Page 21 of Witch Way to the Diapers

Sayer’s sister’s vibrant voice filled the line. “Fia, hey! I’m fantastic. Just checking in on my favorite soon-to-be sister-in-law and that adorable niece of mine. How’s everything going?”

Fia chuckled at Posey’s teasing tone even as her heart fluttered at the implication. “What are you talking about? Soon-to-be-sister-in-law?”

“Hey, a girl can dream, can’t she?”

Fia laughed. “Sure, just don’t get angry if it stays just a dream. As for how everything is, all’s good. Vienna’s growing so fast, you won’t believe it when you see her.”

As they chatted about Vienna and Posey’s upcoming visit, the conversation took an unexpected turn.

“So,” Posey said, her tone casual but laced with curiosity, “how are things with my brother? He’s treating you well, I hope? No unexpected roars in the middle of the night or shedding all over the furniture?”

Fia pictured Sayer in his lion form. “Oh, um, yes. Sayer’s been very... supportive. And surprisingly neat for a big cat.”

Posey’s laugh tinkled through the phone. “That’s good to hear. You know, Fia, I hope you won’t let fear of the unknown keep you from exploring something special with Sayer. Even if that unknown involves the occasional hairball.”

Fia’s breath caught. “What do you mean?”

“Oh, come on,” Posey teased. “Don’t play coy with me. I’ve known my brother his entire life, and I’ve never heard him purr the way he does when he talks about you. So, tell me. On a scale of ‘meh’ to ‘meow,’ how attractive do you find my dear brother?”

Fia sputtered, nearly choking on her own saliva. “Posey! I... that’s not... we’re just co-parenting!”

“Uh-huh,” Posey drawled, clearly unconvinced. “And I’m the Queen of Sheba. Come on, Fia. I’ve seen the pictures he’s sent. Don’t tell me you haven’t noticed those arms. Or that jawline. Or the way his eyes crinkle when he smiles...”

“All right, all right,” Fia conceded, her face burning. “He’s... not unattractive.”

“‘Not unattractive’?” Posey repeated incredulously. “Honey, that’s like saying chocolate is ‘not unappetizing.’ Give me a little more here. Has there been any... tension? Lingering glances? Accidental touches that sent sparks flying?”

Fia’s mind flashed to the countless moments she and Sayer had shared – the brush of his hand as he passed her a cup of coffee, the intensity in his eyes when he looked at her across the room, the warmth of his body when they stood close.

“Maybe... a little,” Fia admitted reluctantly.

“I knew it!” Posey crowed triumphantly. “Look, I know my brother can seem like a workaholic with a mane, but he’s really a kind, caring guy. Women have been trying to get him to commit for as long as I can remember. But you... there’s something different about the way he talks about you. It’s like he’s finally found his pride, you know?”

Fia’s heart raced at Posey’s words. “I... I don’t know what to say.”

“You don’t have to say anything,” Posey replied gently. “Just... keep an open mind, okay? And maybe invest in some catnip. You know, just in case.”

Fia couldn’t help but laugh. “Posey!”

“What? I’m just saying, a little catnip goes a long way with shifters. Now, about that baby products store... any chance you’re considering a line of shifter-friendly teething toys? I’m thinking maybe a squeaky antelope or a plush gazelle...”

As Posey launched into her ideas for the store, Fia’s mind whirled with the possibilities she had hinted at. Could there really be something more between her and Sayer? And more importantly, was she ready to take that leap?

After hanging up, Fia resumed getting ready for ladies’ night. She chose a cute red dress that hugged her curves and made her feel sexy.

As she applied a touch of mascara, her gaze drifted to a photo of Vienna on her dresser. The little girl’s bright smile reminded her of why she was here and the responsibility she’d taken on.

But Posey’s words echoed in her mind. Why couldn’t she be a good guardian to Vienna and explore her feelings for Sayer? The two weren’t mutually exclusive.

Fia made her way downstairs, her heart skipping a beat as she caught sight of Sayer in the living room. He was sprawled on the couch, Vienna curled up on his chest as they watched a colorful animated movie.

The sight of them together, so comfortable and content, filled Fia with emotion she couldn’t quite name. Sayer looked up, his eyes widening as he took in her appearance.

“Wow,” he said softly. “You look beautiful, Fia.”

Fia felt a blush creep up her neck. “Thank you,” she murmured. She crossed the room, bending to place a gentle kiss on Vienna’s forehead. “Be good for Uncle Sayer, okay, sweetie?”

As she straightened, she found herself mere inches from Sayer’s face. Their eyes locked, and for a moment, the air between them crackled with unspoken tension.

---