A Pinch of Moonlight

  ***

  An hour later, as Vicky went upstairs, she heard a quiet but fierce argument from Demi-Lee’s room. She went in to tell them to keep it down. At least Demi-Lee had had the sense to use the bedside lamp not the ceiling light, and Blackbird had slipped into the shadows and clutter. Vicky closed the door firmly behind her before asking what the problem was.

  ‘He’s leaving us!’ Demi-Lee fumed. ‘At the next full moon, not the one in August.’

  Vicky just stared at them in confusion. ‘Why, Blackbird?’

  ‘Because Demi’s magic is stronger than I hoped,’ he replied. ‘I know she can do the egg spell now; no need to wait. And I can’t stand another month so helpless. I may not even survive it.’

  Demi-Lee was about to respond, but Vicky stopped her. ‘We’ll discuss this tomorrow when Mum and Dad are out. Meanwhile, I think you’d better sleep in my room tonight, Blackbird.’