I spun and sprinted out the door before I could spiral into a panic and stop myself. But when I got into the hallway I froze. I had no idea where I was or which way to go. I didn’t remember coming in here at all. Tennessee chuckled and moved by me, gesturing for me to follow him up the stairs.
With every step my stomach tightened more. My pulse was beating like crazy.
Tennessee pushed the door open at the top of the staircase, then stepped aside and held it open for me. Bright sunlight shined through the opening and it felt almost like I’d stepped into one of Tegan’s portals.
But then I stepped out — and froze.
“SAFFIE!” Everyone shouted.
The entire Coven was sitting just beyond the door like they were waiting for me.
I gasped and my eyes watered.
And then they pounced. Once second I was standing by myself, the next I was surrounded by all of them. With everyone in ceremonial white I couldn’t tell who was who, but I felt each of their spirits as they tackled me in the biggest group hug ever.
Light pierced through the hug and then warm air swept over my face as everyone backed away.
Except for Tegan.
She stood front and center with her eyes glistening.
“Tegan—” my voice broke. I dove for her, wrapping my arms around her tight. “Thank you. You saved me. You said you would and you did.”
She hugged me harder than even Tennessee had. When she stepped back her eyes were definitely tearing up. “I had lots of help. Goddess, I’m so happy you’re back.”
Easton leapt over and rubbed the top of my head. “DOBBY IS A FREE ELF!”
I snorted.
Royce pushed him out of the way and draped his arm around my shoulders, then started singing about being free as a bird but I did not know the song.
“Royce, she doesn’t know that song,” Cooper grumbled and rolled his eyes. He looked to me and winked.
“And why do you insist on singing in that awful voice? That’s not even how you sound.” Henley sighed but she was laughing. “Where’d you find whites that small so fast?”
“Oh, I made it. With magic.”
“She’s gonna teach me how to do it,” Tennessee said in a chipper voice that made me smile.
Everyone laughed at him…and then attacked me with hugs again. It was wonderful to feel so loved and welcomed. My heart was so full. After so long, I was finally free.
“Your wings aren’t pink?” Deacon said and then slammed his hand over his mouth.
I felt my face warm and knew I was blushing. I tucked my fiery hair behind my ears. “Oh, right…that’s a long story but this is how they really look, like for real.”
“Wow. They’re beautiful.” Tegan reached out and squeezed my hands. “Saffie, I’m so happy you’re home.”
My head snapped up and my eyes watered. “Home.”
“Home,” Tenn and Tegan said at the same time.
I smiled and sighed so hard my shoulders sagged. “I forget what home feels like.”
“We’ll help you remember,” Tegan said softly. “How are you feeling? Your magic feels restored.”
My heart sank. “Yes, but…I just…I need Riah to wake up.”
She bit her lip and nodded. “I’m sorry to drag you away from him right now, but—”
“You’re being crowned Coven Leader.” I grinned. “Tennessee told me. It won’t take long and I would not miss this.”
Tegan’s eyes watered more. “Thank you.”
Tennessee cleared his throat. “So, shall we crown our Queen of Darkness?”
I grinned. “Absolutely.”
Chapter Twenty-Six
Tegan
This is it. This is actually happening.
I’m about to be crowned Coven Leader.
My pulse fluttered and butterflies danced in my stomach. I stepped in front of my full-body mirror and took a good, hard look at myself. I was in my white sheath dress that cut off at the knees and had no sleeves. My soulmate glyph was a stark contrast to the white and my pale skin. The glowing crystal pink heart on the back of my hand sparkled.
I didn’t look any different – aside from the purple in my hair now went all the way up to my jaw. I hadn’t meant to do that but now that I was seeing it in a mirror I was not mad about it. Not only did it look cool, but it was also like I had a new style going into this new phase of my life. More responsibility, more hair dye, right?
You’re stalling, Bishop.
I took a deep breath and then did a little check to make sure I had everything I needed. I wore at