Page 17 of Witch Way to the Diapers

Sayer felt his cheeks warm, but he couldn’t help chuckling. “Fair enough. But how do I balance it all? I’ve built this business over centuries, I can’t just neglect it. But Fia and Vienna... they’re everything.”

Cedric’s expression softened. “You’re not alone in this, Sayer. You and Fia are a team now. It’s natural for there to be days when work demands more of your time. The key is communication.”

“Communication?” Sayer repeated, arching an eyebrow.

“Don’t give me that look,” Cedric warned playfully. “I know you lion types, all growls and no talk. But trust me, a little conversation goes a long way. There will be times when Fianeeds to focus on her business, too, and you’ll need to step up with Vienna. It’s a give and take.”

Sayer considered this, a new perspective dawning. “I suppose I’ve been trying to handle everything on my own,” he admitted.

“Exactly,” Cedric nodded. “You’re not a lone lion anymore, Sayer. You’ve got a pride now. Act like it.”

As they finished their tea, Sayer felt his dread lifting. Cedric’s advice, delivered with humor and understanding, had given him a new way forward.

Cedric smiled. “Parenting and running successful businesses are both challenging jobs. The key is to work together to find a balance that works for both of you. Have you talked to Fia about your concerns?”

Sayer shook his head, feeling a pang of guilt. “No, I... I didn’t want to burden her.”

“That’s your first mistake,” Cedric said kindly. “Open communication is essential. Share your struggles, listen to hers. You might be surprised at how understanding she’ll be.”

As they finished their tea, Sayer felt more certain about his way forward. Cedric’s advice had given him a new perspective.

After the mayor left, Ivy brought over another cup of her special calming blend. “You know,” she said, a mischievous glint in her eye, “you really should ask that lovely Fia out on a proper date.”

Sayer nearly choked on his tea. “I... what?”

Ivy laughed. “Oh, come now. You’re in a town full of magical creatures with heightened senses. We can all see you two are mates. Why not take the plunge and get to know each other better?”

Sayer’s mind went blank. “It’s complicated,” he mumbled.

“Life always is,” Ivy said sagely. “But that’s no reason not to embrace happiness when it comes your way. When you’re ready,give Daisy Bloom a call. She’d be more than happy to babysit Vienna for an evening.”

With those parting words, Ivy left Sayer to his thoughts. As he made his way home, his mind was awash with possibilities he hadn’t dared to consider before.

The house was quiet when Sayer returned, but he could hear movement upstairs. He headed to the kitchen and began pulling out ingredients. By the time Fia came downstairs with Vienna, a stack of French toast was waiting on the table.

“Sayer?” Fia’s surprise was evident in her voice. “You didn’t have to do this.”

He turned, taking in the sight of her. Fia’s hair was slightly mussed from sleep, and she wore simple lounge clothes, but to Sayer, she’d never looked more beautiful. Vienna squealed with delight in her arms, reaching for Sayer.

“Good morning,” he said softly, taking Vienna and settling her in her high chair. “I wanted to apologize for being so absent lately. And... I was hoping we could talk.”

Concern flickered across Fia’s face, but she nodded. “Of course. Is everything okay?”

As they settled in to eat, Sayer took a deep breath. “I’ve been struggling,” he admitted. “Trying to balance work and being here for you and Vienna. I feel like I’m falling short on both fronts.”

Understanding dawned in Fia’s eyes. “Oh, Sayer. Why didn’t you say something sooner?”

He shrugged, feeling vulnerable. “I didn’t want to add to your burdens. You’ve been handling everything so well, and I... I didn’t want you to think I couldn’t handle it.”

Fia reached across the table, her hand covering his. “We’re in this together, remember? You don’t have to shoulder everything alone.”

The warmth of her touch sent a jolt through Sayer. “Thank you,” he said softly. “I promise to be more open going forward.And I want you to know that if you ever need time to focus on your business, I’m here to take over with Vienna.”

A smile bloomed on Fia’s face, and Sayer felt his heart skip a beat. “I appreciate that,” she said. “Actually, there’s something I’ve been meaning to talk to you about too.”

Sayer’s brow furrowed. “What is it?”

Fia’s expression grew serious. “I’ve been getting calls from my parents and their lawyer. They want to see Vienna.”

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