hard work. The children’s room begins to resemble a winter wonderland. Handmade paper snowflakes hang from the ceiling, giving the room the appearance of being trapped inside of a snowglobe. Too bad we aren’t expecting any real snow anytime soon. A little white outside would really tie this all together.

Each of the circular tables in the room are covered with crafting stations where kids can create their own ornaments, or decorate a cookie. My pride and joy is the cozy reading nook that I created out of fluffy blankets and overstuffed pillows. I can’t wait to see people together as they read a festive story.

“Wow, this place looks incredible.”

Standing in the doorway is Declan, holding two disposable coffee cups from Blissful Bites, the bakery owned by my friend Ada’s orc mate.

I blush at his compliment, and can’t help but notice my racing heart. He hands me a cup, and I take a sip, a slight tremor in my hand. Every time I’m near him my heart feels like it’s going to burst out of my chest, and this has never happened to me with any guy I’ve been interested in. The rich and creamy flavor of peppermint hot chocolate helps calm my nerves.

“Thank you for the hot chocolate. The room’s not finished just yet, but I’m happy so far.” Tucking a piece of my blonde hair behind my ear, I give him a bashful smile. It’s not easy for me to accept compliments. It’s something that I’ve been working on. Sure, I have confidence in myself for days, but it’s different when someone else tries to acknowledge my awesomeness.

“Don’t be so humble, Hannnah. You’ve really outdone yourself,” Declan replies while walking around the space and taking in my handmade decorations. He stops every now and then to point out specific details that he appreciates. I’d be lying if I didn’t admit that his compliments have an impact on me.

He finally stops less than a foot in front of me, his eyes locked on my face. “Hannah, I…” he starts, but is interrupted by a ringing in his pocket. Declan’s eyes flutter closed briefly in irritation and he releases a heavy sigh. Pulling his phone out, he glares at it like it’s personally offended him. “I’m sorry, but I need to take this. It’s my brother and we rarely get to talk to each other these days. I’ll see you tomorrow, mo ghràidh.”

He hesitates before he leaves, but ultimately walks to the front door and answers the call. Despite his abrupt departure, my stomach does a little flip knowing that I’ll be seeing him again tomorrow.