Midnight In Belle Fleur: The Witching Hour: Destroyer Witch Chronicles, #2

By Isabelle Hardesty

In a world where magic always comes with a price, Juliette must now pay in this enthralling YA contemporary fantasy about a witch torn between destroyer and healing magic, perfect for fans of Nature of Witches and Labyrinth Lost.

In saving a child's life, Juliette broke The Council's laws. Desperate to put things right, Juliette makes a bargain with a powerful witch. But the deal comes with an unexpected cost: Juliette's magic and her title of Lead Witch. Without Juliette, the Destroyer Witches are poised to overtake The Council…and Belle Fleur. If they succeed, the entire world will be at their cruel mercy.

As the threat grows, and Juliette's destroyer side becomes more powerful, old friendships and new alliances might be the only thing able to protect Juliette and those she loves.

Midnight in Belle Fleur is the second book in the Destroyer Witch Chronicles, a young adult contemporary fantasy series with swoon-worthy friends-to-lovers romance, fast-paced action, and memorable characters.

Praise for Midnight in Belle Fleur:

"Would highly recommend to lovers of fantasy!" —Reviewer

"The author creates a world that draws you in and makes you want to keep reading." —Reviewer

• Language: English
• Publisher: Isabelle Hardesty
• Release date: Apr 22, 2022
• ISBN: 9798201708115

Book preview

MIDNIGHT IN BELLE FLEUR

Isabelle Hardesty

Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

GET A FREE COPY OF JADE’S DESCENT

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Also by Isabelle Hardesty

In the Delacourt Shapeshifter Series:

In the Destroyer Witch Series:

COPYRIGHT

Chapter 1

Juliette tapped her finger on the table three times. She smiled at Victor as she glanced at her phone again. She should be thrilled because everything was perfect, well, almost perfect. The issue was bigger than her getting a new role on a show, and it put Belle Fleur in danger.

She had recently unleashed magic for the regulars of Belle Fleur, and that wasn’t even the worst of it. She frowned, rubbing her finger against the same spot on the same table at Island Magic diner. She always seemed to sit there when she had something big on her mind. The little imperfection reminded her to pay attention to details and know that eventually, she’d be sitting back there with something new on her mind. She doubted anything could top this.

Oh, and a witch rebellion was on the horizon. She swallowed hard and looked at her boyfriend, Victor. She wished she could be present like he was. He always had a way of being calm, even when the crap hit the fan.

She glanced at her aunt, Alma, talking with Renner behind the counter. They were both chatting with diners. She looked over her shoulder and remembered seeing her aunt levitate this morning.

That was weird.

Juliette raised an eyebrow when she remembered she had accomplished some good, too. Not that it wiped out her mistakes.

For this moment, right now, everything was perfect because everyone she cared about was safe and near her. She glanced around the diner and then gazed back into Victor’s eyes.

What am I going to do? She slid her finger along the bump on the table.

I know you’ve got a lot going on. And I know that no matter what I say, it’s yours to deal with. And we both know I’m not here to save you—you don’t need saving.

Juliette smiled.

I am here to remind you not to be so hard on yourself. You defeated Thane. You saved Alec. And now you’re Lead Witch of Belle Fleur. Plus, to top it off, you’ve got this new acting job. That’s amazing.

You’re right. My Lead Witch problems can be on hold for a few more minutes, while I savor my wins. She glanced at the other cast members on her phone and was glad she wasn’t the only Afro-Latino actor in the show.

You deserve it, Juliette, Victor said. And I know Pascal will come in here any minute with some crazy way to remove magic for the regulars. It’s what he does.

Yeah. I hope so. She let out a sigh and glanced over at the little girl, who smiled as sparks danced at the tips of her fingers. Luckily, her parents ignored her as they were engrossed in their conversation. Victor, I wished the spell worked last night, she said, entwining her fingers in his.

I’m not gonna lie. I’m glad that it didn’t. Now, we get to be near each other.

Yeah, but look what I did. She slipped her fingers out of his and then frowned, looking around the room.

She knew this was the calm before the storm. 

