Page 51 of Kiss the Dawn
I burst through the door into the aroma of sausage, bacon, and coffee. It isn’t too busy yet, just a couple of patrons tucking into all-day breakfasts at the table by the wall.
Andy, the owner, looks up from the counter with a confused smile. “Hey, he said to deliver it.”
“What?”
“Edwin. He said to deliver breakfast to the office. But that’s fine.” He hurries out back before I can question him further and returns with a large paper bag containing our order. “Oh, and this too.” He hands me an envelope.
It’s addressed to me. I tear it open, heart hammering with foreboding, and read his beautifully neat script.
Padma,
Firstly, don’t be mad. Promise? Okay. So I found out about a place that might hold the secret of getting rid of the infection inside you. But it’s by invite only, and it’s kinda not on this plane of existence. Anyway. I got an invite and I’m leaving today. The plan is to find the information and come back, but the thing is, there’s a small possibility that I might not make it back. Quantum physics or mechanics and magic and all that stuff. And I knew if I’d told you about it, you’d have made me promise not to go, and I can’t do that. I can’t sit by and do nothing when I know there’s a real chance to save you, because I care about you, Padma. More than you know and I’m gonna shut up now.
I’ll be back soon.
I know I will. And then we can talk.
Edwinx
No…I shove the note into my pocket and head for the exit.
“Padma! Hey, your food!”
But I’m out on the pavement, boots slapping cement as I run toward the nearest taxi rank. I know exactly where he’s gone. I just hope I’m in time to stop him.
Chapter 18
EDWIN
The night library is gloomy today, as if reflecting its librarian’s mood.
I’ve never seen Odi look so somber before. As if he’s about to send me off to my execution. Maybe he is. Maybe I won’t return. But if I don’t go, I’ll lose Padma. She tries to hide it, but I can see the infection spreading, black veins peeking out from her collar and cuff. This thing inside her won’t simply stop by itself. It won’t go away. Not unless we make it.
The answer could be in the vault. It could be her only chance.
“Are you sure you don’t have time for some tea?” Odi asks.
I wish I could, but the food will have been delivered by now, along with my note.Padma’s smart. She’ll work out where I’ve gone, and she’ll come after me.
“I can’t, Odi. Not today.”
“When you return, then?” He says it with conviction, and I’m grateful that despite his solemn expression, he’s hopeful that I’ll make it back.
“Yes. For sure.”
“Have you said your goodbyes?”
“Yes.”
“You’re a terrible liar.”
I give him my most charming smile. “But I’m so cute when I do it.”
“Harmumph. This is no light matter. I hope for your return, but there is a possibility that hope may not be enough.”
“I know. I understand. But I have to do it.”
His orange eyes fill with understanding. “In that case, you may step through the door.”
