Till Next Time

"Oh, I'm so sorry!" she exclaimed, looking up to see Viscount Duven, the very man who she had a rather embarrassing first encounter with.

"Miss," the Viscount said with a polite bow, a hint of surprise in his eyes. "I didn't expect to see you here. Are you alright?"

Akeelah nodded, feeling a flush of embarrassment. "Yes, I'm fine. Just a bit lost, I suppose. I was looking for my friends."

The Viscount smiled. "It seems fate enjoys our meetings. I'm here to meet with a scholar who studies at this academy. Perhaps I can help you find your friends."

Akeelah hesitated, remembering their last encounter. "Thank you, Viscount. I appreciate your kindness. How is your scholar faring?"

"He's doing quite well, thank you for asking," Viscount replied. "He's one of the brightest minds here, and I make it a point to check on his progress."

As they walked together, the Viscount noticed Akeelah's lingering limp. "Is your leg healing well? You should still be careful."

Akeelah glanced down at her leg, then backed up at him. "It's healing, thanks to your help. I was quite embarrassed by the whole situation, but I'm grateful for your assistance."

"No need for embarrassment," the Viscount said kindly. "These things happen. I'm glad I could help. Do you have an interest in architecture?" he asked, noticing the book she was still holding.

"Oh, yes!" Akeelah said, her eyes lighting up. "Though I was hoping to find something on Ritch Shaw, I got distracted by this book on Georgian architecture. It piqued my interest as well!"

The Viscount chuckled. "Ritch Shaw, you say? He has quite the reputation. I believe there might be a section dedicated to his works here. Would you like me to help you find it?"

Akeelah's face brightened. "That would be wonderful! I didn't know there was a specific section for his works."

"Follow me," Viscount said, leading her back into the library. They navigated through the aisles until they reached a secluded section filled with architectural books. "Here we are. You should find plenty about Ritch Shaw here."

Akeelah's eyes sparkled as she scanned the shelves. "Thank you, Viscount. This is exactly what I was looking for."

"Think nothing of it," he replied, watching her with a soft smile. "You have a genuine passion for learning, and that's something to be encouraged. Now, let's find your friends before they start worrying."

With a book by Ritch Shaw now in hand, Akeelah and the Viscount exited the library. They didn't have to search long. Zoe and Brianne were just down the hall, waiting near a large window that overlooked the academy's courtyard.

"There you are!" Brianne called out, relief evident in her voice. "We came searching for you at the library though you weren't there anymore."

Akeelah waved and hurried over, the Viscount trailing behind her. "I'm sorry, I got caught up somewhere in there. But look, I did find a book to take home with me!"

"Thank goodness," Zoe said, glancing at the Viscount with curiosity. "And I see you're with the Viscount, greetings Lord Duven, pleasure seeing you."

Zoe and Brianne bowed slightly to the Viscount as they showed respect for him.

The Viscount bowed slightly. "Greetings Miss Roaduel and Miss Welsh, pleasure seeing the both of you here as well."

Zoe's eyes narrowed slightly, but she smiled politely. "Thank you for looking after our friend, Viscount. We were quite worried when she could not find her."

"It was my pleasure," the Viscount said smoothly. "The miss has a remarkable enthusiasm for knowledge, something to be admired."

Akeelah blushed slightly at the compliment. "Thank you, Viscount. And thank you both for being so patient with me. Till next time, Lord Duven." Looking back at her friends, she said "Shall we continue our tour?"

Zoe nodded, leading the way with renewed energy. As they walked, Akeelah couldn't help but feel a growing sense of appreciation for the Viscount. His unexpected kindness had made her day, and she looked forward to the next time their paths might cross.