A shrill whistle sounded, and all the train doors closed. Steam billowed from the engine as it began to move forward with a clatter. Wade waved out the window, watching his father's figure gradually recede.
He turned and sat down, his heart heavy.
The Book of Friends grew faintly warm. When he opened it, he saw several new lines on the first page—
Fiona: Has the journey been smooth? The train should have left by now, right?
Fiona: Miss Eva seems a little unhappy. I think it might be because you didn't take her with you.
Fiona: Is it cold on the train?
Wade smiled and took out his pen, replying line by line—
Wade: The journey has been smooth. The train just left, and Dad should already be on his way home.
If Miss Eva is unhappy, maybe you could give her some dried fish? That's her favorite snack. I remember it's on the second shelf in the cupboard. Or perhaps some beetles or dried locust. She'll be happy with those too—but don't let her eat too much, or it might upset her stomach.
Of course, you surely already know all that.
Also, the train probably has a Warming Charm to keep the temperature steady, so it isn't cold. The scarf is very warm too.
I'll remember to take more photos.
"Hi, Wade!" Just as Wade was putting down his pen, Michael poked his head in and said happily, "I knew you'd be in this direction—guys, over here!"
He waved in another direction, then dragged his trunk into the compartment, saying excitedly, "Big news, right, Wade?"
"—What?" Wade was somewhat confused.
"Of course, the Book of Friends!"
Michael pulled out his Wand, floated his trunk onto the luggage rack, then sat down and said, "Before term started, my parents