“No, no, it was completely my fault. I wasn’t paying any attention to where I was going.” She grins, and it lights up her whole face.

“We’re both at fault then, because my nose was in a book,” she says as she bends to pick up the book she dropped when I smacked into her.

“Why are you here in the archives instead of celebrating the holiday?” I ask, and her cheeks flush slightly.

“I don’t have family to celebrate with, and I love the archives on holidays when it’s completely empty. There’s nothing to do but read at my own leisure.” I hide my surprise that she has no family and change the subject, not wanting to pry.

“I hope it’s okay that I’m in here. I was also hoping to find it deserted.” I give her a mischievous look that brings another radiant smile to her face.

“Well, Dern wouldn’t like it, but he isn’t here!” she exclaims brightly, and I laugh.

“I don’t want to get you into any trouble—”

“You won’t. It’s not really a rule, just the result of his stubbornness and prejudice. Can I help you find anything?”

“Actually, yes. I’m looking for an Old Fae dictionary so I can refresh my vocabulary of the language. It’s been a while since I read anything in it.”

Her eyes widen in surprise. “You can read Old Fae?”

“Not well,” I admit. “But enough to translate with the right lexicon nearby.”

“This way,” she says with a quick pivot on her heel. I trail behind her through several corridors and rows of books before she stops in what looks like the oldest and dustiest corner of the entire place. Her brows furrow in concentration as she scans the book titles, and she bites her bottom lip in a tantalizing movement.

“Here it is!” she exclaims in triumph, eyes shining brightly as she hands me a massive and crumbling tome.

“Thank you,” I say, and we stand awkwardly for a few beats. “Would you like to read together?” I ask to break the silence.

“Oh, I wouldn’t want to disturb you,” she says, though without much resolve.

“Nonsense. It’s a holiday, and I would love the company. It’s a bit lonely here on days like today.”

Her expression softens. “I can imagine how hard it must be to be in another kingdom, away from your family and friends, on days like today.” The compassion and understanding in her voice makes my throat tighten uncomfortably, so I turn away before she can notice.

“Do you have a favorite reading nook?” She gives me the most ornery grin I’ve ever seen.

“Follow me, Ambassador.”