Free Everspell by Samantha Combs

asked. I knew she loved my dad very much, but I also knew she wasn’t the one who died. She’s a pretty great lady and if this guy made her happy, that’s all that mattered to me. She deserved it. She was really pretty when she smiled.
    “No, Mom, it doesn’t bother me. Everybody should have someone who makes them smile.”
    “Oh, honey.” My mom sounded hoarse. “You make me smile every day.”
    “Come on, mom. Don’t go mushy on me.”
    “That’s what moms do, Logan. But we can change the subject. Elizabeth told me we have friends arriving soon?”
    “Yeah. She called in the troops.”
    “I let her know she could count on me for whatever she needed. I went through this once before. I’ll be ready again.” She meant when Jade got kidnapped. My mom sounded fierce and my heart swelled with pride. I guess I knew where I got my strength and determination. I said as much to her.
    “Oh no, I can’t take all the credit. Most of it belongs to your dad, Logan.” she said firmly. “He was the strongest man I knew. When things seemed at their worst, he could look at me and calm me with just a glance. He never went to pieces over anything, just assessed the situation with the precision of a military strategist. And with you kids, he was like a gentle giant. There is so much of your father in you.” Even over the phone I could hear her smiling. I could even picture that silly “that’s my boy” grin she has. “That’s where most of your strength and determination comes from. And I suspect, the parts of you that Serena loves, those are the best parts of your father, too.”
    “Well, I think I got some good stuff from you too, mom. But speaking of Serena, I want to check on her and Tabitha before I go to sleep. Tabitha really went through it tonight.”
    “I’m sure she did. And you are sweet to call them. I’ll let you go, darling. I guess we’ll see you in the morning. I’ll tell your sister you called. Goodnight, son. I love you.”
    “G‘night, Mom. Love you, too.”
    I rang off and immediately keyed in Serena’s number. She answered after two rings.
    “Hey, It’s me. I just wanted to check on you and say good night. How’s Tabitha?”
    “She’s fine. Sleeping like a baby. Today wiped her out. Me too.” I felt better just hearing Serena’s sweet voice.
    “I won’t keep you. It’ll be a long day tomorrow.” I realized I was tired too.
    “Don’t I know it. Just the thought of it keeps me yawning. I’m just so exhausted.”
    “Go to sleep. I just wanted to make sure you were okay.”
    “I am. We all are. Thank you for tonight, Logan. I never thanked you.”
    “You never have to. Good night Serena. Sleep tight.” I pictured her snuggling into the covers and wished feverishly that I was there with her.
    “Good night, Logan. Dream of me.”
    “I always do.”
    I hung up and crawled into bed, beat but satisfied. I knew where my family was, my friends, and my beautiful Serena. For this reason, I knew I would doze easily and well. Knowing everyone I loved was safe allowed my weary eyes to close and as I sank into my soft, welcoming pillow, I fell into a deep and restful sleep.

Chapter Thirteen
     
    LILY
    Since Elizabeth and Serena were expecting guests today, Elizabeth and I agreed that I would open the flower shop alone and work by myself all day. I had done it before. It wasn’t easy, but it could be done. We had prepped all the orders the day before, so mostly I had to just make sure the blooms looked fresh, and the ribbons and bows all matched, and the correct cards were on the right arrangements. As expected, the morning went smoothly.
    I worked steadily on arrangements for the next day when I heard the little bell over the door jingle. I wasn’t expecting anyone and we usually didn’t get walk-ins in the late afternoon. I put my scissors down and took off my work gloves.
    “Be right there!” I called out. I pushed the arrangement items aside and made sure the flowers were still