It was already five minutes to midnight, when the moon would be at its highest point, so she had to hurry. Diana went around the circle with water she’d collected from the ocean, then with a stick of calamus-scented incense, and finally with a lighted white candle. Pungent, smoky smells filled the air. “Cassie,” Adam called out when he spotted her. “Where’ve you been? I’ve been calling you.” “I’m sorry. I know.” Cassie continued watching Diana. “I was helping my mom clean up after dinner and I lost track of time.” “Uh-oh,” Faye said, loud enough for everyone to hear. “Don’t you two know good communication is the foundation of a healthy relationship?” “Actually,” Suzan said, “I’m pretty sure it’s trust.” Faye smirked. “No, that can’t be it.” Adam was not amused by their banter. “I had something important to tell you.” He made an effort to pull Cassie aside. “That’s why I kept calling.” “You guys! It’s almost midnight, come on!”
