Page 98 of The Holy Academy of Witches

“Ha!” I spat and regret flooded me instantly. My mothers fork paused halfway to her mouth. Her eyes slowly lifted to my own.

I must look like a cornered rabbit, the hounds salivating over my trembling body.

“I think you’ve had enough to eat now Adeline, you look full.” My mother said quietly. There was no mistaking her tone or what she was saying.Get out.

“Yes, mother,” I withdrew my chair and stood, placing my napkin on the table. I looked towards my aunt, dipping my head, “Lovely to see you Aunt Calista”. I looked to my father at the head of the table who was shaking his head in disappointment and I swallowed uncomfortably, “Father,” I said and retreated to my room without a backward glance.

My mouth was dry and my hands had a slight tremor as I let myself into my bedroom. Closing the door quietly, I leaned against it, waiting. When no one came, I undressed and turned to my desk. A little thrill ran through me knowing that if I had to tutor Sage at least I would get out of this house and I had certainly warmed to her this last couple of months.

* * *

After reading for a while, I got ready for bed. Donning my usual short silky pyjamas and entering my en-suite, I brushed my teeth and carried out my required beauty regime. The sound of crunching gravel outside had me crossing the room to look out of my nearest window.

My bedroom overlooked the large sweeping driveway which encompassed the front of the property. The creamy-coloured loose stones were bright in the moonlight as they sprayed from under the wheels of my fathers large car as it came to a halt.

My mother and father exited the house, dressed elegantly, and climbed into the back of the car. The driver nodded in greeting before resuming his position behind the wheel. I watched as the car pulled away, following the driveway till it paused as the entrance gates parted smoothly.

My phone chimed with a message from its position by my bed. Crossing the room, I sank down onto my mattress - taking the phone with me.

Teddy: Are you as bored as I am? xx

Adeline: Absolutely xx

Teddy: Knock knock…

I smiled, settling back against the pillows.

Adeline: Who’s there? xx

Teddy: Cash

Adeline: Cash who? x

Teddy: No thanks, but I’d love some peanuts! ??

Adeline: Oh my Gods, that was truly terrible ?? A real dad joke xx

Teddy: It was my dad who told me it! LOL xx

How did he have the ability to so effortlessly bring a smile to my face when no one else could.

Teddy: Your turn then…

I thought for a moment before typing out one of my favourite jokes.

Adeline: My dad died when we couldn’t remember his blood type… as he lay dying he kept insisting “B positive”… but it’s hard without him.

Teddy: ??

If Whole Foods sells sliced apples, is it false advertising?

Adeline: You are so bad at jokes lol xx

Two men broke into a pharmacy and stole all the Viagra. The police put out an alert to be on the lookout for twohardenedcriminals.

Teddy: LOL! Why are you so good at this?!

OK fine…

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