Witchcraft for Wayward Girls

Neva, a pregnant teenager, sits in the car with her father, who remains silent and angry as they drive through May 1970. The tension between them is palpable, and Neva, terrified and confused, tries to understand why they are in Florida, a place where they have no known connections. Her father's cold response and the revelation that he is taking her to a 'Home' for wayward girls intensify her fear and desperation.

As they continue driving, Neva reflects on the series of events that led to her current situation. She recounts her attempts to terminate her pregnancy, the reactions of her family, and the isolation she faced at Aunt Peggy's house. Her thoughts are interrupted by the physical discomfort of the long drive, particularly her need to use the bathroom. Despite her father's indifference, she manages to convince him to stop at a gas station, where he reluctantly gives her his wedding ring to wear as a pretense of being married.

At the gas station, Neva feels the judgmental stares of strangers, reinforcing her sense of shame and isolation. The chapter ends with Neva walking to the restroom, the weight of her father's words and the societal stigma heavy on her mind, and a clear sense that her life has irrevocably changed.

Neva and her father arrive at the Wellwood House, a dilapidated and ominous Home for Unwed Mothers. The place exudes an eerie atmosphere, deepening Neva's fear and despair. Inside, they meet Mrs. Deckle and Miss Wellwood, who confirm that Neva will indeed be staying there. Despite Neva's desperate pleas, her father leaves without properly saying goodbye, leaving her feeling abandoned and alone.

Hazel and Rose introduce Neva to the other residents. The girls, including the outspoken Rose and the bookish Hazel, warn Neva about the strict rules and the importance of using pseudonyms. Neva meets several other pregnant girls, each with their own unique personality and story, such as the dramatic Myrtle and the prim Briony. As Neva navigates her new surroundings, the weight of her isolation and the harsh realities of the Home become increasingly apparent.

Neva is led to Miss Wellwood's office, where the air is thick with the cold, unyielding presence of Miss Wellwood. The strict and unforgiving demeanor of Miss Wellwood sets the tone for Neva's stay at the Wellwood House. Miss Wellwood outlines the rules and expectations, emphasizing the importance of cooperation and the use of pseudonyms to protect the girls' privacy. Neva is assigned the name 'Fern' and told she is from Baltimore, a detail that sends a thrill through her as it offers a chance to reinvent herself.

Miss Wellwood continues to lecture Neva, detailing the daily routines and the severe consequences of disobedience. She emphasizes the religious and moral justification for the girls' presence, likening Neva's situation to a 'sin' and a 'curse.' Overwhelmed and desperate to return to her old life, Neva agrees to comply with all the rules. After the meeting, Mrs. Deckle, who shows no interest in Neva, directs her to her room without further assistance.

Neva drags her suitcase to her room, where the vibrant and chaotic atmosphere of the other girls contrasts sharply with her fear. The oppressive heat and lack of ventilation add to her distress. She eventually manages to open the window with help from Rose, a resident who warns her about the lies and deceit prevalent in the Home.

The girls line up for dinner in alphabetical order, and Fern is placed between Daisy and Flora. The dining room is grand but oppressive, with a chandelier, a birdcage, and a fireplace adorned with a brass peacock. Fern notices the stark differences among the girls, from their varying stages of pregnancy to their personalities, and she is struck by the presence of a young girl named Holly, who has a prominent birthmark and remains silent. During the meal, Miss Wellwood leads a prayer, and Fern observes the strict hierarchy and rules, such as the use of pleasantries and the prohibition of certain topics like astrology.

After the prayer, Fern is still without a plate until Hagar, the stern cook, brings her a serving of food. Dr. Vincent enters and announces a ban on salt due to recent health issues, causing frustration among the girls. Fern feels increasingly out of place, especially after a conversation about television actors, which ends awkwardly. Following dinner, the girls gather in the Congregation Room to watch TV, and Fern tries to fit in by discussing a TV show, but her efforts are met with confusion and silence.

Later, in her room, Fern introduces herself to Holly, who remains silent and clutches a stuffed dog. Rose, her roommate, passes gas repeatedly, much to Fern's annoyance and distress. Fern feels isolated and desperate, crying as she realizes how much her life has changed and how difficult it is to adapt to the rigid and unforgiving environment of the Wellwood House.

Fern wakes up to the sound of a bell, the reality of her situation at the Wellwood House sinking in. She struggles with the constant need to urinate and the oppressive routine of the Home. During breakfast, she learns that Hazel is being taken to the hospital to give birth and is given a set of pills without explanation. Fern feels a growing sense of isolation and anxiety as Hazel, the only girl she knows, is taken away.

Nurse Kent leads Fern to the clinic for a medical check-up. Initially relieved by Nurse Kent’s reassurance that modern medicine can alleviate the pain of childbirth, Fern’s anxiety spikes during the examination by Dr. Vincent. His invasive and demeaning methods leave her feeling violated and helpless, the experience leaving her with a lingering sense of dirtiness and the urgent need for a cleansing shower.

Fern is then taken to Miss Keller, the social worker, who introduces herself as Diane and offers a more compassionate approach. Diane explains the concept of 'surrender,' framing the act of giving up her baby for adoption as a gift to another couple and a chance for Fern to start over. Torn between her desire to escape the Wellwood House and the weight of the decision, Fern ultimately signs the adoption papers, feeling both relieved and burdened by her choice.

