Page 11 of Enchanting the Elf
My shoulders climb up to my ears. “I—”
“Please do not apologize again.” Adelbert’s silver eyes widen. “I am aware that you did not deliberately appear within the wards, however, it does not negate the effects.”
I bristle because he can’t be sure that I was going to apologize. Could he? Instead of letting any hurt show in my expression, I fix a polite smile on my face.
“You’re right. Nothing about this has been deliberate. But since I’m here”—I spread my arms and gesture to the surrounding woods, the soft gilded rays of the rising sun streaking through the towering trees—“let me know if there is any way I can help you or, if you prefer, I’ll leave you in peace to focus on your research in solitude.”
“Thank you. I shall inform you if there is any specific thing I require,” Adelbert says, not unkindly.
I remind myself that we’re essentially strangers and don’t owe each other anything. Living with him is temporary, and I’ll most likely be back in Kentucky by the end of the week.
Why does that make me feel lonely?
While Adelbert is holed up in his study, I’ll explore the forest surrounding his house—within the bond’s parameters—and make the most of my first time in Europe. I wish I had my embroidery supplies to pass the time, though. I didn’t pack any on my week away with Dede, since it was meant to be filled with only relaxation and sisterly bonding time.
Now, the two of us are living on opposite sides of the world for a yet-to-be-determined amount of time and my heart is longing to recreate some of the spectacular sights I’ve seen.
My bigger embroidery pieces sell to special collectors and it’s how I make a living. A modest living, but a happy one nonetheless. But I wonder if I’ll have the same level of difficulty parting with the Black Forest pieces I want to create, just like I’ve not been able to part from the meadow piece.
I resolve to ask Adelbert about where to buy thread if my stay extends beyond a week, but for the time being, I’ll find other ways to keep busy.
A new thought occurs to me and, after a quick pep talk to myself to not be shy and to speak up, I pierce the silence with my question.
“Will I be able to enter the library or is there somewhere I should wait for you?”
A muscle ticks in Adelbert’s sharp jaw.
“It would not be wise to enter the library with me. Though I am usually the only one there this early in the morning, there is a chance that staff members could be about. It would be best to have you wait outside the building at a safe distance. I know the section I want to gather resources from, so it shouldn’t take too long.”
I nod as I process that he’s hiding me like a dirty secret. I might not like it, but his logic makes sense.
Aiming for a gentler tone, but back still rigidly straight, Adelbert continues, “I shall keep within one hundred yards so we do not upset the distance bond. Also, since I am able to sense people within certain parameters, I shall hasten to you should there be a chance of being discovered. Do you have any other questions?”
I wonder what it’s like to be so goal-oriented that you forget about your emotions. Not once has Adelbert complained. He has kept a neutral mask in place since I met him and he is singularly focused on helping everyone without any assistance.
Adelbert is only two years older than me, but it feels like he has lived more lives with all the hats he wears and the responsibilities he carries.
Determined not to add to his very full plate, I straighten my spine and say cheerfully, “Nope. No questions. I’ll follow your lead.”
Adelbert studies me with a perceptive gaze, his silver eyes brimming with an unidentifiable emotion, then jerks his head sharply.
“We are almost to the boundary. Please stay close.”
Chapter eight
Adelbert
The presence of Florence in my home is utterly vexing, and it could not have come at a more inopportune time. I am due to give my research presentation this fall, an event where the top scholars of the supernatural community will be present.
Including my father, the head of Alberad.
I have studied, researched, and prepared for years. The result of my presentation will determine whether I will become an active professor at Alberad, the same as every other male figure in my lineage until they eventually take over the running of theschool. Should I fail to impress, I will have to extend my research and present again next fall, once I have gathered sufficient results.
My father was twenty-seven when he presented his research and qualified to become a professor, a full year younger than I am now, and he will not let me forget that fact. Nor my intellectual inferiority to him, and therefore, the fate of the future of Alberad hangs in the balance because of me.
Much the same as my friends are depending on me to resolve these bonds we have been saddled with. My promise to everyone on the island that I will work as fast as I am able to in order for all to return to their normal—separate—lives again, weighs heavily on me.
I intend to keep my word.
