Page 24 of Wicked Witch

Shuffling over to him, I run my nails along the boards, imagining them disappearing. Spells only go so far. I may need to brew a potion.

Thankfully with some creaks they open and we get a burst of fresh air. The light from outside shines in, showing all the many dust particles.

Closing my eyes, I wait. I don’t know what for, but a premonition would be nice.

“Let’s give her some privacy,” Cirrus whispers and I have to laugh as Arnie argues with him.

He wants to protect me. It’s sweet. I know I promised him I would find out how he died and help him cross over, but I kinda like him and wouldn’t mind keeping my new ghost friend.

It doesn’t take long for the spirit to reach me. Her presence is strong and I feel nauseous. Sitting down in the middle of what I am assuming is the living room, I get comfortable and begin to chant.

“You shouldn’t be here, witch. They will come for you and no one will protect you or your scum fae.”

Opening my eyes, I see her clearly for the first time. She’s burned badly, and she’s young.

“What is your name?”

“I… I don’t remember. He came in the night. Melisande warned us to leave, but my husband was stubborn. He thought he was more powerful than the sorcerer. Damn fool.”

“I’d like to help you… Do you know why I was summoned here?”

“I’m assuming you want to break the curse but I don’t know anything about that… Maybe I could show you?”

Nodding, I offer her my hand.

It’s hard to connect with spirits. There is always a worry they may try to possess you, but I think I am safe for the moment. I concentrate and chant. Her hand is cold and I’m startled that I can feel her at all.

The vision starts slow, but soon overcomes me and all my previous questions are finally answered. Only thing is it leads to more questions.

Marcus bringsme to the tree in the middle of the yard. There are beautiful flowers all around and he’s laid a small blanket onto the grass.

“Corrine, I love you,” he begins before pressing a kiss to the back of my hand. I gasp at the touch of his lips against my skin.

“Marcus?” Moving his fingers to my lips, he shushes me with a smile.

“Corrine, I love you. You have been my confidant for a few years now. The one I wish to talk to the moment I open my eyes in the morning. The one that I wish to see before I go to sleep. You are my flower. My everything and I hope that with this token of love, you will do me the honor of being mine until death takes our last breath.”

Tears fill my eyes and I can hardly contain my excitement, but mother would faint if I didn’t act like the proper woman she raised.

“It would be my honor to be yours, Marcus.”

Giving me a big smile he scoops me up into his arms and spins me beneath the willow tree. Flowers swirl around us and I laugh at his show of magic. He has always been a sweetheart and I love him with my whole being.

It’sa warm summer day and our family is gathered beneath the willow tree awaiting our ceremony. Marcus gives me a big grin. His father and brother are beside him as I walk along the grass barefoot, letting Mother Nature into my body during my momentous day.

The breeze blows the scent of lavender and lilac throughout the air. My heart is racing, but it's also full.

Marcus is my soulmate.

I was always meant to be his wife. Melisande stands at the altar made of twigs and flowers. Her lovers surround her. Keeping her protected.

She gives me a smile and takes my hand. “May the Earth guide your feet. May the air keep you calm. May the fire roar between you both. Encompassing you in everlastinglove. And may the water flow between you, nourishing your love.”

Marcus takes my hand and we make our everlasting vow.

“Corrine, dear, you must push.”

“It hurts so much,” I cry, but still try. I’m exhausted, but it doesn’t matter. In a few short moments my baby will be here.

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