Fern's days at the Wellwood House blend into a relentless routine, each morning marked by the shrill ring of the bell and the oppressive schedule that follows. The girls are treated as cogs in a machine, their lives structured around cleaning, cooking, and lectures on personal grooming and the inevitability of surrendering their babies. Fern finds the regimen exhausting and the food monotonous, yet she tries to adapt, even attempting to help Holly, a silent and mentally challenged girl, with basic hygiene, though her efforts end in failure.

Afternoons are spent in various activities, from sewing layettes to playing card games, with conversations ranging from the mundane to the philosophical. Rose, with her radical views and determination to keep her baby, stands out. Her vision of a simple, self-sufficient life with her daughter, Blossom, captivates the other girls, momentarily making them feel like mothers and challenging the notion that they are incapable of raising their children.

Fern reflects on the isolation from the outside world, noting how newspapers and news are kept from them, and how the passage of time is marked by the repetitive nature of their daily tasks. She is acutely aware of the physical changes in her body and the constant need to urinate, which disrupts her sleep and adds to her fatigue. Despite the monotony, Fern clings to the hope of eventually returning home, counting down the days until her release.

In the Wellwood House, Dr. Vincent delivers a brief and dismissive lecture about childbirth, assuring the girls that it is not their concern. Tansy recounts a graphic story about her mother's painful delivery, which starkly contrasts with Dr. Vincent's assurances. Fern seeks comfort from Diane, who reassures her that modern medicine will make the process easy, but Fern remains skeptical.

Tensions rise when Myrtle accuses someone of stealing her dietary supplements, leading to a confrontation with Rose. Rose deftly uses a philosophical argument to deflect the accusation, which results in laughter from the other girls. Feeling the strain, Fern retreats to the Smoke Shack, where she unexpectedly encounters Holly, who is eating stolen candy. They form a tentative bond, and Holly takes Rose's cigarettes and lighter in exchange for sharing the candy.

Later that night, Fern is awakened by the need to use the bathroom. Upon entering, she discovers Myrtle in a horrific state of labor, bleeding profusely and in extreme pain. Fern's shock and terror are compounded by the severity of Myrtle's condition, which contradicts the reassuring lies she has been told. After Nurse Kent and an ambulance arrive, Myrtle is taken away, and the next morning, Miss Wellwood addresses the girls, blaming Myrtle for her own suffering and emphasizing the importance of following the Home's rules.

Fern, deeply shaken by the night's events, realizes that the staff has downplayed the risks of childbirth. She feels a growing sense of isolation and betrayal, understanding that they are completely alone in their struggles and that the only support they have is from each other.

On a Sunday morning, Miss Wellwood leads the girls in a prayer and a lecture, while Fern grimaces at the foul-tasting iron supplement prescribed by Dr. Vincent. Despite her initial refusal, Rose steps in and drinks the supplement for Fern, showing solidarity and support. Later, the girls are unsettled by Miss Wellwood's unusual presence in the Home after dinner, leading to speculation and unease.

The tension escalates when a new girl, Zinnia, arrives late at night with her mother. Zinnia, who is African American, is visibly uncomfortable and immediately falls ill due to the strong smell of Pine-Sol. Miss Wellwood assigns Zinnia to the attic room, sparking a confrontation with Rose, who argues against the segregation. Rose offers to share her room with Zinnia, but Miss Wellwood insists that Zinnia will share a room with Fern and Holly. Fern and Holly clean up Zinnia's vomit, and upon returning to their room, they find Zinnia unpacking, revealing her affluent background and the stark contrast between her and the other girls.

Zinnia experiences severe morning sickness and expresses her fears about the Home, mentioning that the only book she has read about pregnancy is 'Rosemary’s Baby.' Fern relates to Zinnia’s reference, creating a small connection between them. Zinnia’s arrival and her immediate struggles highlight the oppressive and isolating nature of the Wellwood House, as well as the racial tensions and inequalities present.

Fern and Zinnia continue to battle their respective ailments, with Zinnia frequently vomiting and Fern constantly needing to use the bathroom. Despite these challenges, the girls form a bond, and Fern, Zinnia, and Holly plan to help each other get books from the upcoming bookmobile visit. Rose initially resists joining their plan but eventually agrees, adding her support to the group. The anticipation of the bookmobile brings a sense of excitement and normalcy to their lives, breaking the monotony of the Wellwood House.

When the bookmobile finally arrives, Fern and the others rush to select books. However, Mrs. Deckle rejects the first set of books chosen by Miss Parcae, the librarian, deeming them inappropriate. With limited time and options, Miss Parcae suggests alternative books, but Fern, having read them all before, feels disappointed. In a moment of vulnerability, Fern asks Miss Parcae for nonfiction books about childbirth, only to be told that such books are not available. Miss Parcae, however, surprises Fern by adjusting the baby in her womb, relieving her urgent need to urinate and offering her a hidden, potentially informative book about women and childbirth.

Fern, intrigued and grateful, tucks the book away and retreats to the powder room to read the first few pages. The words on the page seem to offer the guidance and knowledge she desperately seeks, providing a glimmer of hope and empowerment amidst the oppressive environment of the Wellwood House.

