Witching Roses

Witches

"Where were you yesterday?" Jasper asked, taking a seat next to me on the courtyard bench.

I struggled to appear composed, though guilt clung to me like an unshakable shadow. My eyes were fixated on the branches of the gnarled tree swaying in the courtyard—the very place where I had witnessed a haunting vision of the hanging women.

"The real question is, what are you wearing to the party tonight?" Jasper said, placing a hand on my shoulder. My heart silently thanked him for steering the conversation away so effortlessly.

Jasper's presence was both a welcome distraction and a reminder that I needed to keep up appearances. The party in the woods had slipped my mind entirely, and while part of me wanted to retreat from everything, I knew that blending in was crucial. Acting normal meant participating in the social life of Eldermoon, no matter how much I wished I could disappear.

I forced a smile, trying to push the guilt and anxiety to the back of my mind. "The party... right. I almost forgot," I admitted, my voice sounding more casual than I felt. "I guess I haven't really thought about what to wear."

Jasper grinned, his enthusiasm contagious. "Well get excited because you are going to see how Eldermoon comes alive with a party, everyone will be there!"

"Willow Windward?" An elderly woman said as she approached me and Jasper, I hadn't seen her before but by the looks of her she must work for Eldermoon.

Jasper and I both looked up, startled by the sudden interruption. The elderly woman had an air of authority about her, her eyes sharp and discerning as they settled on me. Her presence exuded a quiet strength that made me immediately wary.

"Yes, that's me," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady. "Can I help you with something?"

She gave a polite nod, her expression unreadable. "I am Ms. Thornfield, assistant to the Dean. He wants to speak with you. He says it's urgent."

My heart plummeted. Had they discovered the truth about Claudia? Had they pieced together that I was responsible for her death? A wave of anxiety washed over me, and despite the cool autumn breeze, I felt an intense heat, compelling me to shed my jacket.

Jasper's eyes darted between Ms. Thornfield and me, his earlier enthusiasm fading into concern. "Is everything okay, Willow?" he asked, his hand still resting on my shoulder, now offering silent support.

I forced a calm facade, though inside my mind raced with panic. "I'm not sure," I said, trying to keep my voice even. "I guess I'll find out."

Ms. Thornfield's gaze remained steady, revealing nothing of the nature of the Dean's summons. "Please follow me," she said, turning on her heel and walking briskly towards the main building.

I stood, my legs feeling like they might give out beneath me. Jasper squeezed my shoulder before letting go. "Do you want me to come with you?" he offered, his voice filled with genuine concern.

I shook my head, grateful for his support but knowing this was something I had to face alone. "No, it's okay. I'll handle it. Thanks, Jasper."

He nodded, though his worry was palpable. "I'll meet you outside your dorm at 8 for the party tonight"

I followed Ms. Thornfield toward the main building, each step feeling heavier as the weight of uncertainty pressed down on me. The sharp autumn air felt colder than it should have, or maybe it was just the icy fear creeping through my veins.

What could the Dean possibly want with me? Had they already pieced together what happened with Claudia? My mind whirled with questions I couldn't answer, and the guilt I'd been trying to bury clawed its way to the surface.