Page 73 of Moonlit Thorns

Then I walk over to the bush to water the plant using what I hope will act like a magic potion. While I do, I talk to the plant because that’s another thing that was written in the book.

The first time I talked to it, I felt silly. But I swear the rose bush has new buds forming, and the existing roses aren’t as weary as they were.

“I’m worried I’m setting myself up for heartbreak. Not because Asher’s done anything wrong, but because he does everything right. To everyone else, he’s an enigma, but the more I learn about him, the more I know what he’s been through and how strong he is because he survived it, the more I want to wrap him in my arms and try to convince him to just let me love him.”

I sigh. The bush doesn’t answer of course, but I’d be lying if I said that, in some weird way, it doesn’t feel good to say the words out loud.

“I’ve decided I’m going to go see my family tomorrow night rather than stay here and wait for him to return. It’s not healthy to base my entire life around him when a year from now, I won’t even be here anymore.”

That thought gives me a sick feeling in the pit of my stomach.

“Anyway, hopefully this little concoction will help you grow strong again. I think it would make him really happy.”

The last drips come out of the watering can, and I take a step back from the plant, studying it. Usually, I would’ve brought my book so that I can read on one of the benches, but I didn’t bother tonight, knowing I wasn’t in the mood.

While I find my way out of the maze, I think of all the things Asher confessed to me about his father. What a horrible man he was. My father had his faults, but I cannot imagine him ever doing anything like what Asher’s father did to his family. Good riddance.

I feel guilty for thinking it, but not that guilty.

I’m so wrapped up in my thoughts that when I pop out of the maze, I don’t see Jack Potter until he calls my name.

I turn and face him. “Hi, Jack. Headed back to the staff quarters?”

“Yep, just finished up for the day. What are you up to?” He nods at the empty watering can in my hand.

“Oh.” My cheeks heat in embarrassment though I don’t know why. Mrs. Potter already knows what I’m up to, and she’s probably told her husband. “I’m trying to bring that rose bush in the maze back to life.”

He nods knowingly. “How’s it going?”

I frown. “Not bad. Not great.”

Jack chuckles. “Well, stick with it. It would mean a lot to Mr. Voss.” There’s a twinkle in his eye that makes me think he may believe there’s more between Asher and me than there is.

“Thanks, I will.” The caw of some kind of bird sounds from overhead. “Jack, can I ask you something?”

He shoves his hands in his pockets. “Sure, what’s up?”

“You’ve worked here for a long time, right?”

His eyebrows creep up, and he nods.

“How did Asher’s parents die?”

It’s a chicken-shit question to ask Jack. I could just as easily ask Asher the same thing, but I can’t be sure he’d tell me. Lots of rumors claim that they were killed but offer little to no concrete details. I’ve heard everything from witchcraft gone wrong to suicide.

Jack gives me a sympathetic look. I get the feeling he’s trying to soften the blow. “You’re gonna need to ask Mr. Voss about that, Anabelle.”

I nod. “I figured as much.”

“It’s not that I don’t want to tell you. It’s just Mr. Voss’s story to tell, not mine.”

“I respect that. Sorry to put you in an uncomfortable spot by asking.” I move past him.

“Want me to return that watering can for you? I’m going right by there,” he says.

“That would be great, thanks.” I hold out the can.

He takes it but settles his hand on my shoulder. “Just ask him.”

---