Still reeling from the disappointment at the bookmobile, Fern gathers Rose, Zinnia, and Holly in the attic to reveal a hidden book, 'How to Be a Groovy Witch.' She believes the book can help Zinnia with her severe morning sickness. Despite initial skepticism, especially from Zinnia and Rose, Fern's enthusiasm and the promise of a solution win them over. They prepare for a spell called 'Turnabout,' which involves various ingredients and a ritualistic chant.

Three days later, the girls perform the spell in the attic, focusing their energy on transferring Zinnia's morning sickness to Dr. Vincent. The egg used in the spell turns black, suggesting the spell's effectiveness. They complete the ritual by placing a sachet containing the egg and other ingredients, along with Dr. Vincent's hair, behind his desk drawer.

The next day, Fern and Holly volunteer to clean the Barn, allowing Fern to monitor the time while waiting for the spell to take effect. During her clinic visit, Fern stalls to ensure the timing is right. Dr. Vincent, who is usually composed, begins to show signs of illness, matching the symptoms Zinnia typically experiences. Fern watches in triumph as Dr. Vincent is overtaken by uncontrollable vomiting, validating the success of their witchcraft.

Back in their bedroom, Fern excitedly recounts the precise times Dr. Vincent fell ill, aligning perfectly with the moments they performed the Turnabout spell. Zinnia, who experienced no side effects, is suddenly overwhelmed with hunger and bursts into laughter, while the others are both amazed and cautious about the implications of their successful witchcraft. The realization that they possess genuine magical abilities shifts their perspective, and they begin to consider the potential power they wield.

Rose, seizing the moment, suggests using their newfound powers to challenge the oppressive system that has confined them. She proposes a revolution, urging the girls to decide whether they want to continue their mundane lives or fight back. After a brief discussion, they agree to explore the book further, hoping to find more practical and powerful spells. However, they quickly realize that most of the spells are either incomprehensible or seem trivial, leading to a mix of frustration and skepticism.

Despite the initial excitement, the girls face the reality that understanding and wielding true witchcraft may be more complex than they anticipated. Their confidence falters, and a sense of uncertainty and doubt creeps in. Just as they are contemplating their next move, Hagar bangs on the door, demanding that they get to work in the kitchen.

Under the relentless sun, the girls toil through Laundry Day at the Wellwood House, their spirits dampened by the heat and the constant buzz of insects. Fern, particularly, struggles but clings to the idea of a refreshing swim to ease her discomfort. Hagar, however, sternly warns them against the dangers of the nearby river, mentioning ghosts, hippies, and glass eels. Despite the ominous warnings, the thought of swimming remains a tantalizing escape for Fern.

Later that evening, Fern, Zinnia, and Holly retreat to their room, where Fern’s frustration with the complex witchcraft book grows. As the night deepens, a large black dog materializes in their room, and Holly, intrigued, follows it out of the Home. Concerned, Fern and Zinnia give chase, with Rose joining them. They track the dog through the dense woods, emerging onto a vast, moonlit lawn that leads to a wide, shimmering river.

Undeterred by the earlier warnings, Rose strips off her shirt and wades into the river, the water enveloping her in a serene and mysterious embrace. Fern, Zinnia, and Holly stand on the bank, captivated by the surreal scene, the night air thick with the promise of transformation.

Still reeling from the mysterious dog's appearance and the late-night chase through the woods, Fern, Zinnia, and Holly join Rose for a midnight swim in the river. The cool water and moonlit sky bring a sense of freedom and camaraderie. Fern and Zinnia bond as they watch Rose and Holly play, and Zinnia shares her story about her relationship with Paul and the traumatic experience with her mother. Rose also opens up, revealing her betrayal by Carlton Sinclair III and her plans to confront him after the birth of her baby, Blossom.

Their moment of connection is interrupted by the sudden appearance of Miss Parcae, the librarian, who reveals her knowledge of their use of the witchcraft book. Miss Parcae offers to help them understand the book in exchange for their loyalty and obedience, but Rose is skeptical and dismissive. The tension escalates when Holly, who has been quiet, suddenly declares that she is having God’s baby and cannot leave. The girls are forced to confront the reality of their situation and the potential consequences of their actions.

Fern, Zinnia, and Holly sit on the riverbank, where Holly reveals that she is not having God’s baby but has been sexually abused by The Reverend Jerry, a powerful figure in her community. Holly explains that her parents and The Reverend Jerry have covered up her abuse, and she is afraid to return home. Determined to help Holly, Fern calls out to Miss Parcae, who offers to teach them witchcraft in exchange for their loyalty and obedience.

The girls gather sticks and create a circle in the dirt, setting up a small fire. Miss Parcae instructs them to undress and perform a ritual, reading the Lord’s Prayer backward in pig Latin while walking counterclockwise. Miss Parcae invokes ancient goddesses and explains the concept of the Witch’s Sixpence, a blood price for powerful workings. Each girl, starting with Fern, kneels before Miss Parcae, renounces the world of man, and pledges loyalty to her, signing her book with their blood. Zinnia and Rose participate with reservations, while Holly, though terrified, also pledges her loyalty.

