“I did and I think you’re crazy for not going with him.”
“What? You’re not serious. I can’t go with him. I barely even know him.”
“I saw the way you two were looking at each other. I just hope someone looks at me that way someday.”
“We…we weren’t looking at each other like anything.”
“I’ve never seen two people more in love.”
“He doesn’t love me. He hardly knows me.”
“Who cares? Go see him and he’ll get to know you.”
“No he won’t because I’m not going.”
“Why not?” Tabby sounded angry, her voice colder.
“Because.”
“Not because. Because why?”
“Because it would be crazy. I can’t go live in the Middle Ages. It’s insane.”
“Any more insane than turning your back on your soulmate because you’re scared of giving it a try?”
“I’m not scared.” Daisy wanted to sound stronger than she did but the words were weak, almost a whisper.
“Yes, you are. You’re scared because it might work and if it works, you’ll stay there and be happy and you’re scared of being happy.”
“No, I’m not. I’m…”
“You’re what?”
“I’m scared I’ll never see you again.”
Tabby leaned over, putting the silver key in Daisy’s hand and closing her fingers around it. “We will see each other anytime we want. Just use the key and come visit. That is not a reason to stay here. Try again.”
“What if you’re wrong? What if he doesn’t like me?”
“Are you crazy? Did you forget the kiss already?”
Daisy shook her head. She would never forget the kiss.
“Then go and pack right now before the magic wears off or something.”
“You think it might?” Daisy hadn’t considered that. She’d thought the decision was up to her. The idea of it being taken out of her hands was more scary than anything else. “Oh, crumbs. I don’t know what to do.”
“I do,” Tabby said, pulling her to her feet. “The key is in your hand. All you have to do is unlock the door.”
Daisy looked at her housemate who was smiling warmly at her. She threw her arms around her. “Thank you.”
“What for?” Tabby asked.
“For being you.”
Then she went through to her room and pulled out a suitcase. What would she need to take with her? What couldn’t she live without? She realized there wasn’t much.
She packed toothpaste and toothbrush, a change of clothes, the plainest shoes she had, and plenty of paper and pens.
