Page 28 of Magic Touch
He reads, "Fire in darkness be not in mind. Light will show the way. If in these two a curse has been laid, show it now and let them be free. As I say, so mote it be."
I hold my breath as the room sizzles with magic, prickling my skin.
William’s eyes are wide. "I feel something rushing along my spine."
"That's the magic." I study him for signs of a dark curse.
When the spark fades and nothing is revealed, I let out my breath.
"What happened?" He's still clutching the crystal and vial.
Easing his hands open, I take both. It takes a lot of energy not to show my relief. I go to the window, open it and pour out the vial before putting both back into my trunk. "There is no curse. One or both of us would have felt pain from the exposure."
I close the chest and latch it.
When I stand, William pulls me into his arms. "I'm sorry. I know you're angry, and you have every right to be. Forgive me. Please, Esme, forgive me." His voice is full of desperation.
The scent of all he is fills me to overflowing. Spices, magic, and William. I could get drunk on him. "There is nothing to forgive. Truth be told, I'm glad we worked the spell and know whatever this is between us is natural."
He releases me and puts distance between us. "I want to show you something. Meet me in the parlor?"
I have never wanted to kiss or be kissed by anyone more. Why must I be a sensible woman? Many witches take a man into their bed just because they want him. I am not one of them. I need more than a quick tumble that leaves me feeling sullied by the act and sorry for the bother.
If it had been a curse, it would have been disappointing, but at least it might have been broken. Then it would be easier to teach him and not yearn for his affection.
My other trunk is in the corner, open and empty. All my clothes have been put away for me. That is a treat. Anne must believe she needs to play maid to me. I will set that straight when I see her.
Clouds roll in from the west, covering the sun and graying the lovely day. With a sigh that sounds hopeless to my ear, I go to the parlor near the front door.
Alone in the parlor, I scan the bookshelves and find many magical tomes that I might like to make use of while we reside in the country. Perhaps I'll grow some herbs to take back to Windsor. The summer won't be a complete loss if I can save myself buying such things from farmers. Perhaps there are some mushrooms to be hunted up in the small woods.
The furniture is old, but of fine polished wood and sturdy fabric. Dark green and gold with touches of red give the parlor elegance. It's clean, as Brianna did a fine job readying the place for her many-times great grandmother. The windows face front, and the first drops of rain dampen the yard.
Simon scurries toward the house, sees the open window, and leaps through. He gives a meow before purring and rubbing his body on my skirt.
I pick him up and give him a cuddle. His fur is damp, but he comforts me with his little head rubbing my chin. "You're a fine fellow, Simon. I'm quite glad we found each other. I feel certain your company will be critical once all this nonsense is over and we're back in the shop."
Alone.
A cool breeze drives the rain to the windowsill. After putting Simon on the floor, I close out the wet, then rub the chill from my arms.
"Are you cold?" William asks from the threshold.
"It has gotten a bit damp out." I point to the growing storm.
He places three books on the low table in front of the loveseat. "Shall I make a fire?"
Tossing a thought to the hearth, I use magic to light the neatly stacked logs.
William laughs. "That’s handy."
I want to run into his arms and never leave. The urge is so strong I have to fight it with considerable will. "I will teach you when you learn some control. Water outside is less dangerous, yet you nearly drowned us. Fire inside could lead to disaster."
Wide-eyed, he nods. "Control would be helpful. It's strange to think of my magic as wild and ill-mannered. I've prided myself on a strict lifestyle since before the army. I never imagined any part of me might be out of control. It’s hard to imagine me having magic at all."
I want to comfort him, but all I can do is apologize. "I'm sorry, William. If you hadn't met me, you would still have a life where you were comfortable. Seeking me out has altered the course of your well-planned life."
He rounds the furniture and holds my arms at the elbows. His touch is gentle yet firm. "I have no regrets, Esme."