True. His smile faded as he glanced around the room. But I’m just going to enjoy this breakfast before we deal with this.

The scent of rosemary filled her nose, and she glanced at the door. Something’s off, Juliette said, leaning to her left to see over Victor.

What do you mean? he asked.

Juliette closed her eyes and said, I smell rosemary. She opened her eyes and craned her neck, looking around the diner. I think it means magic is near.

Yeah—powerful magic, he said, clenching his jaw.

As soon as Victor said his last word, the door to the diner flung wide open.

Juliette and Victor leaped to their feet, hands raised, but before they could do anything more, a witch walked in and swooped her hand, casting a spell that froze everyone.

Hello, my pretty. Boy, do I love saying that, the witch giggled and then wrinkled her nose as she smiled, assessing the room.

You must be Juliette, she said as she pointed, unfreezing Juliette. She wore a black coat that skimmed her knees and a black top and lace skirt. Her long braids were twisted with gold ribbons and cowrie beads.

Juliette pushed her left hand out, shooting a bolt of energy out from her fingertips.

The intruder was knocked down, falling on her back.

The stranger lay on the floor and leaned up on her elbows. Oomph! That was uncalled for. She remained on her back, then sat up, pressing a hand on her lower back. My back, she said, wincing.

Who are you and why are you here? Juliette said, instinctively standing in between the witch and everyone.

Okay, so you’re pretty and like to fight. Nice combo, but you may want to hear me out before you continue attacking me. I’m here to help you, the witch said, rolling to her side and crawling to her knees, all the while moaning. She finally stood up.

I’m sorry, Juliette said, but you can’t come in here and just freeze us like we’re your puppets. She stepped closer, feeling guilty.

The witch deftly swiped her hand up with a swirl of purple smoke laced with shimmering stars, which knocked Juliette off of her feet.

As Juliette jumped to her feet, the jewel that was embedded in her palm pulsed and grew warm. She shook her head. Who are you? Why are you here?

First, don’t judge a book by its cover, the witch said. I’m Fabienne.

Do you have a last name?

Fabienne chuckled, Do you think I need one with an entrance like that? May I? she asked, leaning closer.

May you what? Juliette asked, raising her shoulders. She took a deep breath.

See the gem.

Juliette stepped back but held her hand up for the woman to see.

It’s more beautiful than I thought. Fabienne’s smile widened, and she tapped her chin, as though she were browsing in a high-end jewelry store.

Why are you interested in me or this gem? It’s better that you leave.

I’m not leaving. Fabienne’s voice rang loud in the diner and her gaze rested on Victor. What I want to know right now is who he is and why do you keep looking at him like that? Fabienne asked.

Don’t worry about anyone or anything here. I’m the Lead Witch. Juliette frowned, knowing that she didn’t have to answer this strange witch, who had just blown into the diner like a hurricane. Whoever you are, just leave. We’ve got a lot going on right now, plus a rebellion coming soon. This is not the town you want to vacation in. Try Miami. Juliette pointed to the door.

Oh, you two are sweet on each other. How nice, Fabienne said, clasping her hands and tucking them below her chin, I wish I had time to be a Lead Witch, to be an actor, and have a boyfriend. Now it’s all making sense to me.

Juliette crossed her arms.

Fabienne dropped her hands and laughed. I was Lead Witch for a while until my younger sister recouped from a poisoning. I was a substitute in a way. One thing I realized is that being a Lead Witch is hard work and demands all of a witch’s time. No wonder you screwed things up royally.

I will not stop being myself just because I’m a witch, Juliette said.

They remained silent as they stared at each other.

I did such a fabulous job stepping in for my sister that The Council noticed me. And they’ve found my talent.

Congratulations, now go.

So, here’s the thing, you’re on probation, Fabienne said reaching into her bag and unrolling a parchment paper on the table. She pointed to the word ‘probation’ at the top. It says it right here.

What?

I’ll be ruling Belle Fleur with you until the two moons probationary period is over. I’m your new Co-Lead Witch.

Juliette’s eyebrows shot up. No. It can’t—what if you’re lying? Why should I believe you? What if this is fake?

