Hail to the Queen (Witch For Hire 2)

“Fel, I need a favor,” I say as we shut down our computers and clean up for the weekend.

“What’s up?”

“I need a girls’ night in if you don’t have anything planned.”

“Oh, you’re actually going to your house for once?” Fel teases.

“Stop it. I stay there plenty.”

“Uh huh?”

“With Sacha off with her parents for the past week, it’s been too quiet.”

“Hey, you don’t have to justify anything to me. If I had tall, dark, and fanged waiting for me, I’d be home with him, too.”

I giggle as we hit the lights and step out into the muggy evening.

“Are you telling me one of the court’s caught your eye?” I ask.

“Oh no, that’s all you. I have my hands full with Esçhete business.”

“You’d be amazed what you’ll do for love,” I say honestly. A year ago, I couldn’t have imagined myself in this position. We’re both compromising. We bend without breaking to meet in the middle.

“Wow. You’re openly admitting it. Cristobal does good work.”

“Denying it wouldn’t make it any less true. Besides, new year, new leaf, and I hope a better me.”

“The best you. I’ll meet you at your place?” she asks as she walks to her car.

“I’ll see you in a few.”

I blast Panic at the Disco and sing along. The music transports me to a place nothing can touch. I tap the beat out on the steering wheel and get lost in nostalgia and the high only music that touches your soul can bring. Upbeat as I pull behind her car in my driveway, I grab my purse and step out with a spring in my step.

“You already look more relaxed.”

“Knowing I’m going to get a chance to talk things out has definitely lifted a weight off my shoulders. Not to take away from spending time with my favorite cousin.”

“Yeah, yeah, no need to butter me up.” Fel rolls her eyes. “What’s this about?”

I lead her up the porch to my front door. “I’m still trying to figure that part out.”

“Does this have to do with whatever I walked into you and Mémé discussing the other day?”

“Yes. The information she gave me blew my mind. I’ve been sitting on it, and I can’t keep it in anymore.”

“Okay, now you’re kind of freaking me out,” Fel mumbles as we step inside.

I hang my keys on the hook by the door and lock it behind us. “We talked about the Reaping.”

“Oh, Jesus. How did you manage to get her do that?” Fel asks.

“Before I launch into that tale, I need snacks and Hurricanes.”

“The slumber party essentials,” she agrees.

There’s a special bond you develop when a friendship spans the time ours has. She provides an indescribable sense of comfort that eases me on my worst days. She’s a lifeline to sanity and stability in a world of constantly shifting circumstances and roles.

“Do you want to borrow some pajamas?” I ask.