Page 34 of Cuddly Demon

The attendant presses her hands to her heart. "You two are so cute."

We spend the next few hours exploring the shop, discovering new and exciting things. I find a book with spells for summoning creatures from other realms, a potion for invisibility, and an amulet for protection.

"How haven't the authorities shut you down?" I ask the attendant with a laugh.

"Most of them don't believe in magic. It's hard to close our store when they think we're crazy."

Saint snickers. "It's better that way. They'd probably use magic for harm instead of good."

The associate nods sagely. "You're right."

By the time we leave, I'm loaded down with bags full of magical items.

Saint grins. "You're going to be a powerful demon yet."

I nod, feeling a surge of energy run through me. "I am a powerful demon. However, it's never a bad thing to experiment with new forms of magic. One or two of these things will come in handy, I'm sure."

The associate laughs. "Before you go, would you two like your picture taken by this large crimson candle? It's said to be enchanted with a special spell that will capture and preserve your love forever."

Saint and I look at each other and smile. We share a kiss, then follow the associate.

The light of the candle flickers as I wrap my arm around Saint's waist. He leans into me, our faces illuminated by the warm glow of the flame.

The attendant takes our picture, capturing a moment of pure bliss between us.

When it's done, Saint looks at me with admiration in his eyes. He takes my hands in his, and says, "I can't imagine a better day."

"Let's take this picture with us," I say softly. "We'll frame it."

The attendant lifts a wand and produces a gorgeous frame. "Your wish is my command."

FOURTEEN

SAINT

"I think it's cute."

I snuggle up next to Onyx as he hangs our picture on the wall beside my bed. "I hope the associate was right about the candle's power."

"What do you mean?"

"Well, she said it'd keep our love strong forever. That's what I crave."

Onyx finishes hanging up the picture, then turns to me. He tilts my chin up, staring into my eyes. "Do you realize what you said?"

My breath hitches, and I nod slowly. "Yes. I do."

Onyx wraps his arms around me, and I feel his warmth seep into my bones. I look into his eyes, and for not the first time, I feel a deep, abiding affection for him.

"Tell me exactly what's on your mind. Don't hold back."

"I'm falling for you," I whisper, my voice thick with emotion. "Each day, you tear down walls I didn't realize I'd built up to protect myself. You care for me, go at my pace, and you always respect my feelings and needs. Yes, I'm in love with you, and my emotions only grow stronger. You're a beautiful soul, Onyx."

Onyx smiles, pressing a gentle kiss to my forehead. "I'm so glad you said that, because I'm... falling in love with you too."

We lay there for a few moments, simply enjoying the warmth of our embrace. Then, Onyx leans back and looks at the picture.

"It's perfect," he says.