12
Elle
It’s a short walk over to Cynder, but it’s sure a wacky one.
Humans stride around us. Magicorum do too. Each time, folks simply sidestep me and Alec without so much as a glance in our direction. It’s an intricate dance of magic. Combine that with how Alec and I are black and white while the world around us stays in color, and I almost forget the serious reason I’m meeting up with Alec today.
Almost.
Minutes later, Alec and I stand before Cynder Mercantile. The store’s brick exterior is covered in graffiti. The door hangs cockeyed on its hinges. One solid push and you could get inside.
Who leaves opened doors in the city?
When I next speak, my voice comes out as a choked whisper. “This isn’t how I left the place.” Letting go of Alec’s arm, I hug my elbows. “Can you cast a det
