Alice had retreated to bed as soon as her exams had concluded. The exhaustion she'd been avoiding for months had slammed into her like a fast moving train, leaving her limbs feeling as though they were full of lead. Truthfully, were it not for the blistering hot temperature of the dormitory Alice might've been able to sleep for a week straight. Not even being only in her chemise could keep her cool enough, though, so she had summoned a large pitcher of water as the door opened.

Alice wasn't sure when she stopped taking note of Sloane's dressing habits (perhaps when the final push towards OWLs had begun?) but as she caught sight of her friend's half opened bodice a deep blush spread across her cheeks. Mercifully, this blush could easily be explained by the heat, but Alice still felt the too-familiar confusion their Christmas kiss had gifted her. A few more weeks and they'd never have to face this situation again. Sloane could continue on doing ... whatever she was doing with Cameron, and she could focus on whatever profession she settled upon.

"You should've brought a parasol." She chastised gently. "Your cheeks will sting later."

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