Captive{ated}

The scent of old paper and new beginnings always filled the bookstore, a comforting aroma that usually lulled me into a peaceful daze. But today, a smooth voice cut through the quiet, pulling me from the synopsis of a new young adult release. "Excuse me, miss, but could you help me for a moment?"
I shut the book, startled, and plastered on a practiced smile. "Of course."
Turning, I saw him for the first time. He stood a few inches taller than me, an embarrassed flush on his face, a copy of 'The Scarlet Letter' clutched in his hands. His short, dirty blonde hair was delightfully messy, and his hazel eyes, shifting from green to brown, held a spark I couldn't quite decipher. A strange nervousness fluttered in my chest, a feeling I hadn't anticipated on a quiet summer afternoon amidst the endless stories.
