Page 80 of Enchanted Kisses
“What if he does love you and all he’s said is true? And there’s a reason for all he’s done? I’m not sure we can understand the workings of his mind at present. But something in my gut tells me he’s not lost to us.”
“Always the optimist.” What did that say about me? I seemed to always think the worst of Caiden, and yet, I took Dagan’s words to heart. Maybe I was the problem.
“Regardless, I don’t want you around him tonight,” Raysa said.
“That won’t be a problem.”
“One last thing before we go.” She took an orchid from the nightstand and set it on the dresser. With a perfume bottle in hand, she sprayed the flower. Within seconds, the orchid shriveled and died.
“You killed it.”
“Come, please.” She waved for me to stand beside her.
I did.
“Touch the petal and picture the orchid coming back to life. Picture it bright and thriving.”
I opened my mouth to ask a question.
Raysa’s brows went up in a don’t-even-try-it way. She lifted my hand to the dead orchid. “Concentrate. See it healthy and alive.”
Doubtful but curious, I lifted my hand and gently pinched a brittle petal. I closed my eyes and pictured the orchid flourishing in the light of the sun. I envisioned water pulsing up its stem to the bloom, and I imagined the feel of soft petals between my fingers. My body warmed and heat strummed through my hand.
“Lily…look,” Raysa said, awe in her tone.
I opened my eyes to find a beautiful, healthy orchid. A few inches taller than before, it had two new buds stemming from the pot.
“Did you do that?”
“No, silly.” She laughed. “You did. You’re ripe.”
“Ripe?” It sounded like she was referring to that time of the month.
“You have evolved. Not fully, but it’s the start. I noticed it the moment I walked into the bathroom. You were practically glowing.”
“Uh…that might have been for other reasons.”
“No. It was you. It’s why your scent is stronger and is driving Caiden mad. I had to force him to the carriage house to get ready.”
“Really?” The thought of him having to be forced away because of my scent didn’t worry me as much as it fluttered my insides. This whole situation was getting out of hand. I focused on the orchid, unable to believe I had given it life. I had powers! I wasn’t a dud after all. I was…? “What am I now?”
“I believe more goddess than mortal, but you will always be both. As your powers enhance, you should become stronger. I can’t say what your full potential will be, but I can’t wait to find out.”
22
Alliston’s Celebration And A Broken Zipper
Raysa and I headed downstairs, arm in arm. From the second floor, cheering, singing, and the rustling of many people reached my ears. As we descended to the first floor, the scent of sweet delights warmed the air. I licked my lips.
In the grand foyer, Raysa stopped near the front doors, a cautious look narrowing her eyes. “Lily, sentry food and drink are different from mortal goodies.”
“If it tastes anything like it smells, I’m trying one of everything.” I was actually excited.
“Go easy,” she warned. “The food and drink are enchanted to encourage rejoicing in the celebration. Mortals are easily inebriated. It might not affect you as strongly, but still, it’s best to play it safe. I need you sober when we cross to see Virgil. Understand?”
“Eat light. Don’t drink too much. Got it.” I glanced at the doors. “May I?”
She smiled. “You may.”
