Most people couldn’t. They rarely looked past the surface, past her bright, insouciant facade. He had a knack for making her feel defenseless. Normally, she’d be pulling back by now, building walls and shoring up defenses to keep him from seeing all the emotional scars and unhealed wounds. For some reason, she didn’t fear Trev, though, like his touch might be gentle enough to tend the hurts she’d never allowed anyone else close enough to touch.

“I was just thinking about Danica and Clem going their separate ways. Though I’m not sure what’s up with Clem lately, I’m positive Danica’s serious about Titus. They’ll end up moving in together, likely get married at some point, and—”

“Your friends have a house together, plus the business. Are you worried it could get messy?” As usual, it was like he could read her mind.

“Somewhat. But it’s their issue. I’m not the type to meddle. I’m there for my friends the minute I’m asked, but…” She lifted a shoulder. “I guess I don’t see any point in sticking my oar in before I’m asked to row.”

Trev leaned over and kissed her on the forehead. “That makes total sense. I love the way you put things.”

Before he could withdraw, she cupped his face in her palm and nuzzled her nose against his. “That goes for you too, by the way. If you need me, I’ll be there. I’m giving you space to figure things out, but I don’t want you to think I don’t care.”

“I know,” he said. “And I appreciate it.”

Judging by the softness of his tone and the gleam of his hazel eyes, he meant it. Smiling, Leanne slid out of the car, letting him deal with the houseplant. As she carefully made her way to the front door, it opened before she could knock. It was already getting dark, long summer days well behind them. Danica stood in the bright-yellow backlight, bouncing with excitement.

She pulled Leanne into an impulsive hug. “I can’t believe we’re doing this. I’m so excited. It’s like we’re sisters-in-law or something, dating best friends who are like brothers.”

Leanne restrained a chuckle at the other witch’s excitement. She had to admit it was pretty unlikely, but she let herself be drawn into Titus’s house and accepted another hug, this one from Titus. The place smelled incredible, fresh bread and lemons, and her mouth watered over the richness of an aroma she couldn’t even place.

“That’s chicken marsala,” Trev predicted. “His go-to when he wants to impress someone. You, by the way. These days, he barely bothers making me a sandwich.”

Titus protested immediately, “That’s not true. But you’ve been here so much, you even rearranged my spice cupboard last time you stayed with Doris.”