Chapter 56

Laney stands in front of the growing crowd, Monty and I off to her right watching, waiting for the need to arise for us to either defend or help her in any way. Joffrey has called everyone in the coven to come to watch the proceedings. If that’s even the right word for what is happening, considering this is the first time this is all taking place.

Joffrey excuses himself as he walks toward a line of five individuals dressed in green smocks, tied with a white rope at their waists. They hide their hands behind their backs as they walk in sync, following Joffrey, who leads them toward Laney. She glances over at me and Monty and I move on instinct to her side. Monty follows my lead as we flank her and I can feel her unease fade.

The five selected stop in front of us, all of them nervous as they lift their chins and wait to see which of them will be honored with the role offered. A movement catches my eyes toward the back. The same woman from earlier who spoke so candidly with me about my