After the ritual, Miss Parcae tells them to read the book and practice their Craft to fulfill their heart’s desires. She leaves them to walk back to the Wellwood House, instructing them to form a line and close their eyes, but the girls are skeptical and disappointed. They discuss their wishes, with Fern reaffirming her commitment to ensuring Holly does not have to return home.

Holly, still shaken from the previous night's ritual, climbs into bed with Fern. The next morning, Mrs. Deckle's bell wakes the girls, and Fern notices a black, infected cut on her thumb. During breakfast, the girls are served hamburger pancakes, but Fern's mind is elsewhere, her thoughts consumed by Holly's trauma and the ritual's consequences. Miss Wellwood's morning meditation quickly turns into an interrogation, as she accuses someone of sneaking out the previous night and threatens to lock the doors at night. Fern and Zinnia, along with Holly and a few others, are not called for questioning and proceed to Bible study.

After Bible study, Fern and Zinnia head to Rose's attic room. Rose reveals that Miss Wellwood suspects her but hasn't found concrete evidence. Rose is frustrated with the witchcraft book, feeling it's a fraud, and insists they need a real plan to help Holly. Zinnia argues that they should focus on practical solutions rather than relying on the book. Fern notices something peculiar about the cover of 'How to Be a Groovy Witch,' realizing the model resembles Miss Parcae. When they examine the book, they discover a new glossary entry that wasn't there before, adding to their suspicion.

Zinnia, deeply unsettled by the book's changes, refuses to be part of any further witchcraft, fearing the consequences. She leaves the room, and Rose, angry and desperate, threatens to expose Zinnia for sneaking out. Fern finds Zinnia in the music room, where Zinnia plays a silent tune on the broken piano, expressing her belief that the book is dangerous and that they should stay away from it. Despite Fern's attempts to persuade her otherwise, Zinnia remains firm in her decision.

Struggling with her decision to continue with the witchcraft, Fern is torn between her desire to return to her normal life and her commitment to help Holly. She feels a deep sense of responsibility and guilt, especially after reflecting on Holly's traumatic past and the abuse she suffered at the hands of Reverend Jerry. Fern's resolve strengthens as she realizes that they are the only ones who can help Holly, and she decides to delve deeper into the witchcraft book, despite the risks.

On the hottest day of the year, the tension at the Wellwood House reaches a boiling point when Rose refuses to go to the hospital early, suspecting that the staff wants to induce labor to avoid disrupting their holiday plans. The confrontation escalates as Dr. Vincent, Miss Wellwood, and Diane try to force Rose to comply, leading to a heated argument. Rose's defiance angers Diane, who reveals sensitive information about Rose's past, pushing Rose to the brink. The situation culminates in Rose's water breaking, and she is forcibly sedated and taken to the hospital.

Fern, witnessing the entire scene, is left shaken and more determined than ever to find a way to help Holly. She continues to seek guidance from Miss Parcae, who sends a message through her dog, Decima, indicating that she will help the girls but is currently under surveillance. Fern and Rose, despite their differences, are united in their belief that witchcraft is their best chance to save Holly.

Following the intense confrontation at the Wellwood House, the girls are preoccupied with thoughts of Rose and her newborn, Blossom. They discuss Rose's resilience and the implications of her actions, drawing parallels to the protesters at the Lincoln Memorial. On the Fourth of July, the girls attend the fireworks, feeling alienated in the patriotic atmosphere, and worry about Rose's well-being at the hospital.

On Tuesday, Iris notices Nurse Kent returning to the Barn, but Rose is conspicuously absent, sparking rumors about Blossom's fate. Determined to uncover the truth, Fern, Zinnia, and Holly decide to sneak into the Barn using a key Holly had stolen from Nurse Kent. In a dimly lit, cool room, they find Rose, her face etched with despair. She reveals that she has signed away Blossom to adoption, overwhelmed by pressure and fear of institutional confinement. Rose's anguish and self-loathing are evident, and she confesses that the system is too formidable to challenge.

Fern, driven by a desperate need to help, suggests using the witchcraft book to reclaim Blossom, but Rose is skeptical of their chances. Instead, Rose resolves to seek revenge. She implores Fern to assist her in finding Miss Parcae, the witch, to exact her vengeance. Guided by Decima, they venture into the woods, where they encounter a group of people gathered around a campfire. One of them, holding a rifle, demands to know their purpose.

Guided by Decima, Fern and Rose arrive at a secluded campsite where a group of women, including Miss Parcae, are gathered. The initial tension eases as they are warmly welcomed by the group, and they learn that these women are witches. Rose, driven by her desire for revenge against those who took her baby, demands a powerful spell from Miss Parcae, who cautions her about the complexities of power and the consequences of revenge.

Miss Parcae, recognizing the different paths Fern and Rose are on, sends Fern to the fire, where she meets the other witches and hears their stories of persecution and resilience. Fern is particularly moved by Mags, an elderly woman who carries the memories of her ancestors and is haunted by a tragic past. The witches share their experiences and the strength they draw from their lineage, while Fern grapples with the decision to fully embrace the witchcraft or return to her old life.

Rose returns from her private conversation with Miss Parcae, looking glum but determined. The chapter ends with Little Robin preparing to escort Rose and Fern back to the Wellwood House, leaving Fern with a deeper understanding of the witches' world and the weight of the choices ahead.

