The Secret of Moonacre - SECRECY

Chapter 24

The days before I was ready to return back to London went by in a wizz. Sleeping in Robin's room to consume my nightmares was proving helpful and I was beginning to sleep easier.

Digweed had the coach ready for Ms Heliotrope and I. Our bags were loaded and all that was left was to say goodbye, which was the worst part of all. There was only Loveday, Uncle and Robin to say goodbye to as the Couer De Noir was on errands, and Marmaduke busy foraging as always.

Saying goodbye to Loveday and Uncle Benjamin wasn't going to be easy, but I pulled myself together and took a deep breath.

"Don't you worry, those pups are in excellent hands," Loveday had said.

"Yes, I doubt they are going to know the difference between a human and canine mother," Uncle added rubbing Loveday's shoulder.

I laughed at his remark "I doubt they shall."

"Take care Maria, see you soon." Loveday kissed my cheek.

"Do your best in your subjects dear girl! Get those degrees and you can return quickly with flying colours!" Uncle said wrapping me in a hug. We hadn't told him about getting the documents from Jessie's father so he thought that I would be working hard at college.

"I shall Uncle. Good bye and see you in a few weeks" I said pulling away.

"Good bye Maria"

I then turned to Robin who was sulking against the wooden door. I turned his face to look at me and he looked almost close to tears.

"Don't be sad Robin, I shall be back before you know it" I assured.

He only nodded so I kissed him lightly.

"I promise I'll be back soon" I repeated, wrapping my hands around his waist. "I promise"

"Just don't get too comfortable with Jessie" He cautioned.

I sighed and laughed "You don't have to worry about that" I pointed at my heart "This belongs here" and pointed to his heart.

He seemed to lighten up "If that's all then"

I nodded "Yes, I love you"

He smirked "I love you too"

He kissed me and I left for the carriage, looking back at Loveday who seemed overwhelmed with loveliness.

I waved goodbye out of the window and Digweed drew the carriage away back to London.

Halfway through the trip I was gazing out the window looking quite sorry.

"Maria, are you alright?" Ms Heliotrope wondered, looking up from her novel.

"Yes Ms Heliotrope, I am quite alright" I answered, even though deep down, I knew that I was already homesick.

* * * * * * * * *

I was back unpacking things in my room with Charlotte who was telling me about her trip to the seaside which she was very pleased with. I listened to her for as long as I could until I eventually started to feel quite tired. Charlotte realised that and happily let me fumble around and go to sleep.

"Maria! Maria! Wake up Maria!" A voice shouted next to me a meer few hours into the night.

I jolted awake and felt a hot flush.

"Girls, out of my way immediately!" A familiar voice said. I was crowded by Charlotte and a few other girls that slept on the same floor as me that were staring down in shock.

"Maria dear child. What in heavens is wrong?"

"Where is Robin?" I stared at Ms Heliotrope confused.