I've never been so proud of Mom. How she held herself like a queen, not a prisoner, the way she smiled at everyone as though they were there to see her, as a star, someone they admired.
And they did admire her. The outswell of positive energy was almost overwhelming. So much for the jealousy and bad feelings Pender mentioned toward us and our coven. They loved Mom, it was obvious. I didn't take my eyes off of her to know it and didn't need to. Our magic was so close it felt all connected and it was clear the gathered witches viewed her as someone to be adored and venerated.
I allowed myself a moment of cocky confidence. Batsheva and Odette's evil plans didn't stand a chance. Not against Mom's popularity.
Epiphany moment. Was this why they were going after Mom? Odette's reasons were clear to me, what with her revenge vendetta and all. And while I knew Batsheva wanted Mom's power, was there more to it? Was this a way to prevent my mother from breaking Batsheva's hold on the Council?