While I was still stuck in my existential crisis, a familiar voice pulled me back to reality.
"Sorry, Sir Aman," Miss Talien said, wringing her hands slightly. "Little Aida didn't say anything... strange to you, did she?"
Strange? Oh, just the usual—romantic analysis, shipping wars, and a full psychological breakdown courtesy of a preteen.
I kept my face carefully neutral.
"No," I lied smoothly.
Miss Talien sighed in relief, but then her expression dimmed. "It's just... her parents..." She hesitated, glancing toward where Aida had disappeared into the crowd of children. "They left her here after... well, 'love' didn't end well for them. Ever since, she's been..." She gestured vaguely.
Obsessed with romance novels and playing matchmaker? I mentally filled in.
I nodded sympathetically, though internally, I was already planning my next move. "Actually," I said, "I'd like to see your library."
Miss Talien blinked. "Why? Did you bring books too?"
No, I'm here to take them away.
