Andreigo always made a conscious effort to visit Gertrude’s discount bookstore on a regular basis. But today, for the very first time, there were high stakes involved. Only a few days prior, he and the upcoming high school freshmen class received letters from the renowned Whimsly Academy, one of the most prestigious academic institutions in the country. The letters would reveal the Academy’s decision to accept or reject each applicant. Andreigo and his best friend Lillian had decided that they’d wait and open their letters together at the bookstore. Neither of them wanted to face the decision of such an illustrious institution alone. In an effort to further promote diversity, Whimsly Academy had chosen to initiate the expansion of its overall admissions criteria, with hopes of ultimately allowing a more diverse range of students to be accepted in. They even introduced their inaugural foreign exchange program, with plans to admit gifted students from all over the world. Andreigo, aspiring to be among the first Afro-Indigenous students accepted, held high hopes of one day attending the prestigious institution.

Suddenly, the sound of approaching footsteps snapped him out of his hopeful reverie. His amber-colored eyes locked onto Mr. Franklin, the proud owner of the old bookstore. With a face that bore the gentle signs of age, Mr. Franklin exuded a radiance expected of someone who lived among tales of wonder. Andreigo couldn’t help but admire the man’s genuine nature, evident in his tweed vest and the faint traces of his beloved profession, like the ink stains on his lapel. It was clear that he absolutely loved books, and despite Mr. Franklin’s modesty, he had secretly dabbled in some writings of his own. “Good morning, Andreigo,” Mr. Franklin greeted, his voice holding the warmth and raspiness of a seasoned storyteller. Andreigo felt an involuntary smile tug at his lips. Visiting Gertrude’s always felt like coming home. “Hello Mr. Franklin,” he said, his eyes holding the store owner’s whimsical gaze. A tentative, hopeful note colored Mr. Franklin’s voice. “So, have you received any word from the Academy yet?” With a bright twinkle in his eyes, Andreigo opened his bookbag and teased, “Funny you should ask, sir.” He carefully pulled out a pristine white envelope, the Academy emblem shining proudly against the paper. “It just so happens that I received my letter the other day!” Mr. Franklin’s usually composed face suddenly transformed into a wide, joyful smile, accompanied by a hearty chuckle. “Well, aren’t you going to open it?” He asked eagerly. “Surely, you’ve been accepted. You’re such a bright young man, and with your stepfather being an alumnus and all, the odds are certainly stacked in your favor!” His eyes beamed with pride as he spoke. Andreigo, not wanting to get his hopes up, replied, “Well, my stepdad believes my grades will speak for themselves. Besides, it’s not certain yet, but as soon as Lillian gets here, we’ll know for sure. We’re going to find out the Academy’s decision for us both, simultaneously.” Mr. Franklin’s expression softened, clearly moved by the camaraderie between the two. “That’s truly a wonderful gesture, Andreigo. I sincerely hope you both get to experience this joy together.” Andreigo agreed. “Thank you, Mr. Franklin. I really hope so.”

The chime of the store’s old bell sounded, signaling a new visitor. As Andreigo turned, his heart raced in anticipation, hoping it was Lillian. No matter what happened, they had each other and always made the best of every situation. Except it wasn’t her, so Andreigo turned back to Mr. Franklin before the new customer could steal him away. “Do you have any new arrivals, sir?” he asked, his eyes searching the store as he moved toward the fantasy novel section—his absolute favorite. Mr. Franklin flashed the teen a knowing grin. “There are some new arrivals in the back that I think you might like,” he said, giving a quick wink as he pointed toward a stack of freshly unpacked boxes. “Much appreciated Mr. Franklin!” Andreigo replied, his curly hair bouncing freely as he rushed to the back of the store, where, over time, he had claimed his own private reading nook. After all, the store was practically his second home.

