Adrian, book-lover extraordinaire, adores his job at the small community library. He gets to share his passion with other people and help them with all book-related questions and issues. When a big, hulking man walks into the library, looking terrified, Adrian’s skills are tested in a completely different way.<br><br>Manne’s relationship with books is uneasy, to say the least. He’s dyslexic and events in his past have made him fearful of books and turned libraries into his worst nightmare. But when the quirky, bowtie-wearing librarian steps in to help, the experience turns positive.<br><br>Their banter is easy and their chemistry instant. But can an accidental meeting turn into something more? Can someone who has trouble reading ever fit into the life of a man whose passion is the written word?

They Met in the Library

“You’re welcome. I was worried for a while when I thought you weren’t breathing. I’m just glad you responded to my particular brand of quirk. Not everyone is a fan.”


“Then they’re idiots,” he says, then grimaces again and pats the pocket where his phone is. “Someone really wants to talk to me.”


I nod and let go of his hand, neither of us showing any remorse for standing there in the middle of the library, clasped in a handshake for much longer than socially acceptable between strangers. “Have a great rest of the day and say ‘hi’ to Charlie from me.”


“I will. Thanks again.” With a last glance at me, specifically my legs, he turns to leave


“Hey, Manne,” I call after him. “Put on the damned jacket. It’s freezing outside.”


He turns around and tuts at me. Then he puts on the jacket, eyes twinkling the entire time. “Yelling in the library! Kids these days have no manners.” He winks and struts out.


Chapter 5