Page 106 of Magical Melee

Keegan nodded. “It’s rare but not unheard of. The Academy marks those it deems significant. It means your connection to Stonewick is deeper than even we thought.”

I didn’t know what to say. The idea that a part of me had always been tied to this strange, magical place was both exhilarating and terrifying.

“My dad had the same.”

Keegan nodded. “I know.”

“But he’s no longer here. Magic couldn’t protect him.”

Keegan’s gaze dropped to the stone patio.

“So, what does this mean?” I asked finally. “Does it change anything?”

“It might,” Keegan said, his tone serious. “It could be why you feel such a strong pull toward the gardens. And why did the Academy let you in before?”

“But it’s still not a guarantee,” I said, echoing his earlier words.

“Exactly,” he said. “The Academy will decide when—and if—you’re ready.”

I let out a slow breath, trying to process everything. “Well, at least now I know I’m not completely imagining things.”

Keegan’s mouth quirked into the faintest hint of a smile. “You never were.”

For a moment, the weight of the situation lifted, replaced by a strange sense of comfort. Whatever lay ahead, I wasn’t facing it alone.

“Keegan, thank you for believing in me and in something I don’t even understand.”

Keegan nodded, and his serious demeanor returned. “I’ve been waiting a long time, Maeve. I’m just glad you returned when you did.”

“Me too.” I turned to the whitened sky that had covered the blue from moments before and smiled as the first snowflake gently floated to the ground. “Winter is finally coming.”

“It is,” Keegan said, gently sweeping his hand along my shoulders to move me forward. “I’ll see you later today.”

I nodded and headed back toward the tea shop. But I couldn’t help but move my coat to see the mark on my hip. It had always been a part of me, something I never thought twice about. Now, it felt like a key—one I was only beginning to understand.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

“You look to be in good spirits,” Stella nearly chirped as a group of customers left with their teas.

The afternoon rush hit, and hours went by at the speed of light.

“I’m feeling a little more grounded.”

And it was true. I felt somehow…lighter?

I didn’t know if it was from spending time with Keegan or because I might actually have some connection to the one place that could open doors to the magical world to me.

“Based in reality or…” Stella prompted.

My brows lifted in surprise. “Isn’t it one and the same?”

“Good, girl.” She smiled, and a bit of fang emerged.

It was really puzzling. I didn’t know if those canines had always been there, and I had chosen to ignore them, or if she was just letting loose around me.

“I’m meeting Keegan again soon.”

“It surprises me that he’s bringing a smile to your lips.” She eyed me with an amused glint in her gaze.