Hellbound Hearts

12. Unravelling the Motives

Since following Cody was out of the question, I decided to rely entirely on Kaja's senses and avoid going to the university for a few days. Though my mind kept spinning with scenarios and anxious thoughts about his well-being, I tried my best to focus on other things.

I took my time completing another small task at the bookstore. After the usual lunch rush, I finally cleaned up the messy countertops. As the day slowly shifts towards evening, I sigh with relief, glad to have made it through another tolerable day.

Leaning against the counter, I already anticipate the upcoming closing. My gaze drifts to the window. The sky's partly cloudy, but the sun persists, finding gaps to break through and casting cheerful rays onto the streets, brightening the day for everyone passing by. The interplay of light and shadow creates a serene yet dynamic scene, adding a touch of magic to the ordinary rhythm of life.

Still, the sun's persistence did nothing to dispel the apathetic drowsiness that had unexpectedly struck me. Time seems to drag on, the minutes ticking backward.

A cup of coffee for personal use wouldn't hurt. I fill the machine's filter with freshly ground beans, savoring the rich aroma as it quickly fills the room. With a final touch, I add warm milk to the cup, completing my creation.

With a lazy sigh, I sit down on an uncomfortable chair.  Despite its lack of comfort, it always helps to soothe my legs, tired from running around. The customers are busy with their own affairs, so I'm sure no one would scold me for taking this unauthorized break.

I sip the warm coffee, savoring its comforting heat and rich flavor. For a moment, I enjoy the quiet, the only sounds being the gentle clinking of cups, soft murmurs, and the distant hum of the city outside.

Suddenly, the doorbell rings, but I don't pay much attention. Customers rarely place orders right after entering, so I take another second to enjoy my brief break. After one more sip, I set the cup down and reluctantly stand up, straightening my apron. Eleonora always scolds us for wrinkled aprons, and her insistence on neatness had turned it into a habit—even when she wasn't here.

Approaching the cash register, I put on my signature customer service smile, finally glancing up at the hall, ready to greet the new customer.

"I'd like a hot chocolate."

Those words were enough to send my low enthusiasm skyrocketing. On the other side of the counter stands Cody—the very Cody whose name had been the most frequently recurring thought in my mind lately. Seeing him here sends a jolt of surprise and instant relief, though I quickly compose myself.

"Sure," I reply with a genuine smile. "Is that all?"

Cody lowers his eyes and hesitates, his lips trembling slightly as if he's rehearsing his next words. Finally, he looks up to meet my gaze.

"Sorry. Last time, I was kind of rude," he says, looking embarrassed. "And, um, one vanilla cupcake, please."

I can't help but smile again.

"Have a seat. I'll bring it right over," I say, diving into action.

In no time, I prepare two cups and a few pastries on a tray. Before heading over, I leave a sign at the bar informing customers that staff is on break. 

Cody had chosen a table in the corner by the window. Though the whole bookstore is undeniably cozy, that spot is particularly special in my eyes. It's slightly secluded from the noise inside and has a great view of the street. 

Cody's gazing out the window, lost in thought. He doesn't notice me approach until I set the tray down, and he turns, startled.

"It's just me," I smile, placing the cup and dessert in front of him and sitting in the empty chair across.

"Thanks," he smiles and immediately lifts the ceramic cup to his lips.

"I didn't expect to see you here again."

He remains silent for a moment, but his posture shows he'd heard me.

"To be honest, I didn't expect to be here either," he mutters, his gaze still on his cup. "But I didn't see you at the university. I kind of... need to talk to you again."

"Were you looking for me?" I tease lightly.

Cody's gaze shoots up.

"I wasn't actively searching," he replies with a slight frown. "I just didn't happen to see you around."

"I don't actually study there. Just had some business," I explain with a small smile.

"I see," he nods in understanding.

"Anyway, why were you looking for me?" I redirect the conversation.

"I wasn't exactly looking for you," he sighs, idly turning the cup's handle with his finger. "I just... wanted to ask something."

Cody's stalling, each second heightening my curiosity. I can't anticipate his question, leaving me in suspense, waiting eagerly for his next comment.

"Can an ordinary person defeat a demon?" he finally asks, catching me completely off guard.

His question plunges me into surprise. Technically, anyone could engage a demon in combat. A person could physically harm a demon's body, but things become far more complex when dealing with the esoteric. Without the skills of a hunter, no ordinary human could hope to expel the entity within.

"Why does this matter to you?" I respond with a question, trying to unravel the motive behind his inquiry.

Cody lets out a sigh, his expression betraying a hint of hopelessness.

"I've encountered demons before. Far more often than you might think. And somehow, they always seem to know where to find me."