Tobi's POV
Waiting impatiently in the woods until nightfall was its own form of torture. I knew this was my only chance. If I waited any longer, I’d lose her completely.
I walked up the steps to the front entrance of The Witches Hat, every nerve ending on edge. A few guests glanced up from their books and conversations to stare at me. I caught my reflection in an old mirror hanging near the common room fireplace and winced. Dirt clung to my skin and clothes. My shirt was torn at the hem, and one of my sleeves had split at the seam. No wonder people were staring. I looked feral.
“Tobi! Over here,” I heard Moira call gently from behind the counter. My stomach clenched. Please don’t make me leave, I silently begged as I approached.
“Hello, Moira,” I greeted her formally, trying to look le
