"Well, yes. To tell you the truth, I did sense a strange magical surge late last night, but I couldn't find its source. It was probably from this wishing stone granting your wish."
Jen's jaw dropped. "You can sense magic?"
Martin chuckled. "Of course. I'm a warlock. Only, nobody was supposed to know until after the wedding."
"So, why are you telling me now?"
"Because now I know you're already deeply involved in magic yourself. No surprise there, considering your family. Besides, in a minute, it won't matter any more."
"Huh? What do you mean?"
Martin brushed a hand over Jen's forehead. "Because I still intend to marry you, Jen. I've invested too much into my plans to have them disrupted by some careless wish. Obviously, Jessica had been my first choice, though I can't remember it, but since that's no longer an option, you'll do just as well. Better, in fact. Unlike your sisters, it seems you've never had a chance to build up any mental defenses."
"But I " Jen's protests faded as her body relaxed. The sensation of Martin's hand on her forehead seemed so warm and inviting, and she found herself leaning into it. Gradually, her eyes glazed over, and a soft smile played over her lips. "Mmmmmm."
"That's it," soothed Martin. "Good girl. Everything's going to be alright. Soon I'll have what I want, and you'll be more than happy to give it to me."
