Jasmine's smile faltered, she tried to deny it but the look on Ivy's face was so stern.
"Yes, Ivy, I know, but before you judge me, i have a perfect explanation. My parents made me vow never to disclose it to you. They wanted to protect you" , Jasmine said, lowering her eyes.
Ivy smiled "I understand you. I am not mad at you. I would have done the same. I just wished that this part of my life wasn't kept away from me".
Jasmine pulled her into a hug " Cousins for life! Now, we can hex all our teachers at school together. It would be so cool, and you could help me make a love potion for our new neighbor" she raised her eyebrows playfully.
After freshening up and joining her family for breakfast, Ivy took a deep breath and interrupted her aunt, who seemed ready to speak.
"Aunt Cecilia, Uncle Ambrose, I understand why you tried to protect me. I am sorry for storming out last night. I just needed time to process everything".
Her aunt and uncle exchanged a relieved smile.
" We're sorry too Ivy, we should have been more open with you. We love you so much and from now henceforth, there would be no more secrets" her aunt said.
"Mom, I've never seen you so serious. Anyways, I'm sorry to break this little reunion or whatever, but I really don't want to be late to Miss Thompson's class", Jasmine said, bursting into laughter.
As they got to school, they spotted Simon standing in the school's hallway.
"How's my little witch doing?" Simon called out.
Ivy's eyes widened and she motioned for Simon to lower his voice
"Simon keep it down! We dont want the whole school to know that I am what i am" Ivy whispered.
Jasmine raised an eyebrow, curiosity evident in her eyes. " Wait this dumbass knows?"
Ivy nodded, a mischievous glint in her eyes. " Yeah, I actually went to his place last night after i discovered that.... eerrm.. but don't worry, he will keep it a secret".
Jasmine chuckled, shaking her head. " Goodluck with that. You know Simon can't keep his mouth shut about anything. I'll see you guys in class". She waved and headed off to class.
As Ivy and Simon walked to class, Simon couldn't help but pester Ivy with questions. " So how's the witchcraft coming along? Have you mastered any new spells?".
Ivy grinned, playfully nudging him " Oh, you know my dear Simon, a witch never reaveals her secret , but lets say I'm always brewing up something interesting. Seriously, Simon, I have no idea how this whole thing works", she exhaled.
Simon laughed uncontrollably, " We'll figure it out , with time. Maybe you can start by bringing my dead cat back to life".
Just then, the school bell rang, signalling the start of classes.
Classes went on and the final bell rang. Simon and Ivy met up outside the school. Simon's mom pulled up in her car, ready to take him home.
Ivy sighed "I need to tell you something. I got an idea in class. Remember what you said about bringing your dead cat back to life? I think that I want to try bringing my parents back to life".
Simon laughed, thinking Ivy was joking " Oh come on Ivy, you thought I was serious about that? You know it's impossible to bring the dead back to life. That's just ridiculous!"
Ivy's expression remained serious. " Simon, they are dead because of me, if there's any chance I have to bring them back, I will take it".
Simon's laughter slowy died down "I understand that you feel it's your fault, but lets be realistic, ressurecting the dead is not something you can just do".
Hilda honked the car horn signalling, that it was time to leave. Simon gave Ivy a supportive pat on the back " Don't do anything stupid".
They exchanged goodbyes, and Ivy watched as Hilda's car drove away.
Determination burned in Ivy's eyes as she made her way home, ready to dive into her newfound magical abilities and find a way to bring her parents back.
Ivy quietly entered Jasmine's room when she got home. Jasmine was known for her ability to fall asleep at lightening speed. Ivy gently shook Jasmine's shoulder, hoping to rouse her from her slumber.
Jasmined stirred, mumbling unintelligent words. Ivy chuckled softly, amused by Jasmine's sleepy ramblings.
"Jasmine wake up, i need to talk to you" Ivy whispered.
Jasmine's eyes fluttered open, still clouded with sleep. " What? Why would you interrupt my beauty nap? She grumbled, rubbing her eyes.
Ivy sighed, her mind still consumed by the thought of resurrecting her parents " I have an idea, Jasmine".
Jasmine yawned, her curiosity piqued. " What idea? She asked, her voice laced with drowsiness.
Ivy took a deep breath, her excitement pouring out. " I want to bring my parents back to life".
Jasmine's eyes shot open, the sleep instantly dissipating from her face " Did you fall and hit your head on something? She asked, placing her hand on Ivy's forehead.
Ivy shook her head vehemently, " No Jasmine, I'm serious. I know it sounds crazy, but I am really willing to try".
Jasmine's expression turned serious " Ivy, ressurecting the dead requires powerful and ancient magic, if it's even possible. It's not something we can do".
Ivy's eyes sparkled with hope. " But there must be a way , Jas you have to help me".
Jasmine hesistates for a moment, contemplating the risks involved. "There might be someone who knows such magic. There's a tale of an old witch , rumored to live deep within the dark forest. Some say she's a myth, but if she really exists, she might have the answers you seek".
Ivy's eargerness grew as she listened intently. Jasmine told her where the old witch was rumored to have be seen last. She advised Ivy that the old witch is said to be very mischievous, and Ivy should be very careful if she ever finds the witch. Ivy asked Jasmine to promise her that she won't tell Cecilia and Ambrose about her plans, and Jasmine nodded.