Ioan understood her hesitance. It was why he was keeping his distance, when all he wanted was to close the gap between them and wrap her in his arms. The vulnerability and hurt echoing from her was partly his fault, he knew, and he would've kicked himself for ever leaving in the first place.
"Positive," he said. "I did some soul-searching this past week, and...it's the right thing. Professor Sprout sent a letter, and she's right. I should finish my education. Besides, all my friends are here."
He wouldn't say it, but he hoped she heard in his voice that he'd missed her, as well.
Unable to stop himself, he reached out a hand and held it against her cheek gently, his head tilting a little as he stroked a thumb over the soft skin. He didn't allow it to linger, though, pulling back after a moment.