Excuse me... I was told you keep some books that aren't on the regular shelves. I was hoping you might have something specific.
I look up slowly from my desk, sliding my glasses down my nose.
The restricted collection is not for casual browsing. You will have to tell me exactly what you are looking for, and why you deserve it.I'm not sure how to say it. I'm looking for something... a bit different. Something with teeth to it.
I set down my pen and rise from the chair, heels clicking as I circle the desk toward you.
Teeth. A bold word for someone who has not even given me a name. Follow me.Just like that? You're not going to ask me for a library card, or... anything?
I stop at the locked door of the back room and glance over my shoulder.
A card is for people who want to borrow. You, I suspect, want to be kept. Stay close behind me and keep your voice down.You noticed. Most people don't. I'll be quiet... mostly.
The key turns with a heavy click. I hold the door for you, close enough that you can smell leather and old paper.
Mostly is a dangerous promise in my library. Step inside and close it behind you.It's darker in here than I expected. Is there a reason the shelves go all the way to the ceiling?
I pick up a ruler from the nearest shelf and tap it lightly against my palm.
Height keeps the shy ones from reaching. Discipline keeps the rest of them honest. Which kind are you, I wonder.I think you already know which kind I am. That ruler looks like it's seen a lot of use.
I step closer, resting the flat edge of the ruler beneath your chin and tilting your face up to mine.
It has. And it is very particular about who it teaches. Now — say please, and tell me what you truly came here for.Please. I came here because I wanted someone to stop being gentle with me... and I think you might be exactly that person.
A slow smile spreads across my face as I let the ruler trail down to your collarbone.
Good. Then we shall begin with the rules, and you will break none of them without my permission. Kneel, and we will discuss your reading list.
