Page 94 of A Bolt of Magic

“Wonderful.” She turns to me. “You look lovely, McColl. I knew that dress would be just right for you.”

“Thank you, Mother. It fits perfectly.”

Lilith turns to Kian. “You’re looking dashing.” She pulls in a measured breath. “I thought you should know the meeting with The Circle has been set for late tomorrow afternoon.” Her eyes are bright with satisfaction. “Everything is falling into place beautifully. I hope the two of you enjoy your evening. I need tomingle and then take my leave to prepare for the meeting. There is much to do.”

“Wait, Mother. Something I meant to ask you earlier, but after the news about Grandmother, it slipped my mind.”

“Yes, dear.”

“Where are my brothers? Are they here tonight?” I look into the crowds.

Her expression shifts to annoyance, which she quickly schools. “Conner and Oliver would be too young to be at such a celebration, but since they are not here, it isn’t applicable. I sent them to the Blackthorn Coven.”

I frown. “Why would you do that?” My youngest brother is only fourteen.

“We swapped students. We took some Blackthorn youngsters, and they took a few of ours. We need to learn from one another. We also need to introduce new blood. This is the perfect way to do that, as well as to keep ourselves aligned with our neighboring covens. Relationships with one’s peers during troubled times are essential. That is why you are here, is it not, Kian?”

“Indeed,” Kian says.

“But all three of them?”

“It sent a good message, McColl. Leaders need to make sacrifices, just like the children of leaders need to sacrifice, as well. We do it for the greater good. I’m sure you will have an understanding of that, Kian?” She lifts her brows.

“Only too well.”

“They’re doing well, though? Have you had word?”

“I sent them five mooncycles ago. I get regular feedback and am happy to report that they are doing just fine and have settled in nicely. They’re not the boys you remember them to be. Elijah is very nearly a man. Now I must go and talk with that couple.” She points to a pair of well-dressed older people. I don’trecognize them. “I will see you later, or tomorrow at the meeting. Be ready to plead your case as well as to answer questions.”

“Of course,” Kian tells her.

“Okay then, enjoy yourselves and, for heaven’s sake, mingle,” she tells me.

Something about her tone makes me uneasy, but before I can analyze it further, she’s already walking away.

“I can’t believe she did that. Conner is only fourteen and living with strangers. Oliver is only fifteen. Maybe they were placed together. I don’t like it. Those boys should be in a loving home. Then again, they might get more care from a bunch of strangers than from her.” I look over at my mother, who is laughing at something the husband is saying. She’s cool and controlled. A glass of wine is in her hand, but I know she won’t drink more than half of it. Everything is about discipline and control.

“I’m sure they’ll be okay,” Kian tries to reassure me.

“I’m sure she did it for selfish reasons. How can she turn her back on her children without a care in the world?”

“I’m sorry, McColl.”

“It’s fine. I know the Blackthorn Coven. They have a leader who is known to be fair. I’m sure they will be treated well. They’re also together, which is something. It’s just…” I sigh. “I wish I could see them. I miss them. That’s all. But since there’s nothing I can do about it, let’s go and, at least, try to enjoy ourselves since we have to be here.”

“That’s a good idea,” Kian says, offering me his arm. “We may as well. I have to say that the food smells incredible. I don’t know about you, but I could eat.” He looks over at my mother, who is talking with some of the elders.

I let my gaze drift over the crowd. “Just so you know, my mother will be watching us. She’ll have spies, too.” I slip my hand through his arm. “Lead the way. I’m starving.”

Neither of us touched the food that was delivered. It was probably the shock of seeing my grandmother in such a bad way. My heart is heavy. I’m grateful I got to talk with her. Grateful that she is still here. But sad at the change in her.

We arrive at the food tent and Kian pours two glasses of wine from a nearby table, handing me one.

“Thanks. Be careful. It’s stronger than it looks,” I warn him.

Kian smiles. “I can well imagine. Fae mulled wine is also potent stuff. Again, we have more in common than you thought.”

I shake my head, taking a sip. “I think this will be my first and my last glass.” We have to keep our wits about us. Although we have dropped our guard just a little, I’m not foolish enough to trust blindly.

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