Page 26 of Bewitched & Bewildered
“Fine,” Laurel says. “But if I’m doing something for you, I want to do something for me, too.”
“Like what?” I ask.
Laurel lifts her head higher. “I’m the new tarot reader. If someone wants a reading, they’re coming tome.”
My eyes widen. “Really? That’s a massive responsibility. You know how many people come in for readings.”
“I know,” Laurel says. “I’ll take it super seriously, I promise.”
I hesitate. “Okay…”
“I still don’t know my specialty. I’m good at tarot readings, but… I need more practice. For now, I can offer discounted readings.”
“And I can help with the herbs!” Maple says. “I know plenty of suppliers, and I may be able to get us a deal.”
“I can make cosmic charms.” Rowan sighs. “On the weekends. When I have time.”
“You’re already doing a lot.” Laurel’s brows furrow.
“I want to help.” Rowan shrugs. “My day job comes first, but I can make time.”
“You’re all helping. More than you know.” I look away from them and stare at the vase.
My heart pounds.
“Who are those from?” Laurel asks.
“Juni has a secret admirer.” Rowan snickers.
“Oh! Who is it?” Maple gasps.
“No one!” I turn away, crossing my arms. “They’re flowers for mourning. Someone just found out about Mom.”
The room goes silent.
“Well,” Laurel says, “Mom would want us to revive her passion project. Where do we start?”
“Market research.” Rowan smirks. “Juniper is going to go check the prices at the new apothecary. Why don’t you join her?”
Ugh. Right. I still have to visit my so-called secret admirer.
Chapter 7
Ozan
“You’re back?”I can’t hide my surprise.
Juniper returns an hour before closing, with someone following closely behind. It’s one of her sisters. The inch of ginger roots sprouting from her green hair makes it apparent. I still remember Juniper for her red hair, but her dark hair is as striking. She fixes me with a death glare, and I melt into a puddle.
I don’t know which sister this is. It’s definitely not Maple, the only other sister I’m familiar with, and…I don’t carewhoit is.
My eyes are stuck on Juniper. She was already here a few hours ago. Why the hell is she back? It seems like she’s making a pastime of tormenting me.
“Yes,” Juniper says in a tight voice. She exchanges a look with her sister. “I’m back.”
“You were here earlier?” the younger woman asks. She’s trying to whisper, but she’s loud enough for me to hear.
“Just for a moment,” Juniper says.
