The castle was infinitely better in the daylight. Now that she could finally [i]see[/i] everything, Sadie’s head kept whipping back and forth, wonder painted across her face. A castle. She lived in a [i]castle[/i]. How was this even her life right now? How had she been so fantastically lucky to be a witch and live in a castle in such a mythical landscape? She felt like she was in a movie, clicking across the courtyard. The crisp air was so [i]real[/i], stinging her cheeks. How would seven years ever be enough to marvel over this wonder?

She hitched her bag more securely on her shoulder, quickening her pace to catch back up after the distraction of gobstones and the light glittering off the most beautiful clock she had ever seen. Sadie had opened her mouth to ask for the map when they were joined by a pair of older boys. She recognized George’s brother—whom her own had looked ready to murder, she remembered with a wince. He hadn’t seemed to have forgotten that. Sadie was grateful for the distraction of the other upperclassmen, who seemed several million times friendlier. 

With a glance to her companions, she obediently followed. He—Max—was… chipper. She felt a little more at ease, even with her nerves coiling in her stomach. Class. Her first [i]class[/i]. She’d waited so long for this, hoped for so much… she had to be the best. She was going to learn [i]everything[/i]. Because [i]magic[/i]. 

“Seine Jordan,” her taller companion offered, a heavy brow quirked. Sadie waved a little, bouncing as she walked.

“Sadie Ethans. It’s—[i]ooh[/i]!” The [i]bridge[/i]! She hadn’t meant to get distracted, but the [i]view[/i]! She darted on ahead, red hair flouncing, undoubtedly mussing up the braid Asenath had woven so expertly that morning. She bounced, leaning out across the railing as far as she could, utterly enamored. The misty valley was beyond beautiful—Sadie laughed in delight, dropping back to her feet to bounce. She heard Seine’s snort of amusement, but she couldn’t muster any embarrassment. “That,” she informed them brightly, “Is officially The Best View in the History of Views. Full stop.”