Magic of the Best Kind, Part 9

I was astounded at how one’s identity could change overnight. I’d always been Maren, the apothecary’s daughter. Now I was the magician’s wife, and my name didn’t seem to matter. I was too busy and happy to care. Ben and I were learning to live together – learning not to drink my coffee without asking, …

Magic of the Best Kind, Part 8

They were all waiting in the kitchen: Ma and Da and Elise and Caralynn in her nightgown, wisps of blonde hair making a crown around her forehead. “Sorry I’m late,” I said, cheeks warm. Their grins seemed to widen as one. I looked from one face to the other. “What?!” “When’s the wedding?” Caralynn burst …

Magic of the Best Kind, Part 7

That spring brought numerous cases of flu. Ben was in the village for days at a time, going from house to house to heal as he could. With him, fevers broke where they wouldn’t for others. Gossip swirled in the shop, but Da and I kept quiet. If it was important enough, they could ask …

Magic of the Best Kind, Part 6

Quinlan’s apprentice quieted down over the winter, and Ben spent less time locked in his magic room. He began teaching me bookbinding, which I enjoyed considerably more than anything herb-related. “Do you use magic for this?” I wanted to know. He smiled. “Only to make the finished product more durable and give the quality a …

Magic of the Best Kind, Part 5

“He doesn’t like it, lass,” said Mamsie as we got lunch ready. “He thoroughly dislikes doing big spells, although he’s very good at it.” “Why not?” I wanted to know. “He has a headache the entire next day.” She smiled grimly and set out three mugs for tea. “But he also thinks they’re unnecessary. And …