Page 51 of The Spell Caster

“Should be.” He made no move to let me go.

“I should go.”

“Yeah.”

We stood there a moment longer before I shook my head with a laugh. I took his hand and pulled him out of my room.

Oliver and Datura were perched in their usual spot on the couch, staring at a phone screen together. They looked up at Costi’s imposing form with identical wide-eyed expressions. It might have been funny if the mood wasn’t serious.

I dropped Costi’s hand, and we leaned away from each other. “Costi’s feeling better,” I choked out. My face went cold, then hot.

Oliver snickered. “I’ll bet he is.”

“Yup. See you later,” I said as I hustled for the door.

After watching Costi walk away from the building to make sure he really was okay, I made my way to the library, stopping briefly to pick up a cherry pastry and a hot tea.

The library was lit brightly by the skylights, with a number of witches working and reading comfortably in the various nooks created by the furniture. I quickly picked out Calamus’s red-robed form, and he stood up to greet me.

“Morning,” I said quietly, not wanting to disturb anyone.

He led me to a glass-enclosed meeting room where we could talk at a normal volume.

“You’re not too tired after last night?” I asked.

His face lit up. “You thought of me? I wasn’t hurt.”

Thanks to Costi. “I’m glad you’re all right,” I said.

“I won’t lie—it was terrifying. It’s apparent that we don’t know as much as we thought about the angels.”

I shivered.

“I intend on looking into it. After I’ve helped you, of course.”

“There’s something I’d like to discuss first,” I said.

Calamus smiled. “Anything.”

I took a deep breath. I hated doing this kind of thing. “I know our parents were trying to set us up, but I’m not… interested in that kind of relationship with you.”

His lips thinned, but he nodded. “I see. Is there… someone else?”

I felt my face heat and hoped it didn’t show on my skin. “I just… don’t think you and I are a good match. I’m sorry.”

Calamus gave a forced smile. “I disagree, but of course I’ll respect your wishes. I hope you’ll reconsider, though. I’d like to be friends, at least.”

“I’d like that,” I said honestly.

“Good. Great, thank you.” He cleared his throat. “If you’re feeling complete with that topic of discussion, I’d like to go over some details about the circle spell.”

I let go of my breath quietly. I thought he might be more upset, after what Costi said. “Yes, please. Thank you again for your help.”

“The circle required is quite large, so I asked the Arcaenum for permission to close the practice arena on Saturday to accommodate it.”

I blinked. The councilors must really be serious about this.

“I’ll trace the circle. It looks like it’ll take about five hours,” he continued.

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