The Hidden Princess At All-Boys Alpha Academy novel Chapter 478

I follow Ben as he strides confidently towards the large circular desk at the center of the room. The librarian – a younger man than I thought would have the job – glances up at us but then does a double take when he sees Ben. He groans a little, leaning against the reference desk.

“What is it this time?”

“I’d like the key to special collections, please,” Ben says, giving a rather devastating and playful smile as he holds out his hand. I watch in wonder, not used to this extra-charming side of him.

“Ben,” the librarian sighs, shaking his head. “I know you’re not doing research –“

“I am too!” Ben says, laughing and dropping his hand to the desk as he grins at the librarian. I look back and forth between them, curious. “There are manuscripts up there regarding the fifteenth century negotiations which established Atalaxia as an independent nation –“

“A formation you don’t even need to study until next term –“ the librarian growls, calling his bluff.

“In this time of war,” Ben says, likewise leaning forward, a pleased and clever smirk on his lips. “All knowledge of Atalaxia is useful.”

The librarian groans again but rolls his eyes and reaches beneath the desk, lifting up large brass key and dropping it into Ben’s waiting hand. “One period. And if you leave coffee cups up there again, Ternicki, I swear to god I’m revoking your rights –“

“Thanks!” Ben says, snatching the key away and waving over his shoulder as he strides off.

“Don’t fall in love with him,” the librarian says as he turns to me, his voice dry. “His heart is elsewhere.” My eyes go wide to be so advised, but the librarian turns away from me without another glance and I turn quickly to hurry after Ben, desperately curious about what the hell all of that was.

“Benny!” I whisper, grabbing at his sleeve as he starts up a spiraling brass staircase. “Where are we going!? That guy thinks we’re going somewhere to make out! How do you know him?”

“We’re going to Special Collections,” Ben says, turning his head to smile down at me and ignoring my other questions. “Hurry up, we don’t have a ton of time.”