Evaline:
The next week blurred by in snow-flecked mornings, packed halls, and more tests stacked like frosted cookies. Every afternoon felt like a sprint to Friday, and then suddenly the bell rang on the last class of the week... and with it, fifteen days of holiday freedom burst open like the academy gates themselves.
Almost all the students hurried out by Friday afternoon, not waiting for the official departure on Saturday. Instead of lingering by the oak benches to say goodbye, they dashed toward the Academy gates with their luggages.
My friends were no different. Most of them, especially Mallory and Ria, had their luggage packed the night before. Now, we all were gathered in our dorm's common room to bid goodbyes to each other.
Ria was first to leave. She threw quick smiles and hugs before grabbing her suitcase. "Enjoy the break guys! And let's stay in contact." And then she was gone.