Driven by her anger, Rose leads Fern and Holly to the river to perform a powerful curse ritual. Using Holly’s key to access the Barn, they prepare the ritual site with a circle, an altar, and the necessary tools. Rose, invoking the Triple-Faced Goddess and Hecate, sacrifices her fingernails to mark the poppet with her will. As the ritual progresses, the girls dance and chant, feeling a surge of power and a connection to the natural world. Fern experiences a moment of levitation, feeling a profound connection to the sky and the cosmos. The ritual ends with the girls exhausted and transformed, the poppet reduced to ash, and a sense that something significant has shifted.

The next morning, Rose, still seething, apologizes to Miss Wellwood and poisons her coffee with the ashes from the poppet, following instructions from Miss Parcae. Fern and Holly, still reeling from the night’s events, struggle to maintain their composure and avoid detection. The chapter ends with the girls feeling a deep sense of change and the impending consequences of their actions.

Rose is taken home by her parents, dressed neatly and looking like any ordinary girl. Fern, Holly, and Zinnia watch as Rose’s parents, eager to leave, greet Miss Wellwood and thank her for her services. Rose whispers a final message to Fern, urging her to make Miss Wellwood pay, before leaving with her parents. Deeply affected by Rose’s departure, Fern seeks out Jasmine to perform a divination ritual, confirming that she is carrying a boy.

The days at the Wellwood House are suffocating under the relentless July heat, the oppressive conditions exacerbating the girls’ growing discomfort. Fern is torn between her promise to Rose and her fear of the consequences of poisoning Miss Wellwood. She confides in Zinnia, who strongly advises against it, but Fern remains conflicted. As the thirteenth day approaches, the tension builds, and Fern must decide whether to follow through with the spell.

On the twenty-second, Fern, hiding the powder in her sock, takes Miss Wellwood her coffee, successfully poisoning it without detection. The next day, Miss Wellwood’s behavior becomes erratic, and she demands the tuna be thrown out, accusing it of being spoiled. Mrs. Deckle takes over, and the girls speculate about Miss Wellwood’s condition, with Fern feeling a mix of guilt and determination. The chapter ends with Fern questioning her actions and her identity as a witch, feeling the need to talk to Miss Parcae for guidance.

Fern anxiously waits for the bookmobile on Monday, her mind racing with thoughts of the spell Rose performed on Miss Wellwood. When the bookmobile finally arrives, she boards it to find Miss Parcae looking frail and unwell, a stark contrast to her usual vibrant self. Fern inquires about the spell, and Miss Parcae reassures her that Rose merely showed Miss Wellwood what it was like to be her, and that Miss Wellwood will not die.

During their conversation, Miss Parcae reveals that she is dying of liver cancer and that the book has been passed to many girls, but Fern is the first to truly engage with it. Miss Parcae speaks about the possibility of Fern joining the coven, describing their secretive and nomadic lifestyle. She explains that they are preparing for a future Burning Time and need strong, committed women. Fern, torn between her desire to return home and her concern for Holly, asks if Holly can join the coven. Miss Parcae agrees under the condition that Holly demonstrates her strength through a working.

Determined to help Holly, Fern suggests that Holly break the heat and make it rain to prove her strength. Later, Fern tells Zinnia about the opportunity for Holly, but Zinnia is skeptical and accuses Fern of lying about completing the spell on Miss Wellwood. Zinnia’s distrust and frustration deepen, creating tension between the two friends.

Fern visits Dr. Vincent for a routine check-up and learns she is on a two-week warning, with her delivery date set for August 14th. The news leaves her feeling overwhelmed and anxious, as she contemplates the impending arrival of her baby and the subsequent events involving Holly and Reverend Jerry. Meanwhile, Hagar, the cook at the Wellwood House, is troubled by a series of disturbing dreams and Miss Wellwood's erratic behavior, leading her to visit Miss Wellwood's home late at night.

Upon arriving, Hagar discovers Miss Wellwood in a critical condition, her stomach swollen and in obvious pain. Despite Miss Wellwood's initial resistance, Hagar and her sister Miriam, a midwife, insist on helping. As the night progresses, Miss Wellwood's condition worsens, and it becomes clear that she is not just sick but is actually in labor. The situation is abnormal, and the entity inside Miss Wellwood is described as unnatural and malevolent, causing intense and horrifying pain. Hagar and Miriam work tirelessly to assist Miss Wellwood, but the birth is a nightmarish ordeal, filled with grotesque imagery and a sense of impending doom.

Throughout the labor, Miss Wellwood experiences vivid flashbacks of her past traumas, including her father's abuse, her own unwanted pregnancy, and the loss of her child. These memories exacerbate her suffering, and the birth itself is depicted as a violent and demonic event. The entity is described as a nest of bone-white eels, which are subsequently killed and disposed of. The chapter ends with Miss Wellwood in a state of profound grief and trauma, her life forever altered by the unnatural birth.

Fern and Holly, driven by their desire to prove Holly's strength to Miss Parcae, sneak out of the Wellwood House late at night. They carry their shoes and a pillowcase filled with supplies, but Zinnia, skeptical of their plan, refuses to join them. As they venture into the woods, a swarm of blackflies attacks them, forcing the girls to run until they reach the river, where the blackflies finally disperse.

