Spells (Bayou Magic 2)

Thank the goddess for magic.

I’ve always left that sort of thing up to Millie. It’s not that I don’t believe. It’s the exact opposite, actually.

It’s that I’ve seen what magic can do, how it can destroy, and I avoid it like the plague.

Just like I avoid Jackson Pruitt.

Who, by the way, is here. And that’s why I’m in the damn bathroom. I was so mad when Millie told me she invited him.

But he’s her friend, and she’s stubborn.

And I can handle it. I’m an adult. And I know that sooner or later—okay, sooner—we’ll have to work together. I feel it.

I know he’s part of my destiny.

But damn it, I’m just not ready. Not yet.

So, today, I’m going to pull up my big-girl panties and enjoy my sister’s special day. I’ll deal with Jack some other time.

I nod, happy with this decision and feeling bolstered from my little pep talk, and walk out of the bathroom.

It’s suddenly grown quiet outside, which is odd for a wedding reception of at least a hundred guests.

I frown as I walk around the side of the house. The air is still. There’s no music. No laughter or talking.

Just…silence.

“Hey, guys?” I call out. “What’s going on?”

Everyone is standing, facing away from me. Not moving. Just standing as if they’re in a trance.

“Guys?”

Collectively, they all turn to stare right at me.

And every single one of them is missing their eyes.