Pascal will be here soon. Look, I know it’s tough. But it’s two moons, eight weeks. Before you know it, I’m gone, and either you get your territory back fully, or they replace you. Fabienne wove through the statue-like people, plucking french fries from their plates and popping them in her mouth. Mmmm, these are good.

Juliette stood, absorbing everything that had just happened, and watched as Fabienne popped another French fry in her mouth.

And in case you’re wondering, no, it wasn’t me who poisoned my sister. Although, to be honest, she is a pain in the—ask me another question, go on.

I can’t believe this, Juliette said, her mind racing.

No questions? I know. Let it sink in. Fabienne looked around the diner. This place could use a makeover, don’t you think? Maybe black and gold. I am partial to black, as you can tell. She held her lace skirt out and did a half curtsey.

Juliette clenched her hand, hiding her gem, and throwing her shoulders back. She wouldn’t get distracted by her. But how did The Council even find that regulars have magic?

Well, lucky for you, they don’t know. Well, not yet, anyway, she said, surveying the area. She turned back to Juliette.

Then why are you here if they didn’t send you? Juliette demanded, looking around, unable to believe what was happening.

Why Pascal invited me! she said with a wide smile.

Pascal? Juliette said, angry that he had done this without consulting with her first.

He said that he needed my other talents. Besides being Co-Lead Witch, I have, well, let’s just say I know some spells that are outlawed by The Council. So, Pascal thought by hiring me, he could kill two birds with one stone. We will get rid of the magic and keep The Council at bay, while I guide you.

Juliette furrowed her brows as an emotional storm of relief, anger, and guilt hit her.

Pascal rushed into the diner with a gust of wind at his back. The door slammed shut behind him. He shook the leaves and twigs from his robe as he slowed his breathing. The magic of our town is setting mother nature on edge. This can’t continue. He turned the diner’s store sign to Closed. He pulled the shades down on the windows. Let’s make this fast, Fabienne. This town cannot remain magic any longer. And remember, speak nothing of this—ever.

Pascal, what’s going on? Juliette shook her head.

Please forgive me, but I had to take this into my own hands since I am at fault for not training you sufficiently. He released a long breath and said, But now we can set things right, and since Thane has left, we can use this time to plan for his return and set things in order.

Pascal’s face was drawn, bags under his eyes. Juliette, the spell we cast last night didn’t work as we know, but we didn’t realize it would affect mother nature. And The Council will send an emissary here by midnight tonight if we don’t fix things fast. They sensed a disturbance in the magic and were suspicious and inquired if there was a situation that needed fixing.

What can we do? We don’t want them to wipe out Belle Fleur just to protect magic’s secret, Juliette said, looking around the diner. Her gaze fell on Alma, and then Victor.

We all know what happens to towns where magic runs rampant. The Council erases them like markings on an old chalkboard. Gone. Nothing, Fabienne said, clapping her hands loudly.

Juliette’s heart raced, as she realized she had to do whatever was necessary to save her town. Ok, what do we do now?

Basically, I’m here to fix your mess, little one. Do you see that golden glimmer around that girl’s fingers? That’s magic. Not good, Fabienne said as she walked around the diner. She beamed and cooed when she walked closer to Renner. Well, isn’t it a small world?

Pascal frowned and cleared his throat. Please, Fabienne. We must hurry.

Juliette felt an icy chill creep up her spine.

Have no fear, I will fix it all, Fabienne said with a smile.

Juliette walked toward Fabienne. A jumble of emotions tangled within her. She was grateful and frightened this new witch was here. Juliette knew she had to do whatever she could to guarantee everyone’s safety. You’re right. It was my mistake. Let’s just get this over with, please, Juliette said, feeling that there was more to this than she knew.

The sound of fabric rubbing against fabric from Fabienne’s layered skirt and the click of her wooden heeled shoes filled the room.

Fabienne smiled, glancing at Juliette’s gem, and asked, Did that hurt when it joined into your palm?

Uh-yeah, Juliette said, clasping her hands behind her. She didn’t know where this was going but had a feeling she wouldn’t like it. Can we just focus on removing magic from the regulars now?

