Nellie and Penelope unloaded their suitcases and sat down for a cup of tea. “That was a long train ride, but it’s good to be home.” Penelope picked a chocolate biscuit off a plate.

     “It’s been years since I’ve been to Truro, Pen. The house hasn’t changed much. Maybe tomorrow you can take me into town and show me around,” Nellie said.

     “We can do some shopping and have lunch at the pub. It’ll be like old times when we were younger.” Penelope chuckled.

     The doorbell rang. “Who can that be?” Nellie put her cup down. “Do you usually get visitors at this time of night, Pen?”

     “Just sit where you are. It’s probably Jenny Mills from next door checking up on me.” Penelope turned on the porch light and opened the door. “Drayton.” She nearly fainted with fear.

     “Mum, Mum, it’s all right. I’m not going to hurt you,” Drayton said. “May I come in?”

     Penelope looked at her son, who never used manners before. “Yes. Come in.”

     “Drayton,” Nellie said. “I hope you’re not here to cause trouble. Your mum’s been through a lot with you.”

     Drayton sat on the couch and smiled. “I know. Mum, I’m so sorry for all the pain I’ve caused you during my life.” He took her hand in his. “I’ve changed. I went to Xilia with the wizards. I was near death. They healed me and taught me things. It made me realize how horrible I’ve been to you and to you, Auntie Nellie. Please forgive me.”

     Penelope wiped tears from her eyes and hugged her son. “I forgive you, Drayton.” She held him and cried for several minutes. Nellie took her turn too.

     “I want you to come back to Inveralba with me. I’m not staying long. I’m going to finish my training to be a wizard. I’ve met a wizardress.” Drayton blushed.

     “You’re a handsome lad when you smile, young man,” Nellie said. “What’s her name?”

     “Her name is Sapphiremist. We are to be married once I complete my training. She’s just like you, Mum; kind, gentle, forgiving and she loves me.” Drayton’s heart filled with love just thinking of her.

     “Drayton, dear, we just got back after a long train ride. I don’t think I’m up to getting back on the train again,” Penelope said.

     “We won’t be going by train. Remember, I’m a wizard now, Mum. We’re going by Wizard Rail.” Drayton burst out laughing. “Grab your bags.” Drayton held them. “Hold onto my robe and close your eyes.”

     When they opened them, they were in Nellie’s house in Inveralba. Penelope laughed. “I think I’m going to like having a wizard for a son. Will you bring Sapphiremist to meet us? Am I going to have grandchildren someday?”

     “Oh, Mum, you’re so silly.” Drayton kissed her cheek. “I must go now, Mum. I’ll come back and visit you often. I’d like it if you stayed here in Inveralba with Nellie. I’ll make sure all your things are brought to you and the house is sold. You just relax. It’s time I pampered you for once in my life. Oh forgive me, Mum. I love you.” Drayton picked her up and held her. He set her down again and disappeared. Nellie and Penelope stood looking at each other, neither saying a word.