AVELORA "What is going on?" I asked as I landed on his chest with a loud thump. "You better have a good explanation for not letting me say goodbye to my friend." I could feel the sound of his heart beating. But instead of the calm, steady rhythm of a man who felt he was always in control, it was fast, almost matching mine. He let me go finally, his face communicated nothing but that stupid, stoic, and impenetrable shield. "Where have you been?" "I remember telling you I was going to the library with Miles." It was as if a switch went off in his head as soon as Miles's name was mentioned. "Oh, pardon me for being the only one caring about our arrangement while all you want to do is make friends." Is he for real? "What? Making friends?" I yelled, my voice carrying more than I expect

