Page 85 of Magical Melee

“Do you have a huge wand?” I asked, genuinely curious.

Keegan’s lips moved into laughter when I realized what my question sounded like.

“What do you think?”

My cheeks instantly flamed red, but I couldn't stop laughing.

“I mean, it’s not the size of the wand. It’s how you use it,” I offered.

Keegan laughter only grew as he shook his head. “My wand suits me just fine.”

“So, no complaints then?”

His brows lifted. “Would it matter?”

I liked seeing this side of Keegan but had to look away as heat rolled through me. Seeing him like this felt natural and more like him. But the moment my eyes returned to his, he grew serious again.

“What kind of magic do you know?”

“It depends on what’s needed. Protection spells, elemental magic, healing, guardian practices…”

“So, a little bit of everything?”

He nodded.

“Is Gideon a warlock, too?”

Keegan nodded. “A powerful one. But unlike me, Gideon’s bonded with dark forces. He uses his power to manipulate and destroy.”

“And you use yours to protect,” I said, more to myself than to him. “You’re like Stonewick’s magical bodyguard.”

Keegan raised an eyebrow. “Something like that.”

I couldn’t help but smile. “You seem like the bodyguard type.”

“Why’s that?” he asked, his tone light.

“Big, broody, sincere,” I said, smirking. “But you’re allergic to giving straight answers.”

Keegan laughed again, a sound that sent a pleasant warmth spreading through my chest. “Fair point.”

The tension between us shifted for a moment, becoming something lighter, almost playful. I could see a different side of Keegan now—one that wasn’t all seriousness and stern warnings. It was a nice change and, honestly, kind of endearing.

“So,” I said, leaning back in my chair, “what’s your go-to magic trick?”

Keegan’s smile widened. “You’ll have to wait and see.”

“Typical,” I said, rolling my eyes. “Fine, keep your secrets. But don’t think I won’t figure them out.”

“I wouldn’t expect anything less,” he said. His gaze steadied on mine, and I felt a thrill.

The room fell into a comfortable silence, the weight of earlier conversations momentarily lifted. I found myself relaxing, despite everything. For the first time since arriving in Stonewick, I felt like I was starting to understand the people around me—and maybe even myself.

“Thanks, Keegan,” I said softly, breaking the silence.

“For what?” he asked, his tone curious.

“For finally answering my question,” I said with a small smile. “And for, you know, not being a total enigma for once.”