They all turned toward the rattling windows. Palm trees swayed wildly outside as the wind grew stronger.

Yes, Juliette is right. We must hurry, Fabienne, Pascal said, clearing a table with a swoop of his hands, and setting the items on a separate table nearby.

Before you continue, unfreeze Victor, my aunt, and Renner.

If you insist. Fabienne closed her eyes and waved her hand, releasing Victor, Alma, and Renner from the spell.

What’s Fabienne doing here? Victor asked, jumping from his seat and rushing to Juliette’s side.

This is a bad idea. Was it you, Pascal? Renner asked. He shook his head slowly.

Pascal crossed his arms and said, We must set things right. Ellen and Denkins have been working hard from across the sea trying to help us. This is imperative.

Pascal, you could have gone to any other witch but her, Renner said, protectively holding Alma close to him.

You’re welcome, everyone. I left my home in Barbados, which, might I add, is beautiful at this time of the year—to clean up this mess.

None of the other powerful witches were available. I tried, Pascal said under his breath.

Hey, I might not be a fancy actress like Juliette, but I know how to improvise and tell a good joke or two. Maybe I’m known for being hard to work with, but I always get the job done. Fabienne walked to the kitchen, weaving through the statue-like people, and returned with a bowl. Speaking of cauldrons, I’ll be needing this, she said, slamming a bowl on the table. 

Juliette looked at Pascal and shrugged her shoulders. She whispered, What were you thinking? She’s crazy.

He held his hand up and said, It will be fine. Fabienne has the skills which can remove the curse.

Fabienne smiled at Pascal and said, It is good to see your face again, Pascal. It’s been, what, four decades?

At least, Pascal said with a smile that faded. We’ve got to return these people to their regular lives now.

Okay. Let me get to work here.

Fabienne hummed as she slipped her hands into several pockets along her sleeves and folds of her skirts, producing small vials and a bowl. She clattered them on the table before her and bent forward, wiggling her left leg. She pulled out a purple twig. Fabienne opened each vial, one by one, and shook it over the bowl, mixing the contents.

She closed her eyes and said, Fortis magica obliviscaris in perpetuum. She stirred the mixture clockwise three times and then counterclockwise nine times.

Juliette looked up and stepped back as a pink fog appeared. It swirled up toward the ceiling and then disappeared. She stood with her hands clasped below her chin, watching. Can I help?

No need. Fabienne nodded and grinned when finished, saying, That should do it! She slipped the vials back into her pockets and waited, with her arms on her hips, as though she was expecting applause.

So, how do we know if it worked? Victor asked. Because less than twenty-four hours ago, Juliette and I tried, and it didn’t work.

It was a different circumstance, and I’m a highly skilled witch. Besides, look, the golden glow has vanished from that girl’s fingers. Magic is gone from regulars. They’re idiots, and wouldn’t know what to do with magic, anyway.

Juliette let out a long sigh.

Victor raked his hands through his hair.

Pascal removed his glasses and pinched the bridge of his nose. This was close. This is a good day.

Fabienne turned from Pascal to Renner and said, It’s nice to see you. She batted her eyes at Renner.

Renner clapped his hands together and said, This is over. Fabienne, you have helped the good people of Belle Fleur. Now, please leave. I will pay whatever your fee is. Money is no matter.

My younger sister became Lead Witch, a title that should have gone to me. My older sister, well, let’s just say it’s complicated. And the Council tolerates me. I’m never moving up in that circus. It’s time I made my own path, Fabienne said, growing serious.

Juliette’s young. She’s not to blame for any of your past problems. Come now, Pascal said, rubbing his hands together.

Fabienne turned to Pascal, her eyebrows raised. Pascal, you said, and I quote, ‘Fabienne, we will pay whatever you want. Remove magic from the regulars in Belle Fleur.’ I did. And I will take my payment now. I don’t want money, I want that. Her smile was wide, her eyes darting from the gem in Juliette’s hand to Juliette’s face. She leaned her head to the left, and then the right, as she waited.

You’ll have to get through me first! Victor said, shielding Juliette from Fabienne.

