“I’m setting a trap. He’ll be here with my dad at eleven to mark the end of Yule.”
“Maeve, that’s tonight.”
I nodded, swallowing down the worry. “I know.”
“And Keegan went along with this?”
“I don’t think he had much of a choice. The invite already went out.”
So to speak.
“Well, the return of light is coming,” Stella said with a grin. “Very fitting to choose this moment in time, Maeve.”
“Well, I surprise myself sometimes.” I chuckled. “And I just can’t bear my dad being away any longer.”
“How did you convince Gideon to come here?”
“I offered him a trade.”
I didn’t say anything more.
I didn’t need to.
Stella’s gaze darkened, and she shook her head. “I wish it hadn’t come to that.”
“He won’t know what hit him,” I said, waving my hand in the air, wishing I felt nearly as confident as my words.
Stella grimaced. “You’re braver than I’d ever be, darling. But I’m sure we’ll pull it off. At least you’ve got a knack for protection spells now, yes? Miora and Nova both said your incantations are quite something. Miora was impressed that the cottage wasn’t in total ruins and attributed it to your handiwork.”
I laughed, shaking my head. “Yeah, I kept it just partially ruined.”
“Take all the wins you can in this world, Maeve.”
I started responding, but a faint bell sounded near the door, drawing our attention. Bella Sandro stepped in, shutting out the cold wind behind her.
She paused to scan the shop, eyes bright as she spotted us. The golden color of her hair caught the lamplight, giving her a near-ethereal glow, and she walked with her signature fox-like grace. Tucked under one arm was a slim volume bound in worn leather.
She caught my eye and grinned.
“Oh good, you’re both here.” A mischievous undertone wrapped her words. “I thought I’d try this place before the cottage.”
“Surprise, surprise.” Stella motioned for Bella to sit with us.
I smiled, realizing how nice it was to have my friend circle growing.
“Maeve’s addicted to tea, me, and this little shop. Aren’t you, Maeve?” She snapped her gaze to me, and I nodded.
“More than you know.”
Bella giggled softly and slid into the chair.
“An excellent habit to have.” She set the leather-bound book on the table with a gentle thud. “I come bearing gifts.”
I cocked my head. “Gifts?”
“Well, a book. The sprites insisted. They nearly pushed me out the door to deliver it to you.” She patted the cover. “I was rummaging in the library, and they nearly tackled me, whispered your name, and yanked me around until I agreed to bring it.”
“They spoke to you?”
