"Maybe, if I'm around, you can use my carpet to float on up to your room without jostling you," Autor murmurs, staring at his knees. "In any case, I hope you're out of here soon."

The boy swallows, curling his shoulders. "But do you mind if I read in the corner or something until one of us has to leave?" he asks. "I won't be offended if you say no! It's kind of a strange request and you need privacy and I likely don't even have the right to ask given that I... well, that I yelled at you. Earlier."