Page 19 of Night Magic

“Not yet.” She sighed as her mind wandered to the way he’d caressed her, anticipating his response and knowing the truth would come out soon enough.

“Are you still there?” Terri raised her voice.

“Sorry, I’m here, I was thinking about something.”

“Okay, enjoy this time in your life. You sure deserve it.”

“Thanks, talk to you later. Someone just walked into the shop.”

Chapter 6

It was close to five o’clock, and Jon’s office was near closing time. He’d have to make up for lost time in the evening. In his study, alone with his thoughts, the conversation he had with his mother earlier in the day played over in his head. He realized something she said didn’t seem right. When did she speak to Krista? Who was Krista Winter? All sorts of doubts sent his mind into a frenzy. Was it the dementia? Weakened by his fears, he ran a hand across the top of his head, then pushed his chair back. Just when he thought he had it all figured out, things got complicated. As if it weren’t already complicated enough.

Reluctantly, he tried to muddle through a few contracts. He’d be behind if he ignored the stack of work in front of him. A reputation as a dedicated professional was something he was proud of. There were things that took persistence in a law practice. In the past, his private life took second place. Making slight progress, he stretched his aching neck muscles.

The phone rang and it distracted him. He reached across the desk to grab it.

“Are you ready?”

“Of course. I’m thrilled and can’t wait for my mother to finally be at peace.” His own problems seemed so trivial. A dose of reality hit him in the face like a cold wind.

“I have everything ready. The moon is in our favor too.”

“Let me know if I can do anything to help.”

“I’ve got it all under control. Thank goodness forSilk and Dreams.”

“What did you say?” he asked, gripping the receiver, the knot in his stomach as tight as a vise.

“I’m grateful to have found the pendant in a bath and body shop in town.”

“Did I hear you saySilk and Dreams?” He crumpled a stack of papers, his chest heavy. He slammed his hand on the desk, pushed his chair back, and stood.

“Did I say something to upset you?” Monique asked.

“I’m sorry to alarm you. I know the place, and it comes as quite a surprise that you found the ancient piece in my friend’s store, and it was right under my nose. However, I did see a glass case in her shop that had a few unique jeweled pieces in it.”

“Yes, I can imagine how you feel. I’ve shopped there many times. It is full of wonderful natural products. I realize how frustrating it seems with the answer within an arm’s reach, but nevertheless, we found what we needed, and I’m happy for that. You know Ms. Winter then?”

“Yes, we know one another very well.” His heart skipped a beat in anticipation of the spell being broken.

“Oh, she’s wonderful to do business with. She actually gave me a discount.”

He fought to catch his breath, wiping the perspiration from his brow. His gut told him there was more to the story, but he couldn’t fathom what it could be. Was Krista hiding something? Maybe he was merely exhausted and taking his imagination over the top.

“Life falls together, as it should. Am I right?” Monique said. “Krista is a lovely woman.”

By the tone her voice he thought she could read his mind. He smiled. She was a wise woman indeed. “Yes, she is.”

“I’m on my way over,” Monique said, then ended the call.

Chills sped through his body. The realization of finding an answer to the pain and suffering was near, and it tore him wide open. It was as if his mother had to die again, but this time with peace. He’d waited for this gift, wanted it. Suddenly, an acceptance of all things entered him like a dagger. He’d be all right. Was Krista his answer to everlasting happiness for both he and his mother? It wasn’t the time to doubt fate. He’d accept whatever Krista had to say, and welcome her into his heart, where she belonged.

****

The moon was about to make an appearance. It was time. Monique entered his foyer with the mysterious, purple pendant dangling from her neck. She wore a proud grin as she carried in a box with jasmine oils, a broomstick, a large kettle, black and white candles, and a box of matches, along with a bucket.

“Are you ready for a little night magic? I hope you have the mantel prepared.” Monique’s eyes sparkled.

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