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With as much strength and stealth as he could muster, Cor swung open the closet door, leapt in, and closed it shut, making minimal sound. He pressed his back against the door, mouth shut and listening carefully.
No footsteps.
No sing-song voice.
Cor let out a sigh of relief, slumping.
“Why, hello there.”
Cor immediately stiffened, eyes searching through the dark space. He whispered, “Who’s there?”
With a click, the overhanging light-bulb switched on, shining light upon a man Cor had never seen before. Dressed in a thick coat and a fedora, boosting wavy maroon hair and odd amber eyes, the mystery man gave a crooked grin.
“You may call me Ardyn,” he said, giving a bow. “I am the newest council member, sent here all the way from Niflheim.”
Cor raised an eyebrow. “And you’re hiding in a closet?”
“I have my reasons.” Ardyn wiped back some of his hair. “Besides, you’re one to talk, as another handsome man hiding in a closet.”
Handsome? Cor remained composed. “Believe me, I have a very good reason.”
Ardyn flashed teeth. “I bet mine is better than yours.”
“Oh really?” Cor stepped closer.
“Indeed! How about we exchange stories to find out?” Something in Ardyn’s eyes flashed. “And whoever has the better reason shall owe the other drinks!”
Cor resisted the urge to twitch. Just who did this man think he was!? At the same time… Cor couldn’t help but feel drawn in by his mystique. And, now looking at him closer… perhaps this Ardyn was a little bit handsome after all.
Cor nodded. “I accept your proposal.”
“Most excellent!” Ardyn gave a few claps in celebration. “And being that I have proposed, I shall go first! Now, it all began when I arrived and noticed this cat…”
As Cor listened, he couldn’t fight the small grin growing on his lips. Maybe it wasn’t such a bad thing that Regis had snuck into the sugar cabinet after all.