Nora's POV
The warm glow from my back porch light grows brighter as I quicken my steps. A bone-deep chill has settled into me since leaving the Shadowhaven, and I know it has nothing to do with the cool evening breeze. I did what needed to be done, and my friendships will survive this somehow.
Beyond Ophelia, I rarely saw the others daily anyway. But the possibility always existed. I could visit the Academy library whenever I wanted. I could drop by the Gathering Hall to chat with fellow witches anytime the mood struck. Now that freedom has been stripped away, and the loss cuts deeper than I expected.
The back door swings open with a soft creak, and James materializes beside me instantly.
