Page 3 of Hex Appeal

Maybe he really is just looking, but most men who come into the shop alone are shopping for someone else. I wander over.

“Trying to find something for your wife?”

His gaze flicks to mine. “Don’t have one.”

“Girlfriend?”

“Don’t have one of those either.”

I mentally give myself an enthusiastic high-five. “Mom?”

He shakes his head.

“Yourself?”

“Maybe.”

Well. Better and better. I’d love to help this guy find what he needs. And I’m willing to be thorough.

I’m about to pepper him with enough questions to determine exactly what kind of candle a tall, dark, single stranger needs in his life when Ivy approaches the counter.

Duty calls.

I ring up her rosemary and mint candle, then slide it across the counter. “Remember the instructions.”

“I know.”

“I mean it.”

She rolls her eyes, but she’s smiling. I come around the counter and rest my hands lightly on her shoulders. “Take a breath.”

Ivy dutifully inhales.

“When you light this tonight, I want you to think about what you need to accomplish in the moment. Not everything you need to do between now and Friday. Just what you’re doing right then. Set your intention, take another deep breath, and remind yourself that you already know this stuff. The candle isn’t going to write your paper or take your tests for you.”

“Unfortunately.”

“But it can remind you to slow down, focus, and trust yourself.”

Her smile brightens.

“You’ve got this.”

She throws her arms around me for a quick squeeze. “Thanks, Miss Serena.”

“And don’t burn it while you’re sleeping.”

“I know.”

“Or leave it unattended.”

“I know.”

“Or—”

“I promise. I’ll follow the instructions.”

“Then go be wicked smart.”