Page 16 of Magic on the Prowl

A predatory smile curved his lips. “There’s so much more I’m going to do to your beautiful body now.”

Oh, wow. All Daisy could think was…Yes. Do it all.

ELEVEN

Golden sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the room where Roarke and Daisy lay tangled in each other’s arms. Roarke’s eyes fluttered open, his mind still hazy with sleep and the lingering emotions from the night before. He gazed down at Daisy, her vibrant pink hair tousled against the pillow, and felt a strange sensation in his chest – a mix of affection, protectiveness, and something deeper he couldn’t quite name.

Daisy stirred, her emerald eyes meeting his as a sleepy smile spread across her face. “Good morning, handsome,” she murmured, her voice husky with sleep.

Roarke’s heart skipped a beat at the endearment, still unused to the casual intimacy between them. “Morning, sunshine,” he replied, the words feeling foreign but right on his tongue.

Daisy stretched, her body pressing against his in a way that made Roarke’s pulse quicken. “I could get used to waking up like this,” she said, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Roarke chuckled, the sound rumbling in his chest. “Me too,” he admitted, surprising himself with the honesty of his words.

Daisy’s stomach chose that moment to grumble loudly, breaking the spell of the moment. They both laughed, the sound filling the room with warmth and ease.

“Breakfast at Ivy’s?” Daisy suggested, her eyes bright with excitement.

Roarke nodded, the idea of venturing out into the community with Daisy by his side both thrilling and daunting. He was falling for her, but the depth of his feelings scared him. He was a lone wolf, a protector, not someone who let himself get attached. But as he looked into Daisy’s eyes, he knew he was already in too deep to turn back now.

The Green Thicket Tea House buzzed with energy as Roarke and Daisy stepped inside, their hands intertwined. The air was a symphony of scents – the earthy aroma of freshly brewed tea, the warm fragrance of baked scones, and the subtle hints of various herbs and spices. Roarke took a deep breath, letting the comforting smells wash over him, feeling the tension in his shoulders ease.

“Daisy! Roarke! Over here,” a cheerful voice rang out above the chatter.

Roarke scanned the crowded tea house, his eyes landing on Ellie, who was waving at them enthusiastically from a corner table. She was seated with Reed, Celeste, and Kade, all of whom were grinning at the couple.

“Looks like we’ve been spotted,” Daisy said with a laugh, tugging on Roarke’s hand. “Come on, let’s join them before Ellie starts sending up smoke signals.”

They navigated through the maze of tables, dodging waitstaff balancing trays laden with steaming teapots and plates of delectable treats.

“Well, well, well,” Ellie said, her tone playful as she eyed their joined hands. “Looks like you two had a good night.”

Daisy giggled, the sound as sweet as the honey-drizzled scones on the table. “The best,” she confirmed, giving Roarke’s hand a gentle squeeze.

His face grew warm at the insinuation, but he couldn’t suppress a smile. Being with Daisy felt so natural, so right – even if the idea of a serious relationship still made his heart race with a mix of excitement and fear.

As they settled into their seats, the conversation flowed as easily as the tea being poured. Laughter punctuated the air as the group shared stories and jokes, the camaraderie between them palpable. Roarke was drawn into a discussion with Reed and Kade about Whispering Pines’s defense strategies, his mind already whirring with ideas.

“You know, Roarke,” Kade said, leaning back in his chair, a grin spreading across his face, “we’re planning on having a few drinks and discussing the town’s defense system later. Why don’t you join us at Hartley Brewery? We can brainstorm ways to keep our little slice of paradise safe.”

Roarke’s eyebrows shot up in surprise at the invitation. He glanced at Daisy, who was engrossed in an animated conversation with Ellie and Celeste, her hands gesturing wildly as she recounted some amusing tale. As if sensing his gaze, she turned, her eyes meeting his. The warmth and encouragement he saw in those emerald depths made the decision for him.

“I’d like that,” Roarke said, turning back to Kade and Reed. “Thank you. I’m here to help in any way I can.”

“Excellent!” Reed said, clapping Roarke on the shoulder. “With your expertise and our combined knowledge of Whispering Pines, those Reapers won’t stand a chance.”

“Speaking of supernatural,” Celeste chimed in, “I heard a rumor that a certain panther shifter and a certain witch were seen together last night. Care to comment, Daisy?”

Daisy’s cheeks flushed a delightful shade of pink, but she met Celeste’s teasing gaze head-on. “A lady never kisses and tells,” she said primly before dissolving into giggles.

“Oh, come on,” Ellie prodded, leaning forward eagerly. “We need details! Did he sweep you off your feet? Was there magic involved? Did you-”

“Okay, okay!” Daisy held up her hands in surrender, laughing. “Let’s just say it was a night to remember and leave it at that, shall we?”

Roarke thought he’d die of embarrassment, but seeing Daisy so happy, so radiant, filled his heart with a warmth he’d never known.

“Well, I think it’s wonderful,” Celeste said, her tone sincere. “You two make a lovely couple.”

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