February 13, 2000
Dearest Jane,
I believe I am in love with what I am sure is going to become one of my homes away from home. It is called Bay Books and is owned by a charming, intelligent, knowledgeable bibliophile named Frank Castle. As I was out and about running some errands last night, I noticed a book store that was still open. Not one to deny my own bibliophilic tendencies, I paid it a visit. It was an incredibly wise move.
The store was empty, save a large man with beautiful black hair. He immediately straightened up as I came in and greeted me. We made the usual small talk. I noticed he was very polite - something a bit unusual in the Bay Area. After that, we got to the central issue. What kind of book was I looking for? I could tell that he was honestly interested in what it was that I wanted to read.
I tossed out an off hand about looking for a book on Hermetic magic. He stunned me by asking what era, author and version. Then suggested some for me. I had read them all already. One of them was even quite worth it. As we warmed to the subject, I discovered Frank truly loves books. ALL books. He knew just about every book I mentioned. Some of them, he knew of versions I had not even heard of. He also has a keen memory. It was a real joy to speak with him.
Somehow, we turned to the subject of rare Enochian artifacts. He had two books I have been searching for - for years. They are part of his personal collection but he insisted that I borrow them immediately so that he would have someone to discuss them with. This man even gave me a short lesson on the printing method used to make these two antique manuscripts.
I ended up spending most of the evening there. The store closed at midnight but Frank invited me to stay for tea - which I gladly accepted. He gave me a personal tour of the store, showing me each section with pride. Most of his books are of the normal mundane variety - though he does specialize in rare and unusual books. He does have an impressive occult section open to the public and an even more impressive private library filled with books I never knew existed.
I can see myself spending many of my free nights enjoying the store and Frank's company.
Love,
Kayley
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