Page 6 of Howling for Cupcakes

Oh, boy. It was going to be a long night.

THREE

Sunlight streamed through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the hotel room as Arden stirred from his slumber. He reached out instinctively, seeking the warmth of Mari’s body, but his hand met only cold, rumpled sheets. Confused, he sat up, blinking away the remnants of sleep as he scanned the room for any sign of her.

Her lavender scent lingered in the air, a tantalizing reminder of their passionate night together. Arden inhaled deeply, a smile tugging at his lips as memories of her soft skin and enticing curves flooded his mind. He couldn’t recall the last time he’d felt such a strong connection with a woman, especially considering they’d only just met.

Mate. Mate. Mate!

He sucked a breath deep. He’d been ignoring his wolf’s claim since he laid eyes on her that Mari was his mate. But now he knew for sure she was the one.

Intrigued by Mari’s absence, Arden climbed out of bed, stretching his muscular frame as he padded toward the bathroom. He had to head back to Whispering Pines today, but thoughts of Mari accompanied him as he went about his morning routine. Her melodic laughter and the way her hazel eyes sparkled with mischief played on a loop in his mind, refusing to be ignored.

With renewed energy, Arden showered and donned his deputy sheriff uniform, the khaki fabric stretching across his broad shoulders as he adjusted his badge. Despite his best efforts to focus on the day ahead, his mind continually drifted back to Mari, wondering how he could find her without coming across as overly eager.

The drive back to Whispering Pines was uneventful, the rural landscape blurring past as Arden’s thoughts remained occupied by a certain brunette witch. As he pulled into the sheriff’s office parking lot, he took a deep breath, mentally preparing himself for the day’s duties.

“Morning, Arden,” Sheriff Reed Mallory greeted him as he entered the building, his deep voice cutting through the low hum of activity.

Arden nodded in response, a polite smile on his face. “Morning, Sheriff. What’s on the agenda for today?”

Reed handed him a stack of papers, his expression serious. “Patrol. Same as usual.”

“You got it, boss,” Arden replied, tucking the papers under his arm as he headed toward the door.

The morning air was crisp and invigorating as Arden stepped onto the cobblestone streets of Whispering Pines. He inhaled deeply, savoring the scent of freshly baked bread wafting from the nearby Bewitched Bakery. As if on cue, his stomach rumbled, reminding him that he’d skipped breakfast in his haste to get back to town.

Arden made his way to the bakery, hoping to grab a quick bite. As he approached the colorful storefront, he spotted Molly Hues, the bakery’s owner and resident gossip, arranging a display of mouthwatering pastries in the window.

“Good morning, Molly,” Arden called out, flashing her a charming smile as he entered the bakery.

Molly looked up, her face lighting up with recognition. “Well, if it isn’t our dashing deputy. What brings you in so early, Arden?”

“Just looking for a little sustenance before I start my patrol,” he replied, eyeing the array of baked goods hungrily. “Anything you recommend?”

“Oh, you simply must try the cinnamon rolls,” Molly gushed, already plating one for him. “They’re my sister’s recipe. Speaking of Mari, did I tell you she’s moving to Whispering Pines? She’s opening a specialty dessert shop right here in town!”

Arden’s heart skipped a beat at the mention of that name, but he maintained a neutral expression. Could they be one and the same person? Probably just wishful thinking. “Is that so? I had no idea.”

Molly nodded enthusiastically, handing him the warm cinnamon roll. “Oh, yes! She’s been so busy getting everything arranged to open quickly. Today, she’s finally setting up the store. I’m sure she could use a hand with some of the heavy lifting, if you know what I mean?” She winked conspiratorially, and Arden fought the urge to chuckle.

“I’d be happy to lend a hand,” he offered, taking a bite of the gooey, delicious pastry. “Just let me know when and where.”

As Arden savored the cinnamon roll, he couldn’t help but feel a spark of excitement hoping this was his Mari. He listened attentively as Molly chattered on about her sister’s plans, trying to glean as much information as possible without seeming too eager.

Their conversation was interrupted by a commotion outside the bakery. Arden quickly set down his plate, his senses on high alert as he rushed to investigate.

Outside on the sidewalk, Venus Brighton the local hair stylist and Noah Lobo the town’s barber, argued.

“This is outrageous! She’s been stealing my customers!” Noah said.

Venus stomped her foot. “Nonsense! Your trims look like mullets. It’s why my hair salon is thriving!”

Arden lifted his hands. “Venus, Noah, let’s take a breath. What seems to be the issue?”

Noah huffed. “She’s undercutting my prices! It’s unfair competition.”

Venus snorted. “I have a right to set my own prices. Besides, my stylistic talents are much better than yours.”

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