Page 2 of Howling for Cupcakes

With a reluctant sigh, Mari agreed. “All right, all right. I’ll give Emily a call.”

“That’s the spirit. Remember, you’re an amazing woman, and you deserve the best. Now go out there and show the world what it’s been missing.”

Mari couldn’t help but chuckle at Molly’s irrepressible optimism. “Thanks, Molly. I’ll talk to you soon.”

Ending the call, Mari stared at her phone for a moment, gathering her courage. She dialed Emily’s number, her heart racing as she waited for her to answer.

“Mari? What a surprise!” Emily’s bubbly voice filled the line. “Please tell me you’re calling to finally take me up on my offer for a night out.”

Mari took a deep breath, pushing aside her doubts. “Actually, yes. I am. Where should I meet you?”

Emily’s squeal of delight nearly deafened Mari. “Oh my gosh, yes! Meet me at The Rusty Cauldron in an hour. You won’t regret this.”

With plans set, Mari ended the call and strode to her closet, determination fueling her steps. She sifted through her clothes, searching for the perfect outfit—something that would make her feel confident and ready to embrace this new chapter in her life.

Finally, she settled on a sleek, blue dress that hugged her curves in all the right places. She paired it with her favorite black heels and a delicate silver necklace that gleamed against her skin. As she stood before the mirror, Mari hardly recognized the woman staring back at her. The past year had taken its toll, but tonight, she was determined to reclaim her spark.

“You can do this,” she whispered to her reflection, a fierce glint in her eye. “It’s time to show the world what Marigold Sinclair is made of.”

With a final nod of determination, Mari grabbed her purse and strode out of the house, ready to face whatever the night had in store.

The Rusty Cauldron was alive with energy when Mari arrived. Music pulsed through the air, mingling with the hum of conversation and laughter. She spotted Emily waiting by the entrance, her red hair a beacon in the crowd.

“Mari!” Emily exclaimed, pulling her into a tight hug. “You look amazing. I’m so glad you came.”

Mari returned the hug, feeling a flicker of excitement begin to replace her nerves. “Thanks for inviting me. I needed this.”

Arm in arm, they entered the bar, immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere. The Rusty Cauldron was a local hotspot known for its lively ambiance and eclectic clientele. As they wove through the throng of patrons, Mari couldn’t help but feel a sense of liberation.

They found a table near the bar, settling in as Emily flagged down a server to order their drinks. Mari’s eyes scanned the room, taking in the sea of unfamiliar faces. It had been so long since she’d been out like this, and a part of her felt out of place like a puzzle piece that no longer fit.

Emily, ever attuned to Mari’s moods, leaned in with a reassuring smile. “Hey, relax. You’re doing great. Tonight’s about letting loose and having fun.”

Mari nodded, forcing a smile. “You’re right. I’m just... adjusting.”

As their drinks arrived, Emily launched into a lively story about her latest dating misadventures, her animated gestures and self-deprecating humor soon had Mari laughing. The tension melted away as they fell into easy conversation, catching up on the months they’d lost touch.

Suddenly, a ripple of energy passed through the bar. Mari’s gaze was drawn to the entrance where a tall, striking figure had just arrived. He moved with a confident, almost predatory grace, his presence commanding attention without effort. As he turned, his piercing green eyes locked with Mari’s, and an instant spark of electricity passed between them. Holy wow. Talk about every woman’s wet dream come to life.

Emily, noticing Mari’s distraction, followed her gaze. “Well, well, well,” she murmured appreciatively. “Looks like the night just got a lot more interesting.”

Mari couldn’t tear her eyes away from the mysterious stranger. There was something about him—a raw, magnetic energy that called to her on a primal level. She watched as he made his way to the bar, his every movement exuding confidence and purpose.

“You should go talk to him,” Emily urged, nudging Mari with a mischievous grin.

Mari hesitated, her heart pounding. It had been so long since she’d felt this kind of attraction, this instant, visceral connection. The thought of approaching him made her palms sweat and her mouth go dry.

“Like hell!”

“Oh, come on, Mari. He’s hot.”

“Yeah. That’s kind of the problem. He’s the type of hot that is probably used to women throwing themselves at him.”

“So? You’re hot too!”

She gave Emily a look. “Right.”

“You are super-hot. In that total MILF type of way. Stop doubting yourself. You just told me earlier you needed a fresh start. Well, stop allowing the past to hold you back. Be that self-assured, strong, sassy woman I know lives inside you. Let her out.”

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