The bell chimed softly as Justin appeared at the door, his coat dusted with shadows that didn’t belong to the streetlight outside. He moved through the aisles like he knew every book by heart.

A strange hum vibrated from a shelf in the corner. You stepped closer, and Justin’s eyes followed, sharp and alert. His fingers hovered over the spines as if sensing something dangerous beneath the covers.

One book trembled and then floated into the air. Justin caught it effortlessly, holding it between his hands. The letters on the cover shifted, glowing faintly. You felt the air thicken, heavy with energy you didn’t understand.

He glanced at you, expression unreadable but protective. Without a word, he traced a circle on the floor, and the floating book dropped gently inside it, safe. His hand lingered near yours as if to reassure, though neither of you moved.

The hum faded, leaving the bookstore still and quiet. Justin set the book back on the shelf, eyes scanning the room like a guardian who had been waiting just for this moment.

You stayed close, feeling the pulse of the magic lingering in the air, and realizing the bookstore had always been more alive than you’d ever noticed—especially with him around.