Home Runs and Heart Beats

Chapter Three

After waiting for a few moments, the student worker, who Ella learned was named Adam, emerged from a side room, with a surprisingly young-looking lady in tow.

"You must be Ella," she said, smiling kindly. "I'm Stephanie, the head librarian here at the Northview."

Ella gazed up at the woman in front of her. Her long, sun-kissed blonde hair was neatly swept back into a stylish bun that showcased her bright blue eyes and fair complexion. She had a youthful aura about her, and her attire, a black pencil skirt, and white button-up shirt added to her professional yet approachable charm.

"Hi," she said, smiling shyly. "Um, Dr. Halle recommended I come here regarding the open position for the overnight shift.

Stephanie's smile widened. It seemed like a lot of people here loved to smile. "Yes, I just got off the phone with Bryan. He couldn't stress enough that you were the perfect candidate for this job.

Ella fought back the urge to roll her eyes. Of course, he would. He probably felt guilty about her funding.

"Okay," she said, standing up from the chair. "When do I start?"

The librarian laughed, tocking a few stray pieces of blonde hair behind her ear. "Well, I'd love to hire you right away, but by university policy, I am required to do an interview."

Oh.." Ella said, fidgeting nervously. It wasn't her first interview or job for that matter. But she wasn't really prepared for any probing interview questions at the moment. She'd only gotten like four hours of sleep since arriving at the university.

"Don't worry, Ella, it's not going to be a stressful interview," Stephanie reassured her. "It's mostly a formality, and I just want to get to know you a bit. Come with me, we'll keep it casual.

She sighed in relief.

They settled into a cozy corner of the library where soft armchairs and low tables invited students to study or chat. Stephanie gestured for Ella to sit, and she took a seat across from her, both of them sinking comfortably into the chairs.

"So, Ella," Stephanie began with a friendly smile, "tell me a bit about yourself. What brings you to Northview University?"

Ella leaned back, trying to relax. "Well, I transferred here to continue my research in communication studies. I'm passionate about media representation, especially when it comes to cryptids like Bigfoot and Mothman. I've always been fascinated by how these legends impact society's beliefs."

Stephanie's eyes lit up with interest. "That sounds fascinating! So you'll be investigating cryptids like Bigfoot and Werewolves."

Ella felt herself blush at the compliment. "Thank you. I'm actually more interested in studying local folklore, so I guess I'll be doing some digging on the research on and around town."

The librarian hummed thoughtfully. "Then I guess I'll be seeing you in the library archives now and then. We've got some pretty interesting records and accounts on local folklore."

"Oh, wow," Ella said, feeling excitement bubbling within her. "I'd absolutely love to check those out sometime." She hesitated. "If you'll allow it.

Stephanie leaned forward and smiled, "Ella, I think you're going to be a wonderful addition to our library team. The overnight shift can be quiet, but it's also a time for students to focus on their work without distractions. You'll be a guardian of knowledge, so to speak."

"Wait," Ella said, dumbfounded. "That's it, you're not going to ask any more questions?"

The woman in front of her raised a perfectly plucked brow. "Do you want me to?"