Free Freak of Nature (The Lost Witch Trilogy #1) by Katie Lee O'Guinn

away and scooted closer to her, bringing her in for a hug. “We’re even then. Your walking into English class yesterday is still burned into my mind as one of the best moments of my life. And rescuing you is just a perk. It gives me something to look forward to every day.”
    Sarah laughed softly and reached up to play with the hair over his ear and then yanked on it playfully. “You know, I’m not exactly a damsel in distress. I had the situation completely under control before you showed up. But it’s still nice to know you’re looking out for me. I’ve never had that before. I have to admit, you’re growing on me.”
    Zane’s eyes turned soft and he leaned in to kiss her softly on her cheek. “Good, you’re falling right into my trap then.”
    The door rattled and the bell rang as the men walked out with their purchases. Zane looked around curiously as a different man walked in. Zane stiffened and pulled away from her, turning his body to block her from view. Sarah peeked around his arm and noticed the man was tall, with black hair that swept his collar. He was dressed in a business suit and looked wealthy and strangely familiar. His handsome face was smooth and he could have been anywhere from thirty to fifty. He had an older feel to him that contrasted with his young face though.
    “Would you happen to have any books on ancient rituals?” he asked Gretchen.
    Gretchen shook her head firmly. “Sorry, we’re more into the basics. Fiction and guide books and cook books with the occasional book on bird watching and dinosaurs. You might want to try Jasper’s in the city. I know the owner and he carries a diverse selection. I can give you his name if you have a moment,” she said sounding helpful, but looking grim.
    The man shook his head. “No need. I know just the man you’re talking about. Thanks for the information. Good day to you,” he said and walked out the door.
    Gretchen rubbed her arms quickly and then moved to re-join them at the counter.
    “Mom, who was that? His aura was slimier than that guy Drake’s this afternoon. He was practically shouting death,” Zane said sounding sincerely worried.
    Gretchen nodded her head in agreement. “I don’t think I’ve ever felt anything so dark before. I hope he doesn’t come back.”
    Sarah looked back and forth between the mother and son. “I don’t get this whole aura thing. Why can you see auras and I can’t? I just saw a rich guy who needed a haircut.”
    Gretchen looked at her curiously. “Well, it is strange. You might not have a feel for auras but you do have a highly developed sense of danger. If someone means you harm, your senses are already five steps ahead of you. And I have a feeling that that power slap you give everybody is just you subconsciously protecting yourself. I still don’t know why it doesn’t work on Zane, but I’ll figure it out. In the meantime, I don’t think I’d worry about it. We’ve got more pressing matters to deal with right now. Like your living situation. I don’t feel good sending you back home. But I can’t invite you to move in with us either, much as Zane would love it,” she said shaking her head at her son reprovingly.
    Zane blushed and got busy drinking his hot chocolate. “The greater good mom. Let’s keep that in mind.”
    Sarah held up her hand. “It’s okay. I’m not here to dump my problems on you. I’ve been living with my aunt since I was five. I can handle it and when I can’t, then I go to the woods. I have some time before it gets too cold. I’ll be okay. I’m here because you hired me to do a job not beg for a place to live.”
    Gretchen smiled at her and put her hands on her hips. “Well, too bad because I know the perfect situation. There’s a small apartment above the store. Zane and I live with my mom so we can keep an eye on her at night. Her daytime nurse leaves at 6:30, so we need to be there in case she wanders off. But I’d be happy to let you live in the little