LEO (thoughts) "did a talking squirrel just tell me I'd been chosen? Chosen for what?"
Whiskers hopped onto the library table, flicking his tail impatiently.
WHISKERS "Listen, kid. That book you found? It's not supposed to be here. And that paper? That's a key."
Leo glanced down at the faded slip of paper.
LEO (thoughts) "A key? It looked more like an old bookmark."
But before he could ask, the symbols on the paper started glowing again, brighter this time.
WHISKERS "You have five minutes before the library closes,"
Whiskers warned, darting toward the stairs.
WHISKERS "Trust me, kid—if you don't check it out, you'll regret it."
Leo didn't have time to argue. With the mysterious squirrel leading the way, he rushed up the stairs. The third floor was mostly empty—a place filled with old books that nobody ever borrowed.Then, he saw it.
An ancient clock. The one that everyone questioned, as it stood in the corner, ticking softly.
Leo hesitated.
LEO (thoughts) "If I push this… everything changes."
WHISKERS "Push it. Before it decides you're not ready."
Whiskers whispered.
"Just do it."
Taking a deep breath, Leo pressed his hands against the side of the clock—
and suddenly, the back wall shifted, revealing a narrow hidden doorway leading into darkness.
Leo's eyes widened.
WHISKERS (grinning) "Well? Are you gonna stand there, or are we going in?"