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She exhaled, relieved that Leora had slept through her misery. “Washroom is all yours.”
“Are you feeling alright?”
Thessa opened the doors of her wardrobe, trying to focus on anything but her feelings—but it was useless.
“Tess?”
Thessa groaned, turning to face her. “I’m not sure, honestly. I didn’t sleep well thinking about all this.”
“I’m sorry, I’m nervous too, but I’m especially excited to share this day with you.”
“I know, me too.”
Leora held her chin high and said, “After I clean up, we’re going out for some tea, so get dressed.”
“Oh?” And before she could counter, Leora shut the washroom door.
Leora tapped Thessa’s teacup.“May the beams of our sun light our path for years to come.”
“Happy Summoning Day to us,” Thessa added, as light yellow liquid splashed over the side of her rim.
The two witches enjoyed their tea while cackling over the mess they were making. Thessa knew what was coming, Leora too, so they bided their time.
Witches had been taught about their eighteenth birthday since primary school. It was considered one of the most important days of their life. In order to find their goddess-given gift, they must first be called to it.
The gift pulses with anticipation for one witch only. Theinvisible presence is similar to a guide in the right direction. Once found, the transfer of energy is instantaneous, unlocking a witch’s magic.
“You were right by the way; this place is adorable. I love these.” Leora stroked the velour wingback loveseat they shared. “I want one just like it.”
“We should save up for one.”
The witches smiled, trying to let small talk color over what’s to come. They were both excited for their magic, but it’d been unnerving. A tea break was just what Thessa needed, and Leora too, it seemed.
Thessa rolled her eyes. “What if our gifts are back in Gravenport?”
“Not even a curse a witch could cast, Thessa. Of course they won’t be, the goddess is with us everywhere we go. You know that.”
“Let’s hope you’re right. Not even magic could drag me back there.”
Leora laughed. “You should really come to the House of Hekate sometime. A little faith would do you some good.”
Thessa sipped her tea, unsure of how she even felt about the goddess. Which reminded her of something very important. “Leora, I’m so sorry I’ve not asked. How are you feeling with everything? Everything else, I mean.”
“Thank you.” Leora took a breath before continuing, “It’s difficult, yes, I always expected to spend this day with my parents. But they’re at peace, so I’m allowing myself to be too. The routine at the townhouse, going to prayer sessions, having you, Vy, and Bea, has all been so helpful. I feel blessed.” Leora paused. “But it’s you I worry about, Tess.”
Thessa’s smile faded. “Please don’t, you’ve got enough to worry about. I’m fine, promise.”
Leora raised her eyebrow.
The lie had slipped off Thessa’s tongue. She tried to remedy it. “Well, I wish I didn’t battle with my own thoughts, but I think everyone does that.”
“To an extent, yes, but staying up all night in the washroom is no easy battle to fight alone.”
Leora had known then … the whole time. Thessa dipped her chin in embarrassment.
“I don’t want you to hide how you feel from me.Not me. I’m not sure if you’ve realized it, but you’re about all I have in Andera, and I care about you.A lot.Promise me, you’ll come to me next time?”
When Thessa looked up, silver lined her eyes.