His fingers grazed the spines of books as he ambled along the rows of new arrivals yet to be put out for public viewing, feeling the history embedded within each work. Some books were worn and weary, their covers mottled with age, revealing stories passed down through generations. Others gleamed in their newness, their uncracked spines signifying tales yet untold. His fingers hesitated over the spines as he struggled to make a decision, and the rhythmic beat of his heart seemed to sync with the pace of his exploration. Here, Andreigo stood at the crossroads of towering bookshelves, each one filled to the brim with stories from countless worlds, adventures of heroes long gone, and tales of lands unknown. He pulled out a vibrant-colored novel, its title embossed in gold, but after skimming the blurb, he placed it back, a small sigh escaping his lips. The next one, with its minimalist cover and intriguing title, promised a journey filled with suspense. He held it for a moment, considering, but then set it back down. Amidst his search, his gaze landed on a familiar author. A book penned by the great Matéus Inglesworth, the renowned mathematics and psychology instructor from the very Academy he hoped to join. It would be practical to gain insight into the mind of a future instructor. But as he skimmed the first few pages, he realized that he wasn’t in the mood for academic musings about the human brain and how numbers affect our psyche, no matter how enlightening it all promised to be. Minutes felt like hours as he traversed one shelf after another. Adventure, mystery, romance, history—each genre called out to him, but none seemed to strike the chord he was looking for. A growing frustration welled up inside him. Here he was, surrounded by thousands of stories, and yet he felt lost. He sank into a cozy reading chair near the window, running a hand through his curly brown hair. The rays of the sun streamed through, painting a yellow hue over the pages scattered in his lap. It was ironic. On the brink of joining an esteemed Academy, eager to soak in knowledge, and yet he was struggling to choose a simple story to escape into. Closing his eyes, Andreigo took a deep breath. Perhaps it wasn’t the day to find a new tale. Perhaps, this time, he had to allow the stories to come to him, not the reverse. He gathered the books he’d considered and started placing them back on their respective shelves.

He paused, one book having caught his eye, and Andreigo, drawn to an old leather-bound volume that seemed to shimmer under the muted light, reached for it. It felt strangely warm, almost as if imbued with a life of its own. Its embossed cover showcased an intricate pattern, and the title, written in ornate lettering, promised tales of magic and wonder. Succumbing to curiosity, Andreigo slowly opened the book, its pages crackling softly under his touch. He began to read, immersing himself in a realm of sorcery and valor. Soon he was traveling alongside wizards wielding immense power and marveling at creatures of legend and lore. Each page turn was an adventure, leading him deeper into this captivating realm. When paired with the soft yellow glow of the bookstore’s lights, the muted sounds of people murmuring, and the scent of freshly brewed coffee from the adjacent café, the printed pages had become a haven for Andreigo. Deep within a world of knights and sorcery, he barely noticed the world around him, the words weaving their enchantment.

Suddenly, a shadow fell across his page. Startled, Andreigo looked up into the twinkling, hazel eyes of Lilly. With her wavy hair cascading around her face and her signature mischievous smile, she teased, “Who else would be nose-deep in a book but you?” His expression transformed from surprise to delight. “It’s the best way to lose yourself,” he countered with a grin. As she settled down next to him, her familiar scent of lavender and vanilla filled his senses. Their quaint reading corner, surrounded by tall wooden shelves, had become their formal meeting place to discuss semi-serious matters over the years. However, this time, the proximity of their seating was closer than he remembered, their knees almost touching. As she shifted, her hand brushed against his, sending an unanticipated jolt of warmth up his arm. “Guess what?” Her voice, filled with excitement, brought him back to the moment. His eyes darted to her bag as he reached for the Academy’s letter, now in his pocket. “Are you ready to see if we’re both going to Whimsly?” he quickly replied. She shook her head, playfully wagging a finger. “No, not quite, but it does have something to do with the Academy.” His brow furrowed. “Then what’s got you so excited?” Her grin widened. “My family has decided to host an exchange student for Whimsly Academy this school year.” His eyes widened in surprise. “That’s amazing! But… what if…” Lilly, always adept at reading him, finished his thought, “What if I don’t even get in? It would be awkward hosting someone from a school that rejected me.” Andreigo nodded, concern evident in his eyes. The prospect of her not getting admitted and then having to accommodate someone who did felt undeniably uncomfortable. Lilly, however, laughed at the thought. “I’m not that spiteful. And besides, it’s a chance to know someone from a different part of the world. Regardless of where I end up, that’s an experience in itself.” He admired her spirit, but couldn’t keep the worry out of his eyes. “It’s still a risk,” he murmured. She nudged him playfully, finally pulling the envelope out of her bag. “Well, we won’t know unless we check now, will we?” Andreigo pulled his letter from his pocket and they both read the opening sentence of their respective letters aloud, “Congratulations, you have been formally accepted to attend Whimsly Academy!” they both shouted simultaneously. Lilly leaped up, her joy unrestrained, and wrapped Andreigo in an ecstatic embrace. Surprised, he stumbled slightly, but then recovered, returning her hug with equal enthusiasm. With the weight of the acceptance letters still fresh in their hands, they couldn’t help but let their imaginations run wild. “Imagine the grand halls of Whimsly,” Andreigo began, his eyes twinkling with excitement. “The old walls, the statues… The secrets that must be hidden in every corner.” Lilly chuckled, “And the faculty! I’ve heard tales of instructor VonTruezle’s eccentric methods. They say she once suspended a student for not completing one of his homework assignments on time.” “Yeah, but only like a day, though, and I heard that he got an extension soon after,” Andreigo added sarcastically, grinning. “If only it were true!” Lilly bellowed, and their laughter echoed in the cozy nook. The future looked bright indeed.

