Page 63 of Make Out With A Merman

“I’m not going anywhere.”

And somehow, I believe it.

Because right now, in this room, in her arms.

The lake can wait.

CHAPTER 21

CALLIE

It takes me three cups of coffee, half a cinnamon roll, and two full circuits around the lake before I admit it to myself.

I can’t lose him.

Not to the lake.

Not to the magic.

Not to anything.

So I do what any desperate, emotionally compromised non-magical camp counselor would do.

I track down Hazel.

Thirteen years old. Popular. Probably enchanted her lip gloss. Known throughout camp for two things: mid-level spellwork and maximum-level sass.

I find her at the arts and crafts tent, surrounded by a gaggle of wide-eyed acolytes who are watching her braid her hairwith fireflies.I swear to all that is holy, this kid has a glitter god complex.

She spots me before I even speak. “You’re looking for me.”

“I am.”

She raises one perfectly arched brow. “Obviously.”

“Hazel, I need a favor.”

“Everyone does.” She sighs dramatically and waves a hand, dismissing her audience. “Leave us, mortals. The coven requires privacy.”

I try not to laugh as a ten-year-old boy actually bows and backs away.

Hazel perches on a bench, kicks her feet up, and folds her hands like she’s royalty. “Okay, Callie. Spill.”

I lower my voice. “It’s about Ryder.”

“Ohhh.” She leans in. “Is this about the lake pulling him under?”

I blink. “Youheardabout that?”

“Please. Half the camp knows. Jason’s been reenacting it with water balloons and spooky sound effects.”

Of course he has.

“I want to keep him here,” I say. “Anchored. Protected.”

Her eyes narrow. “You want a binding charm.”

“Yes. Something strong enough to keep the lake from taking him.”

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