I nod and he sighs. ‘Think about it, Ivy. You practically leapt away from me because you thought I was going to kiss you. I wasn’t, as it happens, but it wasn’t nice knowing that’s how you felt about me.’

‘I’m sorry. I don’t know why I did that.’ Part of me does know, though. The way Tom leaned over me reminded me of how Merlin tried to kiss Moronoe in the glass tower. I was remembering my previous life without realising it. If I’m honest, I’m not sure how I would have reacted if Tom had tried to kiss me. I wasn’t ready then, and perhaps deep down he knew that.

‘Tom, you know I’m not the best at talking about my feelings, but I want you to know you mean a lot to me. I’m not sure what happened with those other girls, but I’m not going to change my mind.’ I pause, wishing this was easier. ‘Sorry, I’m rubbish at this.’

He smiles gently, his voice reassuring. ‘You’re doing fine.’

‘I don’t really have crushes, it’s not my thing. I just know that you make me laugh and I feel good when I’m with you. When you’re around everything feels better. I want to be with you all the time and …’

‘Steady on, Shorty, you’ll give me a big head.’ He pushes himself up to his feet with a smile and it feels like an invitation. I stand close to him, my neck craning upwards. His eyes look into mine and I hear his voice, despite his lips not moving.

I’m a terrible kisser. You won’t like it.

A tiny laugh escapes me. ‘There’s only one way to find out.’

He steps back, a look of confused alarm on his face. I expect him to ask me what just happened, but he shakes his head as if he’s imagining things. Placing his hands on my shoulders, he gives me an awkward smile. After everything we’ve been through, maybe now isn’t the time to be thinking about kissing me anyway.

A flash of light makes me turn my head. Morgan is standing on the metal platform, holding Merlin’s sceptre. She thrusts it into the portal and the red vapour turns white and pulls apart to reveal a forest of treetops. In the centre is a gleaming glass palace with a tower at one end. The witches cackle with joy and an unfamiliar emotion tugs at my breastbone. A sense of belonging blooms inside me and I know that I’m feeling what my sisters feel – their relief and happiness is so strong, my heart could burst. This is how it feels to be going home.