“Now, Tina, you know that I’m anything but regressive like some of the crotchety old fools on the council. I’m up for the position of Head of Council and if that happens, this ridiculous law will never see the light of day, but I have to tell you about it in case it gets through before I can be voted in. You are like a daughter to me and I wouldn’t want them binding you from doing magic for a ridiculous infraction. There are a lot of malicious witches on the Council. You know that from your past experiences with them.”

Tina hung her head, slightly embarrassed that she had lashed out before hearing everything she had to say. 

“I’m sorry Peggy. I…just love her so much. I’ve never ‘fraternized’ before with a client. I hope you believe that. This isn’t some fling. If they take my magic I won’t be able to help her. That can’t happen…It’s only ten days away now and…”

“Slow down, Tina. I don’t think it will happen right now. There are plenty on the board that are against it and that alone will hold it up for a while. I just wanted to warn you about what is going on. And to be honest, I wanted to see how you were. You know I promised your mother that I would keep an eye out for you while she was in Europe.”

Tina smiled and put her hand over Peggy’s. “Thank you Peggy, I know you are only trying to look out for me. I tried to talk to Momma about everything but she was on some…retreat or something where she only had a few minutes a day where she was allowed to speak. I decided she would probably need more than that to give me her thoughts on the matter.”

Peggy laughed knowingly. “Yes, I believe you’re right and she will get her chance. I spoke to her last night. She’s flying into town in a few days and she’s coming to see you.”

“Did you…did you tell her about me and Bette?”

“Tina, dear…she already knew. Don’t ask me how. You know your mother. She has unlimited resources when it comes to you.”