Once at the river, they set up their ritual site, greeting the elements and performing the required steps, which include drawing blood and stirring water. Despite the physical toll of the ritual, they persist, hoping to summon a storm. However, after completing the ritual, no rain comes, and Holly becomes frustrated and upset, feeling that their efforts were in vain. Fern, recalling the book's instruction that greater pain is required for greater workings, suggests Holly cut off the tip of her tongue to increase the spell's power.

Just as Holly is about to cut her tongue, Hagar, the cook, intervenes, chasing away Decima, Miss Parcae's dog, and confronting the girls. Hagar orders them to put out the fire, clean themselves up, and meet her in the kitchen to explain their actions. The chapter ends with the girls complying, knowing they have some serious explaining to do.

Still reeling from the failure of their rain spell, Fern and Holly are caught off guard when Hagar confronts them about their witchcraft activities. Hagar, stern and exhausted, warns them of the dangers and consequences of their actions, particularly the harm they have inflicted on Miss Wellwood, who is now in critical condition. Despite their attempts to lie, Hagar sees through their deception and demands the truth. Fern, Holly, and Zinnia are forced to confess their involvement with Miss Parcae and the witchcraft book. In a fit of anger and concern, Hagar destroys the book and orders the girls to bury the remnants of their unfinished spell to prevent further harm. The girls comply, and Hagar emphasizes the gravity of their actions and the need to cease their witchcraft.

Fern retreats to Rose’s attic room, overwhelmed by guilt and the weight of their failures. Zinnia and Holly find her there, and Zinnia takes charge, asserting that Hagar’s intervention was beneficial. She convinces Fern and Holly to confront Miss Parcae the next day and claim they lost the book, effectively ending their involvement with witchcraft. Fern, feeling a renewed sense of direction, agrees to follow Zinnia’s lead.

Still reeling from Hagar's stern warning and the destruction of the witchcraft book, Fern, Zinnia, and Holly decide to confront Miss Parcae at the bookmobile. Miss Parcae, initially calm, becomes furious upon learning that Hagar burned the book. She demands that Fern take her place as the next in the line of Hecate, threatening severe consequences if Fern breaks her vow. Overwhelmed and unwilling to sacrifice her identity, Fern refuses. The girls flee the bookmobile, determined to find a way to protect themselves. They turn to Hagar for help, and she and her sister Miriam take swift action, burying silverware in the corners of the yard and nailing horseshoes above the doors to ward off Miss Parcae and her coven. Despite these protective measures, the girls remain uneasy, seeing witches perched in the trees, watching the Home. Decima, Miss Parcae’s dog, sits at the edge of the yard, staring up at the Home but not crossing the silver barrier. The girls spend a tense night, huddled together, listening to the wind and the creaking of the house, uncertain of their safety and the future.

Fern, Holly, and Zinnia remain vigilant, their eyes scanning the trees for any sign of the witches, despite Hagar's assurances that the silver barriers are holding. Fern's mind is a whirlwind of fear and guilt, haunted by her promise to Miss Parcae and the potential consequences of breaking it. The girls are still on edge, the memory of the night's events lingering heavily in the air.

On a sweltering Saturday, the oppressive heat and the girls' low morale make Laundry Day a grueling task. The air is thick with tension, but the arrival of dark clouds brings a glimmer of hope. As the storm approaches, the atmosphere shifts, and the girls begin to feel a sense of relief. However, the storm brings an unexpected and terrifying phenomenon: a shower of rocks and stones rains down, injuring several girls and causing widespread panic.

Hagar and Miriam, along with the other girls, scramble to protect everyone from the hail of stones. Fern, Zinnia, and Holly manage to take shelter in the Smoke Shack, but the relentless assault of rocks causes chaos and injuries. Fern, overwhelmed by guilt and fear, begs for the storm to stop, and it eventually does. The aftermath leaves the Home in disarray, with many girls requiring medical attention.

Miss Wellwood returns, accompanied by Hagar and the police, who investigate the damage. Miss Wellwood attributes the incident to hooligans and hippies, but the girls know the truth. The Home is searched, and personal items are confiscated, leading to a tense and punitive assembly. Fern and Zinnia, desperate for answers, seek out Hagar, who is exhausted and uncertain about what to do next.

Fern and the other girls are on edge as they prepare for another night, fearing an attack from Miss Parcae and her coven. Hagar reinforces the Home's defenses by pouring salt lines across the floors, assuring the girls that nothing unnatural can cross the threshold. Despite Hagar's reassurances, Fern is convinced that Miss Parcae will find a way to enter the Home, especially after the recent stone shower incident, which demonstrated the coven's reach even beyond the protective barriers.

As night falls, the girls gather in the Congregation Room, trying to distract themselves with TV. Fern, however, is restless and paces, her anxiety mounting. The tension escalates when a series of mysterious knocks and bangs reverberate through the house, coming from multiple directions. The girls, including Ginger and Jasmine, are terrified, and Nurse Kent, armed with a pistol, takes charge, leading Fern to the phone to call for help. However, the phone line is dead, and the knocking continues, surrounding the house and intensifying the girls' fear.

