“Wow!” Cassia breathed as Harvard University came into view. There were many cars in front of the dorm building with many people unloading things from them. “I want to go here!” “Get good grades and you’ll be able to.” Mica replied, beaming. “Why does ‘Sephie have to go?” Cassia’s lower lip trembled. “She needs to further her education.” “But couldn’t she do that back home?” “Harvard is the best college in the country. She needs to go here to prepare her for being a doctor.” “What kind of doctor?” “A pediatric surgeon.” “That’s a kid’s doctor, right? She wants to help sick kids? Like my age?” “Some will probably be your age. Some will be younger, some will be older.” “That’s so sad.” Cassia frowned. “But it’s good that Persephone is going to help them. She’ll make them better.” “Then I’m glad she’s going here.” “Me too.”
“Are you all right?” Nicholas asked, glancing at Persephone. She was shaking slightly. “J-just n-nerves.” Persephone replied. “Tell me about it.” “A-about what?” “Why you’re so nervous. It’s not just because you’re going to a bigger school.” “But that’s just it! It’s college! There’s no room for messing up! And what are you three going to do at home without me? Cassia’s going to be a wreck, how can I abandon her? And what if my powers get out of hand? And I have to have a roommate! How am I going to practice? And what if they don’t like me or I don’t like them? What will I do then?” “Calm down. First of all, we’ll get along fine. Don’t feel like you’re abandoning Cassia! You can call her any time you want and you can have her stay with you any time you want. She loves you and I’m sure she understands why you’re going to college. About the other stuff: yes, you’re going to have a roommate, just try to find common ground. Don’t worry, I know you’ll be able to find time to practice your powers and just remember not to do too many hand motions when you’re having a strong emotion.” “Really? Do you think I’ll do well?” “I know you’ll do excellently.” “Thanks, Nick.” “You’re welcome.”