Page 27 of Howling for Cupcakes

“I bet they think they’re really something, sipping their beers and talking sports,” Sera snorted, rolling her eyes. “As if that could ever compare to this.”

Ellie giggled, a little tipsy from Ivy’s potent sangria. “Oh, I can just picture it. Reed trying to out-alpha Kade with Arden and Lark egging them on...”

“While Roarke just sits back and watches the chaos unfold, cool as a cucumber,” Daisy finished, grinning. “Goddess, what I wouldn’t give to be a fly on that wall.”

“They probably think they’re being so suave and manly,” Ophelia chimed in. “Bonding over hops and testosterone.”

Luna nearly choked on her virgin margarita, tears streaming down her face. “Oh, if they only knew! I’d pay good money to see their faces if they could see us now.”

“Right?” Molly gasped out between peals of laughter. “Sipping daintily on their watered-down lager while we’re over here living our best lives with top-shelf tequila and enough food to feed a small army.”

Mari clutched her aching sides, cheeks sore from grinning. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d laughed this much, the last time she’d felt so utterly at ease in her own skin.

These women with their wicked wit and unshakable bond had become more than just friends. They were her tribe, her chosen family. The sisters of her soul.

As the laughter died down and the conversation lulled into a comfortable silence, Mari found herself reflecting on the visions Molly’s cupcakes had brought to life.

Her future with Arden, shining and bright with promise. Ophelia’s mystery man, waiting just around the corner. Love and happiness permeated every aspect of life here in Whispering Pines.

It was almost too good to be true, a part of her whispered. Too perfect to last.

But looking around at the faces of her sister witches, so open and warm with affection, Mari felt that flicker of doubt fade away.

This was real. This was hers. And she would fight tooth and nail to keep it, to nurture and protect this beautiful life she was building, one precious moment at a time.

“Penny for your thoughts,” Sera murmured, nudging Mari’s shoulder with a gentle smile.

Mari shook her head, returning the smile with a watery one of her own. “Just...thank you. For tonight, for everything. I don’t...I don’t know what I did to deserve all of you, but I’m so incredibly grateful.”

“Oh, honey.” Sera pulled her into a fierce hug, the others quickly joining in until Mari was cocooned in a tangle of arms and love. “You deserve the world, Mari. And we’re going to make damn sure you get it.”

“You’re all so kind.”

“Mari, don’t stop yourself from being happy,” Sera advised. “Arden loves you. If you love him, and I think you do, take a chance and see where things go. Don’t let Victor or your age difference stop you. If you do, you’ll let Victor win.”

She hadn’t thought of it that way.

At the end of the night, Mari’s heart thudded hard when she saw Arden waiting for her by the door.

“Ready to go?”

The instant flare of desire wouldn’t be shut down. “Yes.”

FIFTEEN

Mari felt lighter than air as she walked beside Arden, the cool night breeze carrying with it the lingering scents of spices and laughter from the festive girls’ night. Her heart was full to bursting, the love and support of her sister witches a warm glow in her chest that rivaled the moon above.

Arden’s hand brushed against hers, sending a delicious shiver up her spine. She glanced up at him, taking in the strong lines of his profile and the soft curve of his lips. Goddess, he was handsome. And he was here with her.

“So,” he drawled, a hint of mischief in his voice, “I take it you ladies had a good time tonight?”

Mari laughed, the sound ringing out clear and bright in the quiet street. “The best,” she confirmed, bumping her shoulder playfully against his. “Tabitha really outdid herself with the decorations, and don’t even get me started on Ivy’s palomas and Tabitha’s margaritas.”

Arden chuckled, shaking his head. “Sounds like a wild night. Meanwhile, us poor saps were stuck sipping boring old beer and talking about...well, I honestly can’t remember. It all pales in comparison to your fiesta extravaganza.”

“Aww, poor baby,” Mari teased, fighting a grin. “Forced to endure the company of your bros and all that free booze. However did you manage?”

“Har, har,” Arden grumped, but she could hear the smile in his voice. “Seriously though, I’m glad you had fun. You deserve it, Mari. More than anyone I know.”

---