Page 20 of Witch Way to the Diapers

Maybe there was some truth to what her new friends were suggesting. And, maybe, it was time to stop fighting whatever this was between her and Sayer.

Sayer’s eyes widened as he took in the group of women. “Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t realize we had company.”

Fia quickly composed herself. “It’s fine, Sayer. My awesome new friends just stopped by for coffee.”

The women exchanged knowing glances as Sayer excused himself to shower, the sound of his footsteps fading up thestairs. Once they were sure he was out of earshot, Ellie leaned in conspiratorially, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

“So, about that ladies’ night we mentioned last time...” she began, her voice low and playful. “You’re definitely coming this time, right? No excuses about needing to alphabetize Vienna’s stuffed animals or color-code her onesies.”

Fia chuckled, but hesitation crept into her voice. “I don’t know... what about Vienna? I can’t just leave her...”

Celeste rolled her eyes dramatically. “Oh please, like that little angel isn’t the most adored baby in all of Whispering Pines. I’m pretty sure there’s a waitlist to babysit her.”

“Besides,” Tabitha added with a wink, “I’m sure a certain lion shifter wouldn’t mind some one-on-one time with his favorite niece. And maybe his favorite witch, if you play your cards right.”

Luna nodded sagely. “A night out could do wonders for your magical... tension. If you know what I mean.” She wiggled her eyebrows suggestively, causing the other women to burst into giggles.

As if summoned by their laughter, Sayer reappeared in the doorway. Fia’s breath caught in her throat. His hair was still damp from the shower, curling slightly at the nape of his neck. He’d changed into a soft, well-worn T-shirt that hugged his broad shoulders in a way that made Fia’s mouth go dry.

“I couldn’t help overhearing,” he said, his deep voice sending a shiver down Fia’s spine. “Fia, you should go to ladies’ night. I can watch Vienna for the evening.”

TEN

Fia turned to him, surprise evident on her face. She couldn’t help but notice the way his eyes seemed to linger on her, a warmth in their golden depths that made her heart skip a beat. “Are you sure? I don’t want to burden you...”

Sayer’s expression softened, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. “It’s not a burden, Fia. You deserve a night out.” He stepped closer, and Fia caught a whiff of his clean, spicy scent. “Besides, it’ll be good for Vienna and me to have some bonding time. I was thinking of introducing her to the finer points of lion cuisine. How do you feel about antelope puree?”

The room erupted in laughter, and Fia found herself joining in, the tension in her shoulders easing. The sincerity in Sayer’s voice, coupled with his playful joke, touched her deeply.

“Well, as long as you promise not to turn my niece into a carnivore overnight,” Fia teased back, surprised by her own boldness.

Sayer’s grin widened, a mischievous glint in his eye. “No promises. She might develop a taste for the wild side.”

Celeste cleared her throat loudly, reminding Fia and Sayer that they weren’t alone. “So, it’s settled then? Fia’s coming to ladies’ night, and Sayer’s on baby duty?”

Fia glanced around at the expectant faces of her new friends, then back at Sayer. His encouraging nod was all she needed. “Okay, then. I guess I’m in for ladies’ night.”

The women cheered, while Sayer’s smile softened into something that made Fia’s heart flutter.

“Great!” Tabitha clapped her hands excitedly. “Now, let’s talk outfits. Fia, darling, please tell me you have something that shows off those curves. Our lion friend here might need a little reminder of what he’s missing while he’s on diaper duty.”

Fia about fainted as Sayer’s gaze traveled appreciatively over her form. “I, uh... I’m sure I can find something,” she managed to stammer.

As the women launched into a lively discussion about fashion and the best places in town for a girls’ night out, Fia couldn’t help but steal glances at Sayer. He lingered in the doorway, his presence both comforting and exhilarating.

For the first time since arriving in Whispering Pines, Fia felt a spark of excitement for something beyond her responsibilities to Vienna. Maybe, just maybe, she could have it all – a loving home for her niece, new friendships, and the possibility of something magical with Sayer.

After the women left, promising to meet up later at the community center, Fia retreated to her room to get ready. As she rifled through her closet, her mind kept drifting back to Sayer. The memory of their kiss lingered, sending shivers down her spine.

She shook her head, trying to focus. They needed to keep things professional for Vienna’s sake. But every time she closed her eyes, she saw Sayer’s intense gaze, felt the ghost of his lips on hers...

Fia’s phone rang, the cheerful tone cutting through her thoughts. She glanced at the screen, smiling when she saw the caller ID.

“It’s Posey,” she called out to Sayer in the living room with Vienna.

“Ah, my sister,” Sayer replied, his voice warm with affection. “Tell her I said hello.”

Fia answered the call, settling onto her bed. “Posey! How are you?”

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