Juliette placed a hand on Victor’s shoulder. I’ve got this. Let me deal with her on my own.

Victor shook his head, stepping off to the side.

Fabienne laughed. Do you want to battle me? Fabienne threw her head back and let out a cackling laugh. Little girl, I was deep in magic when you were a baby. There is no argument with you. I just want what The Council owes to me, she said dryly. I have no desire to fight you. There is something else I’ve always wanted, now that I think about it, she said, with a wide grin plastered on her face. She walked toward Juliette and said, I’ve always wanted to be an actress!

Pascal shook his head and slumped in the nearest chair, obviously relieved that they’d all avoided a witch battle. Thank goodness. All this is over.

No, it’s not, Juliette said, shaking her head vehemently. I can’t risk everything I’ve worked so hard to achieve to let her ruin my acting career. I get that I have no choice about being a Lead Witch. And I guess, about the gem in my hand.

You’ll get your gem back as soon as the eight weeks are over.

No. Look, I’m happy that you fixed the magical regulars problem—but my gem is staying here with me.

It was a big problem, Fabienne said.

I get it. I screwed up royally. There has to be something else.

Fabienne ignored them as she held her skirt up and pranced around the room, I’m going to be on television, finally. She twirled and shot rays of golden light from her open palms. Little flecks of gold cascaded around her, and then shimmered, disappearing.

Fabienne’s smile faded, and she stormed to Juliette. Don’t make me yank this jewel out of your hand.

I’d like to see you try it, Juliette said. She stood tall, ready for battle.

Pascal’s hands flew up. Now, now, no reason to jump to that. Let’s come to a reasonable understanding before everyone wakes up.

Juliette looked from Fabienne to Pascal. Her eyes danced over the all-black attire, cliché for a witch, but stylish. Time had grayed Fabienne’s hair at the temples.

Don’t pay my grays any mind. You saw that I have the heart of a fighter. I’ll learn every line I get. I’ve wanted this for so long, Juliette. She passed a hand over her temple and the gray hairs turned to jet black. I’m ready to begin when you give me your answer."

She felt bad that Fabienne thought it was about age. It’s not my production. I am just an actor on the show.

Well, aren’t you important because of that viral video? I’d do anything to be on a show.

Renner watched the exchange and then said, Juliette, may I have a word? Renner asked, clasping his hands behind his back with a smile plastered on his face.

Sure, what’s the creepy smile about? Juliette whispered behind the soda fountain machine.

It is not creepy. I just did not want to attract her attention.

Okay, Juliette said, knowing she’d have to school him on the art of a placid smile at a later date. So, what’s up?

Fabienne and I have—well—a history. We were, he paused and then finally said, married once.

I should have known. She kept swooning over you when you were all frozen. Juliette shook her head. I hope you tell my aunt. She’s crazy about you.

I will, as I am in love with your aunt. But this moment is not about that. I know Fabienne very well and do not trust her. She loves deals, and she lies. She has the soul of a pirate. It was captivating when I was young and foolish, but now I know what true love is, Renner said, looking at Alma.

So, if Fabienne likes deals, what if I give her one?

What are you proposing?

What if it could shorten the two-month probationary period to one month? Although she said The Council said it was two months, she said, her shoulders slumping. So, that wouldn’t work. Juliette sighed.

Actually, it might work. If you craft your offer in a manner in which Fabienne feels like she is getting the best part of the deal, she cannot resist. In our first year of marriage, she purchased so many items she believed she had received a great deal on. We had to purchase a home near us to fit everything. It was a circus.

If she accepts, then she can leave faster, and I can regain my powers before Thane returns.

Precisely, Renner said with a nod.

The last gust of wind blew away the dark clouds and the rays of the morning sun glowed.

Look at Mother Nature, so happy now that balance is restored in the magical realm. Isn’t magic grand? Well, in the right hands, that is. Fabienne pulled a chair out and sat down.

We are all glad you could fix everything, Fabienne, Pascal said.

All this magic makes a girl tired. Let’s wrap up, shall we? Fabienne said, snapping her fingers.

Juliette knew it only made sense