Whisper of the Water Lilies

Want to read a sample of Heather's work?

Enjoy the free short story, Whisper of the Water Lilies, as an introduction to the Society of Magical Botanists world.

Welcome to the spring equinox festivities at Evergreen Academy... the secret college for magical botanists

Nevah is a first-year student at Evergreen Academy, a descendant of the academy’s founders, and a magical botanist with an aquatic affinity. When an unexpected mishap sidelines one of her classmates, Nevah is tasked with creating the academy’s aquatic display for the Spring Equinox—a responsibility typically reserved for second-years.

Faced with looming deadlines, finicky magical plants, and a forecast of rain threatening to ruin the display, Nevah is determined to prove she’s worthy of her lineage. But when her classmate, Kai, offers to help, she’s torn between her independence and the possibility that working together could save the day.

As Nevah navigates the pressures of her task, she discovers there is more to Kai than meets the eye, including a rare ability. And he knows there’s more to her, too. Through playful banter, a rain-soaked display with eager water lilies, and a shared moment of creative magic, Nevah learns to trust her instincts—and her heart.

Set in the enchanting world of Evergreen Academy, Whisper of the Water Lilies is a cozy, heartfelt tale of love, growth, and finding magic in unexpected places.