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‘Katie is obviously aware of things, but I don’t think Mia’s really open to it.’ Ophelia looked to Rayenne, who nodded. ‘For all that she uses complementary approaches, she’s clinical first in her thinking. And neither are naturally gifted. Not like you.’

‘Me?’

‘Yes, Aiden, you. The shop recognised it the first time you walked through the door. We all did. The way you blend herbs and spices, the effects your blends and bakes have… it’s more than talent. You’re gifted. Strongly. And like with most people, your gift appears to be skills-based. You draw the magic out of things, and influence the magic inherent within things that you work with.’

‘Wow.’

‘Specifically, I believe you’re a kitchen witch: your magic comes from the herbs and spices you blend – and the way you mix your ingredients, and the intentions with which you bake. You should be mindful of that.’

‘Are you saying I’m magicking’ – he laughed – ‘is that even the right word? I’m magicking my bakes?’

‘Yes.’ She looked to Rayenne, who nodded. ‘Just be aware, and keep picking your herbs and spices with clear, good intentions, and keep mixing in your desire to help with every stir of your spoon. You won’t go far wrong.’

‘Because now I have magic?’ He shook his head, still not quite believing it.

‘You always did. Now you just know about it. Which brings responsibilities.’

He nodded seriously. ‘I understand. So, does this mean I can really heal? With magic?’

‘To a certain extent. Magic isn’t a cure-all,’ Ophelia explained. ‘It can accelerate normal repair and stimulate the strengths already within the body, but it can’t alter fate. For example, you couldn’t heal someone already dying – or impregnate someone. The rules of biology still apply.’

‘What about… like a genetic disorder?’

‘I’m afraid not. Magic can’t change someone’s innate being. It can help restore health, but not change someone’s make-up. You also can’t use magic to change someone’s mind, or influence them to do something they otherwise wouldn’t want to.’

‘But it can be a good nudge, sometimes.’ Rayenne smiled. ‘To encourage people to take the path they are supposed to be on. Or to take the leap they might be too scared to make.’

‘Right.’ Aiden didn’t know how he was feeling – to find out magic was real in one breath and have hopes of healing his ma dashed in the next had his head spinning.

You need to warn him, Mist added.

‘Warn me about what?’

‘Aiden.’ Ophelia leaned forward and squeezed his hand. ‘You have to be careful with this information. You can’t talk to people about it who don’t totally understand or appreciate it.’

‘What? Why not?’

‘The magic protects itself.’

‘You asked why we didn’t tell you sooner. We did try… or at least offered to have the conversation… but how many times were we interrupted? Or as soon as we tried to talk about it, you would find yourself compelled to do something else and you’d be distracted?’

‘Now you mention it, there may have been a few moments that come to mind.’ He stroked his beard. ‘You’re telling me that was deliberate?’

‘Not on our behalf!’ Rayenne hurriedly added. ‘But the magic can and will protect itself.’

However it needs to, Mist added, somewhat ominously.

‘What does that mean?’

‘That you really can’t discuss it with people who don’t know for themselves.’ Ophelia pulled a face. ‘Not without risking consequences.’

Aiden gulped, suddenly feeling nervous.

‘How are you feeling?’ Rayenne asked gently.

‘Like I’ve got a lot to think about. And like I want tea.’ He laughed – a strangled sound that caught in his throat. ‘Which will apparently be magicked.’

‘I’ll put the kettle on,’ Ophelia offered.