I speed down the country lanes back to halls. What is Gran doing here? I thought they couldn’t come up? What does she want? How much has she told Vix? Forgetting my new name on a birthday card was bad enough, but turning up here and spilling the beans? She could ruin everything. If she hasn’t already. I park quickly and paint on a smile as I hurry up to Vix’s room. “Gran! Hi!” I rush in and give her a hug. “What are you doing here?” “It’s your birthday weekend—you knew I was coming to visit!” she laughs. “I’ve been looking forward to it for weeks!” “But... Aunt Grace said you guys couldn’t make it,” I tell her. “Oh, just because they can’t come doesn’t mean I’m going to miss my trip! I’m perfectly capable of getting on a train, you know! Besides, you can’t have a birthday without one of my cakes—it’s tradition!” Gran smiles. “Though Victoria was telling me that she made you one yesterday—and nearly burned down the building!” I glance at Vix.
