Page 31 of Magic on the Prowl

Roarke nodded, his jaw set with resolve. “We will,” he promised. “Together, we’ll make Whispering Pines a safe place for our children to grow up.”

TWENTY

The crisp autumn air whispered through the colorful leaves of Whispering Pines, carrying with it a sense of renewal and hope. Daisy walked down the cobblestone streets, a bounce in her step and a smile on her face. The town had emerged from the battle with the Reapers stronger than ever, its magical defenses fortified and its community united.

A month had passed since that fateful day, and life had slowly returned to normal. Well, as normal as it could be in a town filled with witches, shifters, and all manner of supernatural beings.

Her thoughts turned to her friends, especially Ellie and Reed, who were now the proud parents of a beautiful baby boy named Asher. Daisy had been taking turns with Ivy, Tabitha, and Sera to help the new parents, giving Ellie a chance to rest and recharge. It was a labor of love, and Daisy cherished every moment she spent with the little bundle of joy.

As she approached Ellie and Reed’s home, a quaint cottage with a white picket fence, Daisy felt a flutter of excitement in her stomach. Tonight, she and Roarke were babysitting Asher, and she couldn’t wait to spend some quality time with her two favorite boys.

Daisy knocked on the door, bouncing on the balls of her feet. Ellie answered, looking radiant despite the dark circles under her eyes. “Daisy, you’re a lifesaver,” she said, pulling her friend into a warm hug. “I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

“Nonsense,” Daisy grinned, stepping inside. “You’d be just fine. But I’m more than happy to help out. You know how much I love that little munchkin.”

Ellie led her into the living room where Asher was nestled in his bassinet, his tiny face scrunched up in sleep. Daisy’s heart melted at the sight, and she had to resist the urge to scoop him up and smother him with kisses.

“Everything you need is in the nursery,” Ellie explained, grabbing her coat. “There’s plenty of formula in the fridge, and the diapers are in the top drawer of the changing table. If you need anything, just give me a call. We’ll see you in the morning.”

Daisy nodded, already mentally preparing for the night ahead. “Don’t worry about a thing,” she assured her friend. “Roarke and I have got this. You and Reed just enjoy your date night.”

Ellie’s eyes sparkled with gratitude as she hugged Daisy once more before heading out the door. As soon as it clicked shut behind her, Daisy sprang into action. She waved her hands, and a flurry of pink sparkles filled the room. Soft, plush blankets appeared on the floor, along with a variety of age-appropriate toys and books.

She was just putting the finishing touches on the makeshift playpen when a knock at the door startled her. Daisy’s heart skipped a beat, knowing exactly who it was. She practically ran to the door, throwing it open to reveal Roarke standing on the porch, a bag slung over his shoulder and a smile on his handsome face.

“Hey, there, gorgeous,” he greeted her, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “Ready for an evening of fun and chaos?”

Daisy laughed, stepping aside to let him in. “Always,” she said, pecking him on the cheek. “And it looks like you came prepared.”

Roarke held up the bag, a hint of pride in his voice. “I did some research,” he admitted, setting it on the coffee table. “Wanted to make sure we had everything we needed to keep the little guy entertained.”

Daisy watched, her heart swelling with affection, as Roarke pulled out an assortment of child-safe toys and books. There were soft blocks, rattles, and even a stuffed panther that bore a striking resemblance to Roarke’s shifter form.

“Roarke, this is amazing,” she breathed, running her fingers over the soft fur of the toy. “You didn’t have to go to all this trouble.”

He shrugged, a slight blush coloring his cheeks. “I wanted to,” he said simply. “I know how much Asher means to you, and I want to be a part of that.”

Tears prick at the corners of her eyes, overwhelmed by the thoughtfulness of the man standing before her. She launched herself into his arms, hugging him tightly. “Thank you,” she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. “You have no idea how much this means to me.”

Roarke held her close, his strong arms encircling her waist. “I think I’m starting to get an idea,” he murmured, pressing a kiss to the top of her head.

Their tender moment was interrupted by a soft coo from the bassinet. Daisy pulled back, a grin spreading across her face. “Looks like someone’s awake,” she said, moving to scoop Asher into her arms.

The baby blinked up at her, his wide blue eyes filled with curiosity. Daisy nuzzled his soft cheek, inhaling the sweet scent of baby powder and innocence. “Hey, there, little man,” she cooed, bouncing him gently. “Look who’s here to play with you.”

She turned to face Roarke, who was watching them with a look of wonder on his face. Asher’s gaze landed on the panther shifter, and his face immediately broke into a toothless grin. He waved his chubby arms, gurgling happily.

“Well, would you look at that,” Daisy laughed, her heart melting at the sight. “I think he likes you.”

Roarke stepped closer, a tentative smile on his face. “You think so?” he asked, holding out a finger for Asher to grab.

The baby latched onto it, his tiny hand barely able to wrap around Roarke’s digit. He let out a delighted squeal, kicking his legs in excitement.

“Oh, he definitely likes you,” Daisy confirmed, her eyes shining with joy. “Looks like you’ve got a new best friend.”

Roarke chuckled, his gaze softening as he looked down at Asher. “I could get used to this,” he admitted.

Daisy’s heart skipped a beat at his words, a warmth spreading through her chest. She knew that Roarke had been hesitant about settling down, his past experiences making him wary of commitment. But seeing him like this, so open and vulnerable, made her realize just how far he’d come.

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