“You’ve got one of the strongest Powers I’ve ever met,” Lauren gasped once after a long session that left them both streaming with sweat.

Molly nodded, unsurprised. Josiah and Sarah had each told her the same thing. She muttered, “I hope it’ll be enough if I run into trouble.”

When I run into trouble.

Because as Sarah had once said to her, witches were lightning rods for interesting and unusual events. And she intended on living a very long and interesting life.

When they sat to drink some water, Lauren gave her a sidelong smile. “You know she’s grooming you, don’t you?”

“What?” She shook herself out of her preoccupation. “Who is?”

“Sarah. She’s grooming you to take over running the Everwood coven when she… You know, when she passes.”

“She is?” Astonishment threatened to floor her. “You must be mistaken. I’m the least experienced witch in Everwood.”

“Delphine and I’ve talked about it. We both think you have the kind of combination that would matter most to Sarah—the healer side and the fighter side, and you’re extraordinarily strong in both. Everwood is a sanctuary to some people who really need it, and the leader of our coven has to be strong enough to protect it. But the healing matters too. And I’ve known Sarah for a lot of years, and she’s never invited any of her students to live with her.”

Molly blew out a breath. “I thought she let me stay there because I offered to help, and because…” She had as much difficulty saying it as Lauren had. “Well, because time is short.”

“Before you arrived, each witch in the coven was going up to help out a few hours every day.” Lauren laughed. “Don’t look so crestfallen. Your magic-infused foods have done far more for her than any of us could. But… yes, you should give it some thought, because sooner or later, I think Sarah’s going to have The Talk with you.”

Next to Sarah, Lauren was the most senior witch. Pursing her lips, Molly asked with care, “How would you feel about that?”

“I think you’d be a good choice, Molly. You have a lot to learn, but you also have a solid head on your shoulders. I like the fact that you’re not too young but you’re still willing to learn and cooperate with others. I also appreciate the kindness you’ve shown to Sarah, but more importantly, to others who don’t have any way of paying you back. If the coven has an overwhelming objection, you might find the position hard to hold on to, but I’d back Sarah’s decision. I’ll be here to support you if you choose to take us on.”