We hid her in our room. Kanesha stayed with her while I went to work.

“You seem distracted,” Sarita said.

“There was a woman on the beach earlier trying to get away from an abusive husband or boyfriend.” I still wasn’t sure which.

“Ugh. Does she need a posse?”

I considered. “Maybe. I mean, the guy might have a gun.”

“Point. Has she talked to the police yet?”

“Not yet. And you know how well restraining orders work if the guy’s determined.”

“Don’t I just.” Sarita glanced around.

“But one would be a good idea anyway.” I had a feeling I’d still end up beating on the guy. No. This wouldn’t be resolved until after I left.

I had to find local help for her. It would be a challenge, but there had to be a coven of white witches or somebody who would assist.

Or maybe the selkie would, once she understood why the girl had tried to steal her cloak.

But a coven of witches would be better. They might be able to teach her to protect herself. Or get her out of town. This place was probably too small to have a women’s shelter.

Then it occurred to me she might not be local either. After the shoot I went back to our room.

“So, where are you from?”

“Maine,” she admitted.

“Is he from there to?”

“Yes.” A pause. “I’m not going back with him.”

“Maybe we can hide you until he runs out of money or time off.”
She shook her head. “He’d quit his job first.”

“Okay, then you need to talk to the police. Kanesha…” I tailed off. “No, I’ll go with you. Kanesha, find the local magic shop.”

It was a small town. It wasn’t that small. There had to be one somewhere. I’d rather send her to the cops, but this was the south. And heck, even in the north, you didn’t send the black person to talk to the cops.

Stupidity, but there it was. Kanesha sighed a bit, then nodded. “Alright.”

She knew it didn’t make sense either. I offered my hand. “What’s your name, even?” I hadn’t even asked.

“Eden.”

Pretty, unusual. “Can your parents help?”

She shook her head. “They…died in a car crash, three years ago. My aunt, though. But he’d know I was going there.”
And possibly kill both of them. I nodded. “Stay with me. If he tries anything…”

“You’ll get arrested for assault.”

I grinned. “No I won’t. I’ll make sure he hits first.”
At that, she managed a weak smile. “Can magic help?”

“It already has.”