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Sharon floated in the air off to Mary’s left as though reclining on her side. Her elbow appeared to be resting on something solid as she supported her head in her palm. It was all posturing of course. A ghost didn’t exactly have a head to put anywhere.
But Mary gave her credit for attitude.
She rose from her chair and moved to stand beside Sharon. So, you’re back. Are you here to celebrate Fergus’s reinstatement?
When Sharon didn’t answer her, Mary turned to look at her, but Sharon didn’t seem happy. What’s wrong? Mary asked. I thought you’d be pleased.
Sharon shifted to look at her, then moved to a sitting position. She now appeared as though perched on top of a wall, her legs dangling over. How did you know about the spell, Mary?
Of all the things Sharon could have addressed, Mary was surprised she would want to talk about the spell. For whatever reason, my fae senses were on high alert. The moment we left the tunnel, I knew something was wrong.
Well, what you did was brilliant. I followed you in the dreamglide and saw what you saw. Sydon is a real piece of work, isn’t he?
Undoubtedly a psychopath.
Sharon grew quiet. Mary turned to watch her, wondering why she was back this time. Sharon’s gaze followed Fergus almost exclusively.
What you are thinking about? Mary asked.
Sharon released a ghostly sigh. I never knew how to love this man. He was always a mystery to me even when we were human. But it seems so easy for you, and that makes me a little sad, even pissed off.
How can you possibly be mad about something like that? Mary asked. I always had the impression, especially by way of a few dead-talkers I know, that the afterlife is meant for letting go, for different kinds of atonement, but mostly for moving on. So, what are you here for, Sharon?
She huffed another ghostly sigh. To help you and Fergus make this transition.
Mary’s faeness fired up once more. Wait a minute, she said. This is about Sydon, isn’t it? He’s why you’re here.
To some degree, yes, Sharon responded. And also about the witch who gave him the spell. You’re on the right track there, which is what I came to tell you. But Mary, things are going to get rough. You’ll need to be brave, I mean really brave. And now, I have to go.
As quickly as she’d come, Sharon was gone.
Mary felt deeply unsettled by what Sharon had just told her. She’d confirmed her suspicions that a witch was involved more extensively than just selling a dark spell to Sydon. But she had no idea what to do about it.
She needed more information and though she tried to call Sharon back, the ghost remained stubbornly unreachable.
Fergus greeted the last of his pack members and finally headed in her direction. His leathers and snug black t-shirt were a great look for him. The fabric showed off his thick pecs and trim waist. His hair hung in a mass as it always did, and as was his habit, he’d created Sharon’s intricate braid after he’d showered.
CHAPTER NINE
MARY PUT HER hand over her mouth and giggled just as Lydia had. The room was full of flowers and lit candles, at least a dozen. The fragrances had her wolf-nose wrinkling and she loved it. The bed had been turned down with pink rose petals scattered over white sheets. Champagne sat chilling in an ice bucket beside a pair of flutes.
“They did this for us?” she asked, moving into the room and turning in a full circle to take it all in.
“The women wanted to show their appreciation for all that you’ve done. This is for you, Mary, which is the least you deserve.”
She shook her head and couldn’t quite blink. “There have to be a hundred pink and yellow roses in here.” There were four large bouquets and several smaller ones. She glanced toward the other side of the room. “And lavender ones as well.”
Her nostrils flared and once again she embraced the rich scent. As had happened before, she could detect layers of fragrance and took her time exploring each one. It was like having a feast for her senses.
Fergus headed in the direction of the bathroom. Once by the doorway, he turned back to her, smiling. “There’s more in here.”
She followed after him, then stepped inside. She gasped faintly at the sight of three full-length negligees hanging from one of the above-the-sink light fixtures. The gowns were made of beautiful lace, one each in black, cream and purple. “I wouldn’t know how
to choose.”
But that’s when she saw the oversized bathtub full of bubbles. Steam rose from within. Nothing could have looked more welcoming.
“This is exactly what I need.” She turned to Fergus. “How do I thank them for this? I’ve been feeling worn out and overcome, and this hits the spot.”
