They did exchange one more kiss — down by the boathouse, away from prying eyes and unwanted interruptions.

"That was nice," Anneka said as they parted.

"Yeah, I suppose," Lori agreed.

“Didn’t you like it?” Anneka’s brow creased with concern.

“It’s not that. I don’t know, I suppose I expected something more.”

“Maybe I didn’t do it right.”

“No, I’m pretty sure you did. I guess, maybe… I don’t know. Maybe I’m not ready for this… Yet.”

Anneka dropped her gaze. Lori reached out for her friend’s hand and gave it a squeeze.

“Maybe I’m just too caught up in what I’m going through right now. I mean I like you — you know, like really like you. It’s just…”

Anneka lifted her head and offered a fragile smile. “It’s okay, I mean we have loads of time, don’t we? This doesn’t have to be a now thing. It doesn’t change things between us, does it?”

Loris squeezed again. “Of course not. I mean friends first and forever, right?"

Anneka forced her smile a little wider. "Friends first and forever."

High up in the castle, Minerva's office gave her a clear view. She didn't like spying on pupils, but she’d been concerned. She let out a relieved sigh.

"Well," she murmured to herself, "there’s at least one problem can be put off for another day.”