Page 36 of Magic on the Prowl
Roarke nodded, a hint of pride in his voice. “We wanted to discuss the magical implications of our plans for the town’s defenses.”
Luna’s expression grew solemn, her eyes taking on a far-away look. “I had a feeling this day would come,” she murmured, almost to herself. “The stars have been whispering of great change.”
Daisy felt a shiver run down her spine at Luna’s words, a sense of destiny settling over her like a cloak. She glanced up at Roarke, seeing the same awe and wonder reflected in his eyes.
“What do we need to do?” she asked, her voice steady and strong.
Luna smiled, reaching into the folds of her robe and pulling out a small, silver amulet. It was intricately carved, the metal twisted into a delicate pattern of leaves and vines.
“This is the Amulet of the Ancients,” she said, holding it out to Daisy. “It has been passed down through generations of witches, imbued with the power of our ancestors. When the time is right, it will help to strengthen the magical barriers that protect our town.”
Daisy reached out, taking the amulet with reverent hands. She could feel the power thrumming through the metal, a warm, tingling sensation that spread from her fingers to her toes.
“Thank you,” she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. “We will use it wisely.”
Luna nodded, her eyes shining with pride. “I know you will,” she said softly.
As the sun climbed higher in the sky, bathing the streets of Whispering Pines in a warm, golden glow, Daisy and Roarke made their way to the edge of town. They climbed the hill that overlooked the valley, the one where they had shared so many quiet moments and heart-to-heart conversations.
At the top, they paused, looking out over the town that had become their home.
Roarke pulled Daisy close, his arms wrapping around her waist as he rested his chin on her shoulder. “I never thought I’d find a place like this,” he murmured, his voice soft and thoughtful. “A place where I could be myself, where I could find love and acceptance and a true sense of belonging.”
Daisy turned in his arms, looking up at him with shining eyes. “You’ve always belonged here, Roarke,” she said softly, reaching up to cup his cheek. “Even before you knew it, this was where you were meant to be. With me, with our friends, with this crazy, wonderful, magical town.”
Roarke smiled, leaning down to press a gentle kiss to her lips. “I know that now,” he said, his voice rough with emotion. “And I’m never letting go.”
TWENTY-THREE
Daisy walked into the Lone Wolf Cafe, her hand intertwined with Roarke’s, a bright smile on her face. The cozy atmosphere of the restaurant enveloped her like a warm hug, and the sight of her friends already seated at a large table made her heart swell with joy.
As they approached the table, Celeste waved enthusiastically. “Well, look who decided to grace us with their presence,” she teased, her lips curving into a playful grin.
Daisy laughed, pulling Roarke along as they joined the group. “Sorry we’re late,” she apologized, settling into a chair beside Ellie. “Someone couldn’t decide what to wear.”
Roarke’s eyes widened. “I seem to recall a certain someone taking forever to choose the perfect shade of pink lipstick.”
The table erupted into laughter, and Daisy felt her cheeks heat, a blush spreading across her face. She nudged Roarke with her elbow. “Well, I had to make sure I looked my best for you, didn’t I?”
Kade chuckled, his arm draped casually over Celeste’s shoulders. “I think we can all relate to that,” he said, his deep voice laced with amusement. “Celeste once spent an hour trying on different dresses for a picnic in the park.”
Celeste gasped, swatting at Kade’s chest. “Hey! I wanted to look nice for our date,” she protested, her lips pursed in a mock pout.
Ellie leaned forward. “Oh, don’t even get me started on Reed,” she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “He’s the worst when it comes to getting ready. I swear, he spends more time in front of the mirror than I do.”
Reed spluttered, his face turning a deep shade of red. “That’s not true,” he objected, his voice rising an octave. “I just like to make sure I look presentable.”
Tabitha snorted, her blonde hair cascading over her shoulders as she shook her head. “Please, Reed. We all know you’re a closet fashionista,” she teased, her bright eyes dancing with laughter.
Bram wrapped an arm around Tabitha’s waist, pulling her close. “Says the woman who has a different pair of shoes for every outfit,” he retorted, his tone filled with affection.
Sera giggled, her fingers intertwined with Lark’s on the table. “I think we can all agree that relationships are full of silly moments,” she said, her voice soft and thoughtful. “But that’s what makes them so special, don’t you think?”
Lark nodded, his dark hair falling into his eyes as he gazed at Sera with adoration. “Absolutely,” he agreed, his voice filled with warmth. “I wouldn’t trade our silly moments for anything in the world.”
Elsie, who had been listening to the conversation with a knowing smile, finally chimed in. “You know, my dears,” she said, “the key to a happy relationship is compromise. You have to learn to accept each other’s quirks and find a way to meet in the middle.”
Daisy nodded, her heart swelling with gratitude for the incredible people surrounding her. “I think you’re right, Elsie,” she said, her voice filled with emotion. “We’re all so different, but that’s what makes us work. We balance each other out.”