Derek was a little startled at the sudden hug and rush of emotion, though he caught her and tentatively patted her back soothingly, still a tad bit stunned at the force of her gratitude but glad he could help and make someone feel so thankful.
That brought a wide smile and a lot of nodding. More books — books were important. Summer bounced at Derek, on her toes, eager and hopeful. Memories, fading back in very slowly, suggested that if she could see books, touch books, read, maybe more would come back — she had forgotten how much she loved to read. How could she forget that?
Derek grinned at the enthusiasm from her. He gently took one of her hands and walked to a room just a door down from him. It was technically a small office space, but instead of a desk there was a small couch and three shelves, all filled with books.
Following behind, she clasped her hands in delight and flung her arms around Derek, before rushing over to the shelves. She trailed her fingers over the spines of the books, breathlessly reading over titles. Occasionally she picked one off the shelf and looked at the back of it. Every touch was reverent, and her eyes shone, even as she totally forgot Derek’s presence.