The Witch's Devil (Complete)

Chapter 33, Never Forgotten

~Ember's POV~
Nearly A Year Later

Hastily I move above, in and out, weaving between the makeshift aisles of books, tomes, newspapers, magazines, and more. Checking in on any customer that is quietly sitting in our one of many nooks to read, study, work, relax, whatever they wish in a more seclusion. Taking whispered drink orders from a couple, two wolves most likely from Damien's pack. Preparing a book order for pickup. Keeping myself busy with normalcy that comes with work. Finally having one of my life's dreams back in full swing.

Starting with my title business— Amethyst & Tomes— had a few rough months after the attack. Requiring repairs, new security system, and redecorating; which was my favorite part. That was a difficult four months. After the murders— no, that's not right, fuck— they were what comes from a witches thread. Fated bonds for any non human beings, in all our cultures, can make those bonds protective bordering on possessiveness.

Then I worked on myself and my home, throwing myself into minor projects; around my victorian home; warding it well around the property's edge, repainting my bedrooms, and cleaning out. It was a busy three months. Such wonderfully tiring work keeping oneself from their thoughts.

Finally my friendships; Damien was the easiest out of the bunch thankfully being understanding to the cards dealt, Cozbi still around working part time oddly— but she and I worked out the bumps, Samual on the other hand has been a trail of slow progress. She stopped coming into work for awhile there, not to mention no contact outside for a worrisome amount of time, but thankfully an olive branch appeared in the form of a spazz-rocket calico named Cass.

Samual stopped by the shop only a month ago; worried about having stolen Cass from her shop home. Which brought us— admittedly awkward— light hearted laughter. Allowing us to have a sit down and discuss what all went wrong. By the end tears were shed, tight hugs, and now Samual has the time as the pet owner of a ridiculous fluff ball just full of sass. It brought me a smile to see just how much companionship Cass gifted her. Especially in those long ten months.

A faint familiar voice pulls me from my thoughts, "Ember?"

Fluttering my lashes as I work through what that was; why my mind wandered so far. Looking around I see Althea staring back at me with concern. Those bright blue eyes peeking out from under her large hood.

My gaze shifted down to my hands. Holding the brown paper we use as gift wrap for books. Like a click snapped into place. Jumping up at attention with an apologetic smile. "Oh no, I'm so sorry about that Althea." Chuckling softly, giving her a small grin that deep down I knew didn't meet my eyes.

"It's okay, you just looked," She spoke softly, averting her gaze, the shadow of her hooded cloak— decorated in gold rings and accents, overtaking her face. "Well how do I put this," Biting her bottom lip, such a caring small soul that towered above me.

Pin straight, raven-colored hair running down either side of her face. Flowing like a river over her plumped, youthful face. She had ivory bits of carved bone in her piercings and scattered around her hooded cloak. Her mask off, signaling she was off the job. Wearing that black witch's dress of old; loose fitting bits of fabric sewn together allowing it to flow, a tie around in waist bringing her supple figure into view, a split that ran up from its hem on the floor up to her right hip with a decorative skull placed there. Strings of golden beads and cuffs with golden engraved detailing. Mature, motherly, kind-natured soul.

Althea seemed lost for words as I quickly packed her purchases up. With a smile I spoke gently, "I'm okay Althea— I promise." Handing the bag over the counter to her. "Here you go!" The words forced with a chirped expression.