Page 45 of Wicked Witchmas: Elara & Tripp

“Don’t. There’s no point. We’ll call a town meeting, tell everyone what’s happening, and arrange for them to leave Witchmere.”

“You heard my cousin. This half of the continent could be affected. We can’t evacuate that many people in so short a time. Where would they go?” Tripp was sickened by the thought so many would lose their lives. “I read a recent article about the bodies uncovered from the archeological dig around Mount Vesuvius. The pain and terror those poor fools must’ve suffered.” He shook his head. “All due to those boots.”

A shudder wracked Elara’s body. “I’ll admit, I’m terrified of fire and burning. I assumed I’d been burned as a witch in a previous life.”

“I imagine those emotions are leftover from the London fire.” He stroked her back. “I was beside myself with worry, but deep inside, I knew you’d perished.”

“Do you think the trauma and pain caused you to hold back in our future relationships?”

Tripp paused the light caress. Had it? If so, it seemed reasonable enough. Why fully invest his heart only to have it broken again?

“You may be on to something, flitter-mouse.”

“Why don’t you speak with Harrison Cobb? He may have insight for you.”

“He’s likely to curse me than cure me after the Rowen incident.”

Elara drew back. “‘The Rowan incident?’ Were you lovers?”

“No! You witnessed the hug.”

“Oh.” She rested her cheek against his chest. “Yes, well, the entire thing was fairly innocent, according to you. I’m sure Harrison will understand.”

One look at Harrison Cobb’s red face told Tripp the man didn’t understand a damned thing. His new therapist was still enraged all these days later.

Tripp held up his hands. “She hugged me, Cobb. I’ve got a strong suspicion it was to make you jealous, seeing as it was right outside your window.”

“And you happened to be there at that moment? The first available man she stumbled across and decided to use?”

“Yes.”

“I don’t believe you.”

Tripp sighed. “It’s true. I was stalking Elara.”

Harrison’s blond brows clashed.

“Not like that!” Tripp added hastily. “She knows.”

Those expressive brows shot up.

“This, right here, is why I keep my own blasted counsel,” he snapped.

“Then why are you here today?”

“It was Elara’s idea. She seemed to think you could offer insight into my lack of commitment.”

Harrison frowned. “Lack of commitment to her?”

“Yes.”

“I’m afraid I’m confused. When she was here last week, she made it clear she avoided you at all costs. Not the other way around.”

Tripp grinned. “Yes. She’s a master at avoidance.”

“I need context.”

“Within thirty minutes of her departure, an earthquake shook Witchmere. Our kiss caused it.”

---