The conversation shifted naturally to the newest addition to Lilly’s family, albeit temporarily. “So, tell me more about this exchange student,” Andreigo probed curiously. She shrugged. “I honestly don’t know much just yet. His name is Anu. He’s coming specifically to attend Whimsly Academy, so he’s got to be pretty smart or gifted, right?” Andreigo raised an eyebrow. “It’s going to be an experience, hosting someone from another part of the world. You’ll learn so much, even before the school term starts.” Before Lilly could respond, her phone chimed loudly, drawing her attention. Her face shifted from relaxed to a sudden urgency. “It’s my family. Anu’s plane just landed, and he’ll soon be on the next train into Willow Crest. I need to rush home.” Andreigo stood up, offering a comforting smile and a quick hug. “Go ahead. Anu will need a friendly face to welcome him.” Lilly nodded. “Thank you, Andreigo. We’ll catch up later, promise.” Without another word, she gathered her belongings and dashed out, leaving a whirlwind in her wake. Alone, the surrounding quiet once again settled in on Andreigo.

He looked around for a moment, letting the change in pace wash over him. The solace of the books and their tales welcomed him back as if congratulating him on his acceptance. Picking up his novel, he delved back into the world of magic and adventure, content with the knowledge of his own approaching magical journey. Soon, outside, the sun’s rays grew dim, casting stretching shadows on the bookstore’s wooden floor. The murmurs of other customers dwindled, and the clock on the wall continued its relentless march forward. But Andreigo was oblivious, ensnared by the book’s magic.

Then, as if breaking a spell, Mr. Franklin’s voice cut through his reverie. “It’s closing time, my boy.” Andreigo blinked, looking up in surprise. The realization dawned on him: he had been lost in the pages for hours. With a sheepish smile, he closed the book, the weight of the real world settling back onto his shoulders. “Lost in another world, were we?” Mr. Franklin remarked with a knowing twinkle in his eyes. Andreigo nodded, holding onto the book. “One I’d love to visit again soon,” he replied, knowing well he’d be back for more tales from this haven of stories. “Perhaps tomorrow, yes?” Mr. Franklin told him kindly, gently shaking his head, “But I must be getting home for dinner soon.” Fully awake from his literary stupor, Andreigo realized what the old bookstore owner was trying to tell him. “Oh, sorry sir, I always seem to lose track of time in here.” Mr. Franklin just chuckled, waving a dismissive hand through the air. “Never apologize for enjoying a good book. In fact, have it. It’s yours.” “Sir?” Andreigo questioned. “Consider it my official congratulations on your acceptance into Whimsly Academy,” Mr. Franklin said, tapping his nose. “Now go on. Safe trip home and please tell your mother I said hello.” With a quick thank you, Andreigo was soon up on his feet, eagerly collecting his things, feeling the excitement coursing through his veins as he left his secluded corner of the cozy bookstore. Clutching the book close to his chest like a mother protecting her newborn child, he stepped outside with the last rays of sunset. Smiling, he experienced that familiar thrill that came with every new book. No matter how often he lost himself in fictional realms, a part of him never wanted to be found.