Magic Word by A.S. Fenichel

Author:A.S. Fenichel
Language: eng
Format: epub

On Wednesday, Jonah and I ride into Maidstone to check on Phillip and deliver a crate filled with dried herbs.

Despite my good sense telling me to distance my heart from Jonah, I can’t seem to obey. Goddess put us together, and the notion of a deity toying with my life would warrant extreme caution. I don’t only need to be near Jonah, I want to be with him. I long for the nights in his arms and the sweet things he whispers to me. I want to believe him.

My mother’s voice warns that men never stay. She said they are to be used for getting with child, then sent away. My heart aches at the thought that once Goddess releases us, Jonah will leave me.

Rather than sit around idle, I help Phillip dust and restock shelves.

The bell over the door tinkles, and Ruth Easton stands in the doorway with June just behind her. Ruth glowers at me. “You offered to train this witch?”

I step off the stool, swallow down my trepidation, and face the formidable witch. “If the coven is in agreement, I would offer to share my skills.”

“I told you she said I had to ask permission.” June’s voice is childish and petulant.

Ruth raises a hand palm flat. “You will not speak unless spoken to, child.”

June presses her lips together and cowers until she’s pressed against the door.

With slow deliberate steps, Ruth closes the distance between us. “I sense great power from you, Minerva Honeywell. Perhaps your offer is sincere. I’ll know if you corrupt this child.”

Meeting her fierce regard, I say, “I’m sure you would. I shall only teach her to use her Goddess given skills to their fullest, and only if you permit it. I would not presume to train a Kent witch without permission.”

Ruth lowers her head in acceptance. “That is respectful. The high priestess was sorry to have missed your visit on Monday. It was good of you to call.”

It takes a force of will to smile warmly. “I was sorry to leave the feast so abruptly. My aunt took too much wine, and I needed to care for her. I was glad to have a good restorative already prepared at Mr. Allen’s home. It blocks all ill effects.”

Her shoulders relax. “Then Mrs. Honeywell is in good health?”

“Yes. Thank you. She is well.” I sense no deception, which surprises me. It was her coven who tainted the wine, yet her concern is genuine.

“I’m pleased to hear it. A few other witches were overcome that night as well. I have disposed of that cask of wine. Perhaps the alcohol grew too potent for a coven dinner.” Ruth’s eyes drift, as if she’s puzzling something out, but then she snaps back to me. “I hope you will join us another time.”

Backed into a corner, I have no choice but to agree. “When we are honored with an invitation, we shall be delighted to come.”

For a long uncomfortable moment, Ruth’s stare bores into me. “You may train June. If she misbehaves, send her away.

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