Page 7 of Howling for Cupcakes

“Men don’t want style,” Noah barked. “They want short hair they can shake in the shower and be done with it.”

Venus’s eyes narrowed. “Just like you dogs shake off water?—”

“Hey, now,” Arden stepped in, “no name calling. We are friendly shifters even if one of you is a wolf and the other a tiger. Let’s find a compromise. Perhaps a joint promotion?”

Venus frowned. “A joint promotion? Why would I want that?”

Noah tapped his chin with his forefinger. “It could attract more customers to both our shops.”

“Exactly.” Arden nodded. “We’re a community. Let’s work together, not against each other.”

Venus huffed, but her expression said something else. “Fine. But only for a week.”

“Agreed. And no more stealing my customers.”

Arden sighed to himself. He’d take what he could get. “Deal. Now, let’s shake on it.”

As the situation resolved itself, Arden couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride in his role as a protector of Whispering Pines. He loved this quirky little town and the eclectic mix of supernatural beings that called it home.

With the disturbance handled, Arden resumed his patrol, his thoughts once again drifting to Mari. He wondered what it would be like if she really did move to Whispering Pines. Would they date or go directly into matehood? Who would move into whose house?

Lost in thought, Arden almost didn’t notice the figure struggling with a large box across the street. As he drew closer, his heart nearly stopped when he realized it was none other than his Mari herself.

Their eyes met, a flicker of recognition and surprise passing between them. Mari’s cheeks flushed a delicate pink, no doubt remembering their passionate night together while Arden couldn’t help but grin, delighted by the unexpected reunion.

Without hesitation, he crossed the street, his long strides eating up the distance between them. “Need a hand with that?” he asked, his deep voice laced with a hint of playfulness.

Mari bit her lip, a gesture that sent a jolt of desire through Arden’s body. “I... yes, thank you,” she replied, her voice soft and slightly breathless.

Arden easily hefted the box, marveling at the way Mari’s slender frame had belied her strength the night before. As they walked toward her new storefront, he couldn’t help but steal glances at her, drinking in the sight of her like a man parched.

“So, I hear you’re setting up shop here in Whispering Pines,” he commented, breaking the silence between them.

Mari nodded, tucking a stray lock of hair behind her ear. “Yes, I’m opening a pastry shop specializing in desserts. It’s a big step, but I’m excited about this new chapter in my life.”

“Well, I’m happy to welcome you to our little town,” Arden said sincerely. “And if you need any help getting settled, I’m more than willing to lend a hand.”

A small smile curved Mari’s lips, and Arden’s heart soared at the sight. “Thank you for the offer, Deputy.”

“Does your shop have a name?” he asked.

“I’m thinking Divine Escapes for those who want to escape the world one dessert at a time.”

“That’s fun,” he said. “I bet you’ll have people knocking down your doors.”

As they reached the main entrance, Arden set the box down, his gaze lingering on Mari’s face. The attraction between them was palpable, a current of electricity that seemed to crackle in the air.

“I should get back to my patrol,” he said reluctantly, not wanting to overstay his welcome. “But I meant what I said about helping out. Just say the word, and I’ll be there.”

Mari’s eyes softened, a hint of vulnerability shining through. “Thank you, Arden. I appreciate it more than you know.”

With a final nod and a smile, Arden turned to leave, his heart feeling lighter than it had in years. As he walked away, he couldn’t shake the feeling that his path was meant to cross with Mari’s, that their story was just beginning.

And for the first time in a long while, Arden found himself looking forward to the future, eager to see what the next chapter would bring.

FOUR

Mari’s heart raced as she stepped into her new bakery, the comforting scent of freshly painted walls and dust-free counters enveloping her. She paused for a moment, inhaling deeply and allowing the familiar aromas to soothe her frazzled nerves. This was her fresh start, a chance to reclaim her life and rediscover her passions—and maybe, just maybe, find a little magic along the way.

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