The night settled over Saint Michael Religious Academy, casting long shadows through the quiet corridors. Catherine felt a sense of relief after having dinner with Maryam, yet an uneasy weight still rested on her chest. Meanwhile, Kate and Emma, balancing the empty trays, made their way toward the cafeteria kitchen. The hallway was eerily silent, save for the muffled sounds of their footsteps.
Upon reaching the cafeteria, they found Sister Margaret standing by the door, arms crossed, her face calm but firm. "You're late," she said, her voice carrying the wisdom of years. "The cafeteria staff have already left. You'll have to wash these yourselves."
Kate sighed and exchanged a glance with Emma, who simply shrugged. "Guess we're on dish duty," Emma muttered with a wry smile.
Without protest, the two friends carried the trays to the washing area. The sound of running water and clinking dishes echoed through the empty kitchen. "I suppose this is our last great chore together," Kate quipped, rinsing off a stubborn stain.
Emma smirked. "At least we're leaving behind a spotless legacy."
After finishing their task, they dried their hands and made their way back to Catherine's room. The night air felt heavier than usual, as if the weight of impending goodbyes loomed over them. Outside Catherine's door, they paused, hearing the familiar voices of Catherine and Maryam inside.
"Please forgive me, Maryam," Catherine's voice was soft but filled with guilt. "I called your name at the worst moment, and now you're—"
"Catherine," Maryam interrupted, her voice calm yet full of warmth. "I forgave you long before you asked. You are my sister in heart, and nothing will change that."
A short silence followed, then a small laugh from Catherine. "I was so afraid you'd never talk to me again."
"Don't be ridiculous," Maryam teased. "Besides, if I were really mad, I wouldn't be sitting here talking to you."
Outside, Kate and Emma exchanged glances. "Sounds like things are back to normal in there," Kate whispered.
"Should we go in?" Emma asked.
Kate hesitated for a moment before shaking her head. "Nah, let them have this moment. We should head back to our rooms."
Emma nodded in agreement. "Yeah, it's their last night together. Let them cherish it."
Without making a sound, the two turned away, walking down the corridor toward their own rooms. The hallway lights flickered slightly, casting their elongated shadows against the walls. The night was quiet, save for the occasional distant murmurs of those settling in for the evening.
Inside Catherine's room, the two friends continued to talk, their laughter echoing softly against the walls, a comforting sound in the quiet night. Whatever tomorrow held, tonight, they were simply Catherine and Maryam—two friends sharing stories and laughter one last time before parting ways.