“No, wait,” Samir says, raising his hands placatingly. “That’s cool. Do you have a copy?”

I do, somewhere around here, but God knows what condition Samir will return it in. “Nope.”

Samir worries his bottom lip between his teeth. “Where can I get one?”

I almost tell him to Google the closest bookstore, but then I take note of how earnest his expression is.

I guess it wouldn’t hurt to go a little above and beyond to help him. Ace and I planned to meet at the aquarium today anyway, and it isn’t that far off from where I have in mind. “I might know a place...”

Two Stories is as magical as last time. I catch sight of Genesis near the register, but she’s with a customer this time.

“Knock yourself out,” I say to Samir, my own eyes snagging on the young adult shelves.

“What? I don’t know where anything is.” Samir gives me an aghast look. “How am I supposed to find Jane Eyre?”

I shrug. “Beats me.”

“What kind of sister are you?”

“The kind of sister who came to a bookstore with you when I could’ve easily sat at home and minded my business,” I say, poking his shoulder.

Samir groans. “You’re the worst,” he says, before his eyes fall on Genesis. “She looks like she works here. Let’s ask her.”

“She’s clearly busy,” I say.

“I’m a paying customer, too. She can make herself available,” Samir says and walks off before I can protest what an entitled mindset that is.

Ugh.

I linger behind him, regretting all the decisions in my life that led me here. When he reaches her, Samir says, “Hey, can you tell me where to find Jane Eyre? My sister won’t help me.”

I glare at him. Behind Genesis, the other customer wanders off, so at least there’s one less witness for when I inevitably murder my brother.

Genesis turns and her expression brightens when she sees me. “Oh my God, hi, Karina! Is Ace with you?”

I shake my head. If only. “Not this time. I’m here to help my annoying little brother find a book.”

“Forget about her,” Samir says, waving me off. “I am literally begging for your help to find Jane Eyre. Dude, please.”

Genesis raises her eyebrows. “Begging me? Well, I guess I’d better help then.” She looks at me and adds, “Come by with Ace next time. I miss that little punk.”

I don’t have a chance to reply before she whisks Samir away, leaving me alone. It’s not like I mind, anyway.

The young adult section is empty when I get there, so I have the freedom to pick through titles without worrying I’m taking up space. As I run my fingers along the bindings, my phone buzzes in my pocket.

I take it out to see a text from my cousin Fatima.