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I swallowed hard, the weight of their words sinking in. “How do you know I’m descended from witches? I’m an orphan. I don’t know who my parents are.”
“I communed with the spirits,” Aunt Thea replied as if it were an everyday occurrence, like grocery shopping. “I don’t know who your parents are, either. My sight doesn't work like that, but it’s likely your mother had magical abilities.”
“Of course she did. And I’m a witch. But I've never... I mean, I don't know the first thing about magic.” A hysterical laugh bubbled in my throat.
Maggie reached out and squeezed my hand reassuringly. “You'll learn, love. We'll help you every step of the way.”
Aunt Thea nodded in agreement. “Indeed. You have a natural affinity for magic, and with my guidance, you'll harness it to protect yourself and those you love. It won’t be a quick process. Learning to use magic responsibly is a lengthy process.”
I took a deep breath, stunned. But I couldn’t deny the excitement and apprehension coursing through me. The idea of tapping into something ancient and powerful was both exhilarating and daunting.
“But what about the dangers?” I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.
Maggie's expression softened with understanding. “Magic can be both wondrous and perilous, but you won't be alone on this journey. The Furbanes look after their own, and we'll face whatever challenges arise.”
Aunt Thea's eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief. “Besides, with a protective bear shifter by your side, I doubt anyone or anything would dare to threaten you.”
I hoped she was right.
“I-I don’t know what to say. It’s a lot to absorb.” I thought I’d dealt with all the surprises and secrets, but they just kept coming.
I couldn’t deny the evidence. The energy that had surged through me felt familiar as if something in my DNA had recognized it. You didn’t toss burning branches aside without touching them unless you had some kind of otherworldly ability.
This would also explain why I’d been so exhausted afterward and had lost consciousness.
Maggie and Aunt Thea exchanged a knowing glance before Maggie spoke, her voice gentle yet firm. “Yes, it is a lot to absorb. But you have us to lean on. We’re family now, and family looks out for each other.”
The next evening, I stood nervously on the Furbanes’ front porch, clutching a bottle of wine. Before I could knock, the door flew open.
“Hey, Wildflower,” Emmett exclaimed, opening the door and sweeping me up in a tight hug. His woodsy scent and muscular frame enveloped me, making my knees weak.
Emmett had messaged me earlier to say he’d meet me here as he was running late after work. When I told him about Maggie and his aunt's visit and their revelation, he wasn’t surprised, as if he’d also sensed my unexpected heritage.
Me? I was still processing.
“Oof, easy there, bear man.” I laughed breathlessly.
He nuzzled into my neck, sending a delicious shiver down my spine as he nipped at my skin. “Missed you today.”
“Missed you too,” I whispered, my heart melting.
He set me down but kept an arm wrapped firmly around my waist, guiding me inside. My skin tingled everywhere we touched.
“Something smells amazing,” I said, sniffing the air.
“That’s my Leif’s cooking. He’s a wizard in the kitchen,” Emmett replied.
We entered the cozy kitchen where Leif was stirring a pot on the stove while Axel sat at the counter nursing a beer.
“Welcome, Amber,” Leif said with a smile. “Dinner’s about ready.”
I handed him the wine. “Thanks for having me. It smells incredible.”
“It’s my pleasure. Here, have a seat.”
Emmett pulled out a chair for me, then sat close beside me, his thigh pressed against mine. My pulse quickened at his nearness. I wanted to devour this man every time I saw him.
Maggie breezed in, carrying a salad bowl. “Perfect timing, love. Leif’s seafood gumbo is ready.”
