“Do you have any objections to Miss Merriweather’s proposal?” the magistrate asks the society’s director.
“I find the proposal satisfactory—but Miss Merriweather will have to agree to frequent inspections to ensure the gnomes’ safety.”
“Do you agree to that, Miss Merriweather?”
I glance at Ash, and he gives me a subtle nod.
Though I don’t love the idea of society inspectors showing up at the cottage randomly, it’s far better than going to a fae prison. “I do.”
“Very well. I rule that you will work with the society to create a small gnome haven on your personal property. We will meet again in three months, where you and the society will update me on the relocation process.”
“And the tea shop, Your Honor?” Ash asks.
I swear I feel my loved ones hold their breath right along with me.
“It may remain open.” The magistrate stands, smiles, and walks out the side door.
It’s over.
I slouch in my seat, feeling like every bone in my body just turned to jelly.
“Congratulations, Kit,” Ash says. “You secured an exemplary lawyer.”
I laugh, feeling giddy. “Thank you for everything. I’d be in jail if it weren’t for you.”
He lifts a blond brow. “Are you having second thoughts? Decided you might fancy a lawyer?”
“Sorry, no.”
That ship has sailed, and it didn’t return to the harbor after we dissolved the bond. My heart belongs to Rowan.
Ash chuckles, in a good mood thanks to the successful hearing. “Your loss.”
Rowan rushes from the gallery, pulling me into a tight hug. “You did it.”
“Idid it,” Ash says blandly.
“Mr. Eastwilden really did try to sabotage me.” I shudder. “What an awful man.”
“You won’t have to deal with him for some time—if ever,” Ash says ominously. “Not only did he use an illegal lure, but he also lied to the king’s magistrate. I imagine he will be away from town for a long while.”
“Your mother will be overjoyed,” Rowan deadpans.
Ash studies his cousin. “Have you two talked yet?”
“Some,” Rowan says heavily. “She swears she believed hiding my heritage would give me more opportunities later in life and refuses to believe she did anything wrong.”
The whole situation is uncomfortable and sad, and I honestly don’t know how Rowan is going to get past it. But no matter what, he has me. If he decides to rebuild a relationship with his aunt, I’ll be here. And if he doesn’t, I’ll still be here. He won’t journey the path alone.
Elias walks over, greeting us with a solemn nod. “We’ll be in touch to discuss your new gnome sanctuary, Miss Merriweather. Until we’ve successfully relocated all the gnomes, please keep humans from entering the tea garden.”
“Of course,” I tell him, happy to be accommodating now.
The society members leave, and Rowan turns to me. “Well, that is that. How do you feel?”
“Like I barely dodged a gnome-shaped bullet.” I laugh, so relieved. “Let’s go home.”
Chapter 27
