When Hayley awoke the following morning, she found her bags lying at the foot of her bed.

After locating Maddie in her room, Hayley began her questioning.

"Why were my bags laid out?"

"Good morning." Maddie turned to face Hayley. Her tone revealed surprise at Hayley's sudden entry. "I retrieved them from your closet yesterday evening, before you retired."

"I asked why they are there."

"It was decided late last night, and we did not wish to disturb you."

"You said you put my bags out before I retired, and yet the decision to return home was made late last night."

"Your father will have to discuss that with you."

"And if I decide I am not ready to leave?"

Maddie picked up her hairbrush and smoothed her hair with it. She smiled softly at Hayley through the mirror, and gave an expression that told Hayley she would answer nothing else.

_ _

"But Father! I do not understand why I must leave!"

"There is no reason for you to be here any longer. I have not been able to spend time with you as I had hoped. It is time for you to return home."

"I can continue my studies at the library, so there is no need to leave now."

"Yes and I have been paying handsomely for your lessons, I might add. I'm sure you are aware that your tutor is still getting paid, though he is not actively involved in your education while you are here."