“They do that when they connect with a soul they like. And they do like yours,lass.”
“May I keepthem?”
“No, I will take them back, but you will always be able to feel their power. Spirits may wish to visit you from time to time. Do you mind if theydo?”
“What would theywant?”
“Some may just want to talk to a real person as they sometimes miss being in a body. Others may have a message they wish you to give to someone. Do you think you can dothis?”
“I would be able to talk tospirits?”
“Aye. That is your gift if you wishit.”
“I do wish it. Mayhap I can speak with my mama. She died a long time ago and I missher.”
“If your mama wishes to speak with you, she can. You will know when they are coming. You will hear someone talking to you, but you will not always seethem.”
“Thank you,Ava.”
“You are welcome, child. Now run along to your castle,” Ava said and pointed over Sheona’s shoulder. “These woods are not safe for one so pure asyou.”
Sheona looked in the direction the enchantress pointed and when she looked back, the woman was gone. She turned around in a circle, but no trace remained. Had she imagined itall?
“Sheona! What are you doing outhere?”
Alasdair’s stern voice made her jump. “I wanted to watch youhunt.”
“If Father finds out you followed me, you’ll get no desserts for aweek.”
Sheona smiled. Father always threatened that, but he never followed through. “Then you must be sure he does not findout.”
Alasdair ruffled her hair and led Sheona out of the wood and toward the castle. At that moment, she didn’t care about getting caught for disobeying her father. All she could think about was if her mama would come to her. That would make it a wonderful giftindeed.
