Page 23 of Magic on the Prowl

Daisy’s heart swelled at his words, touched by the vulnerability he was showing her. “I’m honored, Roarke. I can already tell it’s going to be perfect.”

Inside, the cabin was cozy and inviting with plush furniture and nature-inspired accents that suited Roarke’s down-to-earth personality. The living room featured a large, overstuffed sofa draped with a soft, forest-green throw blanket. The stone fireplace adorned with a mantelpiece crafted from a gnarled tree branch added a touch of rustic elegance. Daisy’s eyes were drawn to the bookshelves lining the walls, filled with an eclectic mix of titles that hinted at the depths of Roarke’s interests and intellect.

“It’s beautiful, Roarke,” Daisy breathed, her fingers trailing along the spines of the books. “It feels like a true reflection of you—warm, inviting, and full of surprises.”

Roarke ducked his head, a pleased smile tugging at his lips. “Thank you. That means a lot to me.”

After a leisurely stroll along the nearby creek, where they marveled at the shimmering water and the gentle sway of the tall grasses, the pair returned to the cabin, their hands intertwined and their hearts light. As they stepped inside, delectable aromas wafted from the kitchen, making Daisy’s mouth water.

“Something smells amazing,” she said, her eyes widening with anticipation.

Roarke grinned, leading her to the kitchen. “I hope you’re hungry. I’ve prepared a little feast for us.”

The kitchen was a charming blend of modern appliances and rustic touches with a large wooden table at its center. On the table, Roarke had laid out a delectable spread of grilled steaks cooked to perfection, and fluffy baked potatoes, their skins crispy and golden. A fresh salad bursting with vibrant greens and colorful vegetables completed the meal.

Daisy’s heart swelled with appreciation and affection. The fact that Roarke had taken the time and effort to cook for her was incredibly endearing and spoke volumes about his investment in their budding relationship.

“Roarke, this is incredible,” she gushed, turning to face him. “You didn’t have to go to all this trouble for me.”

He reached out, cupping her cheek with his hand. “You’re worth every bit of effort, Daisy. I wanted to make tonight special for you.”

As they savored the flavorful dishes, the conversation flowed effortlessly, punctuated by flirty quips and peals of laughter. Daisy couldn’t remember the last time she’d felt so at ease and content in someone’s company. The steak was cooked to perfection, each tender bite melting in her mouth. The subtle smokiness from the grill mingled with the rich, buttery flavor of the meat, a testament to Roarke’s culinary prowess. The baked potatoes were fluffy and light, their crispy skins giving way to the soft, creamy interior. Daisy couldn’t help but let out a small moan of appreciation as she savored each delectable morsel.

“Mmm, Roarke, this is absolutely divine,” she praised, her eyes closing briefly in pure bliss. “You’ve truly outdone yourself.”

Roarke grinned, a hint of pride flickering in his eyes. “I’m glad you’re enjoying it, Daisy. I wanted everything to be perfect for you.”

Daisy’s heart fluttered at his words, the sincerity in his voice making her feel cherished and special. She reached across the table, her fingers brushing against his hand. “It is perfect, Roarke. Not just the food, but this entire evening. Being here with you, like this... it feels so right.”

Roarke’s fingers intertwined with hers, his touch sending a pleasant tingle up her arm. “I feel the same way, Daisy. I’ve never been one to let people in easily, but with you, it’s different. You make me want to open up, to share parts of myself I’ve kept hidden for so long.”

Daisy squeezed his hand, her eyes shining with understanding and affection. “I’m honored, Roarke. I want to know everything about you—your hopes, your dreams, your fears. I want to be someone you can always turn to no matter what.”

As they continued to eat, the conversation took a lighter turn, filled with laughter and playful banter. Daisy regaled Roarke with tales of her most humorous magical mishaps like the time she accidentally turned her hair a vivid shade of purple while trying to brew a potion for enhanced creativity.

“I looked like a walking grape for a week.” She giggled. “My customers couldn’t stop staring, and I had to come up with all sorts of wild excuses for my new look.”

Roarke chuckled, his deep laughter sending pleasant shivers down Daisy’s spine. “I bet you rocked that purple hair, though. You have a way of making even the most unexpected things look stunning.”

Daisy blushed, a coy smile playing on her lips. “Flatterer. Keep talking like that, and you might just earn yourself a second date.”

“Only a second date?” Roarke teased, his eyebrow arching playfully. “And here I was, hoping to charm my way into keeping you here for the night or…”

She raised her brows. “Or?”

“Or many nights.”

Daisy’s heart skipped a beat at his words, the implication of a future together making her pulse race. “Well, Mr. Easton, if you play your cards right, you might just get your wish.”

The evening continued in a delightful blur of laughter, heartfelt conversations, and stolen glances. As they finished their meal, Daisy leaned back in her chair, a contented sigh escaping her lips. “I can’t remember the last time I enjoyed a dinner this much. You’re an excellent cook, Roarke, but more than that, you’re an incredible companion.”

Roarke’s eyes softened, a tender smile gracing his handsome features. “The feeling is mutual, Daisy. Being with you, like this... it feels like coming home. I have to admit,” Roarke chuckled, spearing a piece of steak with his fork, “I was a bit nervous about cooking for you. I’m not exactly a master chef.”

Daisy shook her head, a playful smile on her lips. “Well, consider me thoroughly impressed, Mr. Easton. You have hidden talents.”

She leaned forward, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “So, tell me, what other surprises do you have up your sleeve? Can you juggle? Tap dance? Recite poetry?”

Roarke laughed, the sound deep and rich, sending a pleasant shiver down Daisy’s spine. “I’m afraid my talents are rather limited. But for you, I might be willing to attempt…a bit of poetry.”

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