Driven by desperation, Fern opens the front door, but the porch is empty. Nurse Kent, after a brief search, confirms that no one is outside. The police and Mrs. Deckle arrive, and the house is secured, but the girls remain on edge, knowing that Miss Parcae is still a threat. Hagar, the next morning, provides the girls with protective amulets to wear, warning them to keep them hidden from Miss Wellwood. Despite Hagar's efforts, Fern feels the weight of the impending danger, especially as her delivery date approaches.

Sealed off from the world, the Wellwood House is a fortress of plywood and salt, its windows boarded up, creating an airless and dark environment. The girls are on high alert, especially Fern, who is convinced that Miss Parcae is just outside, waiting to come in and erase her identity. Holly, now on two-week warning, stays close to Fern, while Miss Wellwood delivers stern lectures about the girls’ turn to witchcraft and superstition.

One night, Violet claims to have seen Miss Wellwood talking to her father’s portrait, apologizing and crying. The girls, already on edge, are further unsettled. Fern, unable to sleep, hears a mysterious sound and, with Zinnia and Holly, discovers Violet sneaking around with a cone of salt. They confront Violet, who admits to stealing the salt from the protective lines laid by Hagar. Concerned, the girls decide to replace the salt, but Fern’s body begins to betray her with the onset of labor contractions.

Fern’s labor begins earlier than expected, and she is in intense pain. Zinnia and Holly help her, but their efforts are interrupted by Miss Parcae’s appearance. Miss Parcae, looking calm and composed, walks through the house, searching for the girls. Fern, in the throes of labor, is held back by Zinnia, who tries to keep her hidden. Miss Parcae, unable to find them, is distracted by Nurse Kent’s arrival, and the girls manage to escape to the parlor.

Nurse Kent arrives and helps Fern, who is now in full labor, into a taxi to go to the hospital. Fern, in immense pain and fear, clings to Zinnia, who reassures her with words of love and support. The chapter ends with Fern being taken to the hospital, marking the beginning of a pivotal and challenging phase in her life.

Fern's labor begins as she is rushed to the hospital, the stark contrast between the sealed-off Wellwood House and the bright, bustling hospital environment overwhelming her senses. The hospital staff, including a stern nurse, treat Fern with a mixture of impatience and clinical detachment, performing invasive procedures that leave her feeling violated and frightened. Clutching the protective amulet given to her by Hagar and Miriam, Fern seeks solace in the midst of her pain and fear.

During the labor process, Fern experiences a hallucination where Miss Parcae appears, offering to relieve her pain in exchange for honoring her promise. Fern resists, shouting 'NO!' and is snapped back to reality by the hospital staff. The doctor and nurse continue their procedures, and Fern is eventually given anesthesia, losing consciousness as her baby is delivered. The chapter ends with the doctor and nurses completing the post-delivery procedures, and Fern is taken to recovery, while her baby is separated and taken to the nursery.

Disoriented and in pain, Fern wakes up in the hospital to find her baby is gone. Desperate to see her child, she is eventually allowed to hold her daughter, a girl, for the first time. Overwhelmed by the love she feels for her daughter, Fern begins to question her decision to give her up for adoption, despite Diane's warnings about the financial and social consequences of keeping the baby. Diane explains that if Fern decides to keep her baby, she will have to pay a significant hospital bill and face the disapproval of her family and society. Fern is torn between her love for her daughter and the practical realities of her situation. She spends the night holding her baby, but the decision weighs heavily on her, and she feels helpless when she can't soothe her crying daughter. Miss Parcae appears in Fern's hospital room, offering to help her keep her baby if she joins the coven. Fern refuses, and Miss Parcae threatens her, warning that they will come for her if she doesn't comply. Fern finds the protective pouch she had hidden and wears it, determined to protect herself and her daughter from the witches. In the end, Fern decides to sign the adoption papers, believing it is the best decision for her daughter's future. She leaves the hospital with Diane, feeling a profound sense of loss and questioning whether she made the right choice.

Exhausted and filled with a deep sense of loss, Fern returns to the Wellwood House. Jasmine greets her warmly, and Clem, who is preparing to leave the Home, joins them. Fern and Clem share a cigarette, and Clem talks about her future plans, while Fern feels disconnected and tired. The next morning, Holly and Zinnia visit Fern, insisting on discussing Holly's upcoming delivery and their plan to help her avoid returning to Reverend Jerry. Fern, feeling overwhelmed, suggests they go to Diane for help, but Zinnia and Holly are skeptical and leave, with Holly revealing that she had already spoken to Diane.

Fern reflects on her time at the Wellwood House, the events leading to her daughter's adoption, and the protection provided by the amulet Hagar gave her. Determined to return to her old life, she is comforted by the thought of her father picking her up in a few days. However, her resolve is tested when Zinnia informs her that something is wrong with Holly, who has become distant and doll-like. Miss Wellwood calls Fern to serve iced tea to a guest, and Fern recognizes the man as Reverend Jerry, Holly's abuser. Feeling helpless, Fern leaves the room, telling Zinnia that it is not her problem anymore.

Fern, Ginger, and Jasmine watch a movie in Ginger’s room, and Fern reflects on her imminent return home, determined to forget about the Wellwood House and the events that transpired. Her thoughts are interrupted by Zinnia, who bursts in, pleading for help with Holly, who is in labor and hiding in Rose’s old attic room. Despite her initial reluctance, Fern feels a sense of responsibility and agrees to check on Holly.

