Chapter Fifteen

Mika wakes aching after taking the magical blowback from Terracotta’s stunt and realizes she has been in witch’s hibernation for twenty-six hours. Jamie, exhausted from keeping vigil, explains the household took shifts watching her and thanks Mika for protecting Terracotta. Mika confirms everyone’s magic is stable and asks for rest.

The household rushes in with affection and relief. Jamie clears the room so Terracotta can apologize privately. Mika reassures Terracotta that protecting family isn’t wrong but warns against recklessness. The girls then launch a triumphant “triple hug,” falling asleep piled around Mika, underscoring their new closeness.

Over the next two days, Mika recuperates while the others fuss over her, an unfamiliar comfort. One evening, Rosetta reads Persuasion while Altamira and Terracotta practice an advanced animation spell on jointed dolls, building precision and control.

Jamie interrupts with Mika’s phone: a text from Primrose summoning her to tea the next day. Mika reasons any surge would have only faintly rippled outward but could have drawn notice. She plans to meet Primrose far from Nowhere House, confident the secret remains safe.

Jamie challenges her nonchalance, worried about Mika’s health and safety. Mika misreads his concern as guilt or anxiety about Edward’s visit. Jamie’s quiet response highlights that few have ever cared for Mika simply because they cared. They agree she will go to tea and report back, leaving the tension of exposure and their growing bond unresolved.