Chapter 24: S1 Hidden: Filtered Magic

Sophia Mahoney

The water moves, sloshing about. Repositioning his body, he sits at the bottom of the hot tub. The redistributed water laps up and over Sophia's thighs and waist. Nervous energy swirls around her, making the air heavy.

Aden takes hold of her left hand and coaxes her off of the step she's sitting on.

"Kneel in the water in front of me," he commands. "But keep your wounded hand dry."

Slowly, she lowers herself and kneels, and he draws her closer to his chest. When her knees are on each side of him, he pulls her down on top of his lap.

"I want you to picture the magic flowing from my body being released into the water. Imagine it swirling around us before you absorb it." Cupping her face in his hands, he kisses her. His touch is soft and tender. It's not as urgent as it was before. "It will help to ease the intensity."

"Water as a buffer." Her brows scrunch together. "And you didn't think to tell me that before?"