Chapter52:

I scurried to their room. It was early morning and I was hoping they would wake up. I raised my hand to knock.       They opened before I could tap. Mom's worried face was in front of me, "Sweetie!" She breathed heavily.        She opened her mouth again, eyes concerned and big. I cut her off, "Can I talk to both?" I asked.        "Did you find the book? Are you here for permission?" Mom inhaled deeply.       I arched my eyebrows. I wouldn't come to ask for permission, but to tell her my decision, "We haven't found the book." I said.        Her hand shot to her chest and she took deep breaths. Her smile returned. She knew the danger lying ahead on the path.       "Come in, Emma," Charles said from behind. He was wearing casual clothes instead of a dark suit.       "Are you going somewhere?" I asked.       They exchanged looks but didn't utter a word. Mom held my hand and pushed me on the couch near the hearth. The warmth felt good. I pulled my legs up to get more comfortable.        "S