Following the interruption by Zinnia, Fern, Hagar, and Miriam rush to Rose’s old attic room, where Holly lies in labor, her body a stark juxtaposition of youth and pregnancy. Fern, initially hesitant, is guided into the cramped, dimly lit space, the air thick with the scent of sweat and blood. Hagar and Miriam take charge, preparing Holly for delivery while Fern and Zinnia offer physical and emotional support.

The labor is grueling, Holly’s body straining against the limits of its capacity. Hagar and Miriam instruct Fern and Zinnia to help Holly push, pressing on her back and encouraging her to breathe and bear down. The room is filled with Holly’s screams and the relentless sound of her struggle. Zinnia, drawing on a metaphor of a wolf, empowers Holly, and they all shout together, giving her strength.

Miriam finally manages to deliver the baby’s head, but the infant’s face turns black from lack of oxygen. Hagar and Miriam decide to turn Holly onto her hands and knees, a risky and difficult maneuver. With the combined efforts of all present, they manage to deliver the baby, a girl, who is initially lifeless. Miriam performs mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, and the baby starts to cry, filling the room with a sense of relief and wonder.

Fern is profoundly moved by the experience, realizing that the magic of life and birth is more powerful than any witchcraft. The chapter ends with the baby crying and Holly holding her, while Fern slumps against the wall, overwhelmed by the miracle they have witnessed.

Hagar and Miriam tend to Holly after the grueling delivery, cleaning up and providing food to the exhausted girls. Fern and Zinnia, recognizing the imminent danger from Reverend Jerry, propose taking Holly to a neighbor's house for a few days. Initially hesitant, Hagar and Miriam agree after a whispered consultation, and Miriam hands Fern three quarters for the baby’s needs. As they prepare to leave, Hagar and Miriam stress the importance of not involving them further. The girls, with Holly and her newborn, set out to find Mrs. Easterly’s house with the blue door. Their plan is abruptly disrupted by the arrival of Nurse Kent, Dr. Vincent, and several police officers. Headlights blind them, and officers surround the group. Nurse Kent seizes the baby from Holly, and Miss Wellwood arrives, interrogating Hagar and Miriam about their involvement. Feeling threatened by their refusal to cooperate, Miss Wellwood threatens them and takes Holly back to the Home. Fern is arrested and placed in a police car, while Zinnia is taken by Miss Wellwood. Hagar and Miriam watch the girls depart, their resolve to leave the Home now unshakable.

Fern is transported back to the Wellwood House in a police convoy, her mind heavy with the futility of their attempts to help Holly. Despite the initial hope, she realizes that the outcome was inevitable: Holly would give her baby to Reverend Jerry, and the cycle of abuse and abandonment would continue. Fern feels a deep sense of loss and resignation, knowing that her own life will return to its previous track, but the trauma of her experiences will linger, a constant reminder of the pain she endured.

As the convoy arrives at the Wellwood House, Fern witnesses Reverend Jerry taking Holly’s baby, and Holly’s face looks dead with despair. Fern, feeling a surge of anger and desperation, runs to the porch and digs up a Nehi bottle, breaking it to create a makeshift weapon. She threatens to harm herself, invoking Hecate in a desperate plea for intervention. The police restrain her, and she cuts her tongue with the broken glass, spitting blood at the officers. Despite her actions, nothing seems to change, and she is placed back in the police car, feeling defeated and hopeless.

However, as the police car sits in the driveway, a sudden and violent storm erupts, seemingly in response to Fern’s invocation. Hail pounds the car, and a massive branch crashes through the windshield of another vehicle. The storm intensifies, tearing apart the Wellwood House and the surrounding area. Fern, trapped in the police car, watches in awe and terror as the storm wreaks havoc, destroying everything in its path. Miss Parcae appears at the window, and Fern realizes that the storm is the price she must pay for her actions.

Fern escapes the police car and runs through the storm, determined to avoid Miss Parcae and the witches. Her heart pounding, she stumbles into the kitchen, where she finds Holly and Zinnia hiding. Despite her injuries, she urges them to run, but Holly refuses to leave, insisting on facing the witches and protecting Fern from the consequences of her actions.

The witches, led by Miss Parcae, surround the house, and Miss Parcae calls upon the Triple-Faced Goddess to force Fern to honor her vow. Fern, defiant, refuses to back down, even as the Goddess's presence nearly overwhelms her. In a desperate act of bravery, Holly bites Miss Parcae and offers herself and her baby in Fern's place, pleading for their freedom.

Mags and other witches intervene, challenging Miss Parcae's methods and suggesting that Holly and her baby be taken instead of Fern. Miss Parcae, bitter and defeated, agrees to the compromise. The witches take Holly and her baby into the forest, leaving Fern and Zinnia behind as the storm subsides and the police arrive.

Fern is taken to the hospital, where her tongue is stitched, and she reunites with her father. Despite the chaos and the loss of Holly, Fern realizes that the witches have shown her mercy and a different kind of strength. She returns home, understanding that her father, like Miss Wellwood, is not evil but scared of what she can do.