Page 2 of Witch Way to the Diapers

Kade’s stern features softened as he nodded in greeting. “Welcome to Whispering Pines. Any relation of Myla’s is always welcome here.”

Before Fia could respond, a whirlwind of energy burst through the café door. A woman with bright pink hair styled in a messy bun bounded over, her colorful glasses slipping down her nose.

“Did I hear someone say ‘new in town’?” she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement behind her frames. “Welcome to Whispering Pines. I’m Daisy Bloom.”

Fia found herself chuckling at Daisy’s enthusiasm. “Nice to meet you, Daisy. I’m Fia, and this is Vienna.”

Daisy’s face lit up as she cooed at the toddler. “Oh, aren’t you just the sweetest little thing! You know, I run the Phantasm Pharmacy just down the street. We cater to all sorts of spectral and magical needs – do stop by, even if it’s just for a chat.”

As Daisy chattered on, an older woman with silvery hair pulled into an elegant bun approached the group. Her amber eyes, so like Kade’s,

“Now, now, Daisy,” she chided gently. “Let’s not overwhelm our new neighbors all at once.” She turned to Fia with a warm smile. “I’m Elsie Blackwood, Kade’s mother. Welcome to our little slice of magical paradise.”

Fia felt herself relaxing in the presence of these kind strangers. “Thank you all for such a warm welcome. It’s... it’s been a difficult few weeks, but being here, I can see why Myla loved this place so much.”

Celeste reached out, squeezing Fia’s arm gently. “Why don’t you join us for lunch? We’d love to hear more about you and Vienna.”

Gratitude washed over Fia. “That would be wonderful, thank you.”

As they settled into a cozy booth, Vienna reached toward Celeste, babbling insistently. Celeste laughed, a musical sound that seemed to brighten the entire café.

“May I?” she asked, holding out her arms. Fia nodded, passing Vienna over. The moment Celeste held her, Vienna’s eyes widened with wonder, and she patted Celeste’s cheeks with her tiny hands.

Celeste’s expression grew thoughtful. “Oh my,” she murmured. “Fia, I hope you don’t mind me saying, but I can feel the powerful magic coursing through this little lady. She’s going to be quite the witch when she grows up.”

Fia’s breath caught. “Really? I mean, I knew she had potential – both Myla and I come from a long line of witches – but I wasn’t sure...”

Kade leaned forward, his voice low and reassuring. “She’ll be in good hands here. Whispering Pines is home to some of the most talented magical practitioners in the country. Vienna will have plenty of guidance as she grows into her powers.”

TWO

Relief flooded Fia. She’d been worried about raising a potentially powerful witch on her own, but knowing there was a community here to support them eased some of her anxiety.

As they ate – Kade insisting their meal was on the house – Fia found herself opening up to these newfound friends. She told them about her skincare line, Enchanted Skincare and Essences, and her plans to open a small shop in town.

“Wait,” Celeste gasped. “You’re the owner of the Enchanted Skincare and Essences line?”

Fia blushed. “Yes.”

“That’s my absolute favorite skincare,” Celeste squealed.

“Mine too,” Daisy said in awe.

“Celeste put me on to it and she’s got the entire town using your products,” Elsie gushed. “You are a very talented young witch. Your products are the best.”

“Thank you,” Fia smiled. “I created the products for Myla and myself when we couldn’t find clean skincare and essences that were good for our skin.” She laughed. “I told Myla I was going to take care of our skin while ensuring we aged gracefully.”

“I am so excited to have you here. And you’re thinking of opening a shop in town?” Celeste asked excitedly. “This is the best news.”

Fia nodded. “I’m debuting a baby line in the coming months. I wanted to create products for Vienna to use as well.”

Celeste turned to Kade. “Our baby is going to have the best products with her baby line.”

Kade chuckled. “Thank you for making my wife so happy. Anything baby related and she’s over the moon.”

“Oh, that’s marvelous!” Daisy exclaimed. “We could be neighbors! There’s a lovely little storefront available right next to my pharmacy.”

Elsie, who had been quietly observing the conversation, leaned in with a conspiratorial whisper. “Now, dear, don’t think I haven’t noticed you dodging my questions about your love life. A beautiful, talented young witch like yourself – surely you’re not single?”

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