Alice,

No, I suppose you don't have to be competitive but it just kind of feels like eveyone would be. Like if I'm not, it means I can't be as passionate about as they might be, even if it's silly. Besides, I have the flower shop and the zoo I can work at and I love those just as much. I've gotten into potions a lot lately. My grades have started improving enough that Professor Valenduris let me continue even if I really shouldn't have. I'm think maybe I can do something like the magical equivalent of what muggles call a veterinarian. An animal doctor. And then I could treat pets outside the zoo in the evening hours too.

But you are very sweet of you to say though. But I think then, I didn't have as much of my own sense of self. Besides, I'm not smart. I don't do well enough in class to stand out to the professors - I would have been just another Potts girl then, living in my sisters' shadows. That's just what it's like to be the youngest. So many paths have already been taken, it is hard to find your own. Wait till Aine is older and she'll say the same. I'm sure even Bridget feels it. You do leave big shoes to fill Alice.

Once you finish your training, your wages will increase and maybe you could do something on the sides? You are good enough you could sell potions or something. But you'll be able to find your own place then - even if it takes roommates. Or you could find a place with Ned depending on the timing.
your friend,
Calla