Page 10 of Wicked William

Chapter Five

Maisy

In addition to seeingWilliam’s very naughty thoughts about me and that counter at the shop today, I saw something else that has me flustered in a way I hadn’t expected.

It’s hard to surprise a psychic, after all.

The shop I saw for a brief moment in my vision was an amazing tea and herb store. The scent of it was so clear. I’ve never had scent accompany a vision before. There were herbs hanging from a rafter, and the shelves were lined with glass jars of teas and dried herbs.

And it wasmine.

I’ve never thought I would settle in one place long enough to have a shop. I’ve been a nomad since I ditched the foster system after my mom died. But the feeling of ownership was very clear. And it felt really good. Right.

Destined.

I like Tempest and I like William, but I’m not sure I’m sold on anything permanent with either. It makes me itchy. I like my freedom.

But that herbal shop? Such peace in that vision.

I’m pulling the loaves of bread out of the oven when William comes home.

“What smells so good?” he yells from the doorway. He pops into the kitchen and does a double take. “You make bread?”

“I do.”

“You’re wearing an apron?”

I look down at my front. “I am. Clearly, yes.”

He shrugs. “You almost look respectable.”

I laugh. “You sound disappointed.”

He leans against the counter. “No. I’m just surprised.”

“Will it help if I tell you that I’m not wearing any panties?”

He barks out something close to a laugh but a little more tortured. “No, not really.”

I smile sweetly. I really like keeping this man unbalanced. “The bread is done, but it needs a few minutes. I’ve got a nice soup in my cauldron to go with it.”

William looks askance at the very normal soup pot. “You think you’re funnier than you are.”

I just wink at him. “I met Cherry and Cressida today at the bookstore.”

William winces a little. “They were both there, huh?” He pulls out a couple of bowls and small plates for the bread. “How did that go?”

I untie my apron and watch him noticing my breasts. “They were both very nice. Max had already texted Cherry about me before I got there, so they were trying to pry secrets out of me.”

“What did you say?”

I give him an innocent smile. “I was as mysterious as possible. They asked me to come to Max and Cherry’s wedding, though. I’m not sure I want to go.”

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