"I'm not ready for today." Zeke stood in the closet doorway, looking at Val getting dressed.
Val slipped on jeans and a t-shirt. She walked over, wrapped her arms around his waist, and laid her head on his shoulder. She took a deep breath, inhaling the sweet smell of patchouli and bergamot. "I'm not either, but we can do this. It's what's best for our people.
Zeke pulled her in tight. "I really wish you would let Lanie put a spell on me. I could go with you."
Val pulled away and looked up at him. "It's too risky. Your place is her, getting everyone ready for the fight, that is your skill set,, that's what you're good at. My place is where my skills can be used. I know this world, and I know how it operates. I know how to play this game."
Zeke nodded. "If things get dicey, promise me
