for aces_are_rare's birthday

[timewill_tell]

A note is discreetly left on Ace's door:

Happy Birthday, Ace. I understand a few things are supposed to happen on this particular day, and since I've never had the opportunity to do it quite right before, I only hope my attempt to make this enjoyable for you is successful. As it's your birthday, I gather you're supposed to indulge in cake, and be

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[aces_are_rare]

"Gordon Bennett!" Ace stood staring at the sound system, a stolen bit of chocolate from the cake melting in her mouth and the compass clenched in one hand. the last of the notes made her laugh a little, a relief from the stupid moisture that threatened to fall down her cheek. Never had anyone done so much for her birthday.

Determined, Ace wiped her eyes with the back of one hand and set off to find the Professor. She didn't have far to go - he was waiting just outside the room in the corridor. She stopped a foot in front of him, and smiled.

"Thank you," she said softly. It wasn't enough for all that he had done, but any other words were stuck in her throat. She simply stood, and looked at him, and held the compass like a talisman.