Clem cracked a smile, though it didn’t reach her eyes. She’d been quiet and withdrawn since the witch hunter got rounded up by the council a few months ago. “I’m happy to have played a role in your rise, however small.”

“Are you kidding?” Leanne nudged Clem. “You’re a VIP, babe.”

The older Waterhouse cousin wore a crafty look. “Does that mean you’ll fix the parking problem downtown and repair the potholes on our street first?”

Leanne laughed. “I literally just got elected.”

Shaking her head, she joined Vanessa, who was chatting with Margie, and hugged each of them in turn. “Thank you both.”

“I didn’t do much,” Margie said in a self-deprecating tone.

Leanne drew Vanessa aside at the first chance she got. Because she refused to be like her mother, Leanne tried to give people time, but it was hard to know if that registered as patience or indifference. It wasn’t like they never talked these days, but the quality of the conversation was…different, more superficial.

“I’ve been waiting,” Leanne said, “but it’s starting to look like you don’t want to talk, period. And if that’s true, it’s fine. Just know that I’m here if you change your mind.”

Vanessa said quietly, “I feel like I’m losing you.”

She blinked. “What?”

“You’re busy all the time. I used to pop over whenever, and I could count on you being down 24/7. But lately, it’s not like that.”

“I’m sorry,” Leanne said.

“I wasn’t even gonna bring it up because I get it. And I didn’t mean to make you feel bad tonight—on your night—but you did ask. So, fact is, I can’t even figure out if there’s space for me in this new life of yours.” She leveled a steady look on Leanne, wearing her usual no-bullshit expression. “You think it didn’t hurt my feelings when I found out you’re hanging out in couples with Danica and her man? Have you even asked me if I’m seeing anyone lately?”

Fuck.

“No. And you’re right, this is my fault. I’m so sorry. I’ve been shitty to you. Of course there’s space for you.”

“It’s also possible that I’m sensitive because…honestly, I thought you were the last person who’d settle down. I didn’t see our ‘single ladies’ tour ever coming to an end.”

“Wait, back up. Are you seeing someone?”

Vanessa made a sound that was a mix between a laugh and a snort. “Don’t even try. I deserve your full attention, and we both know you can’t focus on me tonight.”

“Sorry again. I’ll do better. We’ll go out soon, talk about everything, then drink until we drop and dance until we can’t see straight.”

“Deal.”