Hidden Nature

Nash dresses in a suit for their date and is pleased by how much he and Sloan have to talk about. She tells him how she ran cross-country; he played tennis. Nash tells her, “I have what I want. I was happy enough in New York. I’m happier here” (362). Sloan shares that she, too, is happier in Heron’s Rest than she was in Annapolis. Sloan reflects that her feelings for Nash are deepening; she believes she can trust him, and she’s happy with how her life is progressing.

Clara considers the next target, a man named Terry who was struck by lightning, who is a chef in Heron’s Rest. Clara dreams that Sloan, whom she is convinced is a witch, threatens her. Clara believes she is about to engage in a battle that could cost her her life. She adds blood to their dinner, she tells Sam, to give them strength and clarity. She doesn’t want to tell Sam what she fears. Instead, she proposes that they take Terry and the witch together.

Sloan continues her work, which is to educate and protect, and enjoys the signs of spring. As she shops for flowers, she spots someone watching her and thinks the woman looks familiar.