Later, Charlotte, Virginia, Mr. and Mrs Slaphappy sat down to a dinner of chicken with fresh veggies from the family’s garden. Georgia had left earlier to go to her friend’s house. After eating, the girls went outside to try some tricks on broomsticks. Charlotte, who had only flown a broom a few times, picked it up very quickly and was soon doing loop-de-loops almost as good as Virginia. After playing for almost an hour, the two got tired and went inside. They munched on some of Mrs. Slaphappy’s Berry Berry Chocolatey cookies, then brushed their teeth and got into pajamas.
Later that night, Virginia and Charlotte were lying on the floor of Virginia’s bedroom, talking. The two were snuggled in their sleeping bags, Charlotte’s printed with dozens of wands, Virginia’s with lots of flying broomsticks.
“Why haven’t I seen you around before? We’re in the same building all day.” Virginia questioned Charlotte.
“We’re on different schedules. And, the advanced magic classrooms are at the other end of the school.” Charlotte replied.
“ You’re so lucky you’re in the advanced class.”
“Well, all of my friends are in basic level classes, so I only really see them on weekends. Ms. Veronica is really tough, too. I’d much rather be in basic with you.”
“Really? I wouldn’t. None of the girls are really my friends, especially one.”
“Who?”
“Melanie Goldfield. She always beats me at everything. If I was able to change a cat from black to white, she gives it the ability to change color according to mood! And she always has to rub it in! It is so aggravating!”
“That would drive me crazy.”
“Me too! And even if I try to be friendly and kind, congratulating her, and then dropping the subject, she just keeps on going!”
“You really need to stop her.”
“I know! But how?”
“Well... I know! You were awesome on that broom today, and there is a competition coming up soon! I’ve seen her enter for the past few years, so she’ll definitely be there. If you beat her at that, fair and square, maybe she’ll finally get it through her head that she can’t be the best at everything.”
“Great idea! But she’s won every year! How can I beat her?”
“The contest has three events- tricks, games, and a race. You’ve got most of the tricks down, and how hard can broom games be? Same with the race. So, I can help you practice everyday, and you’ll definitely take home the gold, at least in one event.”
“I can’t wait to get started! Thanks, Charlotte.”
“Anytime.”
The girls the snuggled down into their sleeping bags, and drifted to sleep.
The next morning, sunlight filtered through Virginia’s curtains. Her eyes fluttered open, and with a yawn, she sat up. Leaning back, she pulled down her clock and checked the time. It read 9: 14. Careful not to wake her too abruptly, Virginia gently shook Charlotte.
“Wake up,” whispered in Charlotte’s ear. Beneath a messy mass of red curls, Charlotte’s eyes slowly opened.
“What time is it?” she asked groggily.
“Nine fifteen. Don’t go back to sleep.”
“I-I’m t- tired.”
“My dad is probably making cinnamon french toast,” Virginia said, trying to persuade Charlotte to get up. Charlotte’s eyes opened wide
“Okay!”
Fifteen minutes- and six pieces of french toast - later, Charlotte had perked up.
“When do you think we should bring you home? We don’t mind you staying here, but maybe your parents want you home.” said Mrs. Slaphappy.
“Well, I don’t think we’re doing anything today, but you should probably talk to my mom.” said Charlotte. Mrs. Slaphappy then rose from her chair and walked to the phone. Soon, she was conversing with Charlotte’s mom.
“She said it’s fine for you to hang out longer. She suggested you’d come home around two.” Virginias mom said after she hung up the phone.
“Great!” exclaimed Charlotte. “I have a great idea for what we can do.” She winked at Virginia, and smiled.