Page 93 of A Bolt of Magic

“Sex…okay? They start to have sex, and it’s out in the open for everyone to see. Not everyone partakes, but…many do.” It feels like my whole body is on fire.

“How interesting. Have you ever stayed up late at one of these celebrations?”

“No…never!”

“Why not?”

“It’s…I…um… Not for me. We need to go! We’re late.” I turn and walk out, not waiting to hear if he is following or not. I’m sure I hear him chuckle, but I can’t be certain.

Outside, a horse-drawn carriage waits for us, the driver dressed in formal livery. He greets us with a nod.

The ride through the village is brief. I look out of the window the whole way, sitting as far away from Kian as I can get. My face continues to burn.

It seems as if the village has put in a lot of effort toward this celebration. Magical globe lights seem to dance between the trees, and I can hear the distant sound of music and laughter.

We pull up and Kian gives me his hand, helping me from the carriage. Then we walk to the outdoor area, which takes my breath away.

“She’s gone to a lot of trouble,” he says with a low whistle.

“It’s a little over the top.”

Large, elegant tents provide areas for relaxation and conversation, while long tables groan under the weight of every delicacy imaginable. Different-sized balls of light hover everywhere. They’re in the trees, floating freely through the air, casting everything in a warm glow. Above us is a blanket of stars on a moonless night. Bonfires crackle merrily, and the scent of food, mulled wine, and mead fills the air.

It’s beautiful, festive, and exactly the kind of grand gesture my mother excels at.

The crowd parts as we arrive, and I can feel eyes on us from every direction. Whispers follow in our wake – the returned daughter and her mysterious fae companion.

“You weren’t wrong about the attire.” Kian laughs. “I feel overdressed by a mile.” He takes off his coat, slinging it over his arm. “Can I take your jacket?”

“I’m fine…thanks.”

“Would you like something to drink?”

“Not just yet.” My stomach is in knots. I hate this. “We’re staying only long enough to be polite,” I whisper, leaning in so he will hear me.

“Of course.”

“And we can’t afford to let our guard down completely, Kian. I don’t trust her.”

“Neither do I.” He leans in, and I catch a whiff of him. Of his masculine scent mixed with mint and sandalwood.

I want to lean in some more, maybe even bury my head in his chest. What’s wrong with me? I straighten up instead, smiling at a nearby couple who smile back.

“Do you want to mingle or…?” Kian starts to ask, but he stops mid-sentence, his eyes tracking someone or something.

I follow his gaze. It’s my mother. She’s beautiful in a gown that seems to be made from spun silk and fine lace. It fits her form perfectly and is embroidered with intricate gold edging. She climbs onto a small platform, raises her hands for attention, and gets it immediately.

“My friends, my family, members of The Circle, Children of the Veil, and fellow witches,” her voice carries clearly across the gathering. “Tonight, we celebrate not just the return of my beloved daughter but the dawn of a new era for our coven. We stand at the threshold of wonderful things to come. We are moving into a new time, a better time for all.”

Murmurs of approval ripple through the crowd.

“The time of the witches is almost upon us. So, eat, drink, and be merry!” she continues. “Let us celebrate hope, new alliances, and the bright future that awaits us all!”

The crowd cheers, and my mother steps down and makes her way over to us. She is smiling broadly.

“Good evening. Have you settled into your accommodation? I trust that you are comfortable.”

“We have, indeed. Thank you. It’s excellent,” Kian says.

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