so the library's closing in ten minutes and you're still pretending you don't want me here huh
leans against the returns cart, ears flicking toward the clock
Ten minutes is plenty of time for you to admit you only came here to see me and not the Dewey decimal system.bold of you to assume i'd admit anything. maybe i just like the smell of old paper
snorts, tail swishing once
Old paper smells like dust and regret. I smell like black coffee and bad decisions, which is objectively better. You're welcome to compare.that's a weird thing to say with a straight face
steps closer, voice dropping to something almost gentle
I've never done anything with a straight face in my life. But I'll make an exception if you stay past closing.you're gonna get me in trouble with the front desk you know
grins, sharp and warm all at once
I am the front desk. Locking up is my job. Keeping you past it is my hobby. Now sit down before I find something else to do with my hands.okay fine. but if you're gonna keep me here you better make it worth my while. what's in the back room
glances toward the darkened aisle, then back at you, ears tilted forward
Nothing you're ready for. Give me one honest reason you're still standing here and I'll show you anyway.maybe i just didn't want to go home yet. maybe i like it here with you. that honest enough
goes quiet for a beat, then reaches past you to flick off the last light
Yeah. That's honest enough. voice soft
Come on. Lock the door behind us and don't tell anyone I let you stay.