Whitney Writes…

“Nonsense,” Enid said, “we can’t all be the high-profile educators teaching our children about dark magic, and transformation, and teleportation and the like.” She smiled a wistful smile. “I wanted to teach Astronomy when I was a girl.”

“Ah, the study of the stars,” Elliot exclaimed, “my father is a hobbyist astronomer! We went on many star-studying camping trips when I was young, he and I. How did you go from wanting to teach about the stars to owning the lovely little pastry shop in town? While I am extremely glad to have access to your delicious baking, I can’t help but wonder as to what dimmed the light of the astronomy dream?”

Cirice watched her mother blush. “Well, you see, I met a handsome young wizard who was well on his way to a sparkling career in politics. When it became clear that we were quite serious, my mother sat me down and told me that it would not be proper for a Minister’s wife to be a professor.”

“That seems a bit… backwards thinking,” Elliot said.

Enid shrugged. “Those were the times, dearie. She had told me I had always done such wonderful baking, so she suggested I pursue that, instead.”

“And what did Mr. Forge say about you giving up your dream to become a ‘proper’ wife?”

“Oh, don’t be silly, dear!” Enid exclaimed, “I never told him!”

“Never told me what?” came Cirice’s father’s voice from the entry hall.

“Never you mind!” Enid said with a wink to Elliot and Cirice. “What kept you, darling? The roast will be blackened by the time we eat!”

Cirice’s father came into the living room, ducking his head under the beam in the doorway. “There’s some… muggle writer being reckless,” he grumbled. His dark gaze turned to Cirice. “I suspect it’s coming your way, darling girl, if you don’t know about it already.”

Inktober 2025, Prompt #8: RECKLESS🧡🖤👻🎃