“That’s what they all say at first,” she said with a faint smirk. “But you’re different, aren’t you?”
“I’m ready,” I said firmly.
She tilted her head as if considering. “You don’t have the air of a novice. You’ve brushed against magic before, haven’t you?”
I nodded. “Once. But I didn’t understand it. I want to.”
She drummed her fingers on the counter. “All right, Lia. I know someone. A witch. She’s... selective about her students.”
“Can you introduce me?”
“I’ll put in a good word,” she said. “If she’s interested, she’ll contact you. But I can’t make any promises.”
“Thank you,” I said, relief washing over me.
She held up a hand. “Don’t thank me yet. If she agrees, your life will change in ways you can’t imagine. You sure you’re ready for that?”
“Yes,” I said without hesitation.
“T
