I spent about an hour with the Hensley girls, and enjoyed every minute of it. When I emerged from their quarters I felt much better about the whole situation. Yes, it was one coven and yes, that coven didn't carry a lot of clout. But I'd not only survived my first conversation with another leader, I'd made two friends.

Gram was still sulking when I let my shields down as I stepped into the hall, their door swinging shut behind me.

Next? I didn't apologize. I had nothing ...