Chapter 45

Naomi

I crept along the overgrown path that led to the grand Manor House, my heart racing with each step. This was a place I had promised never to return to, but now I found myself drawn back by a force beyond my control. My magic hummed beneath my skin, urging me forward. I took careful steps, avoiding any crunching leaves or twigs that might give away my presence. I couldn’t risk being detected here.

As I approached the kitchen window, the faint murmur of voices drifted out into the open air. I paused, my steps sliding up against the outside wall closet to the window in order to remain hidden. I was going to help Cal and then find a cure for their curse, then leave them.

I listened closer, trying to make out the words my magic seems to extend from me breezing in through the window until I was floating above the three of them. Odette stood in her kitchen wearing a luxurious silk robe that had slipped off one shoulder, revealing smooth, tanned skin. It was on purpose from the way the