Page 19 of Enchanting the Alpha

“We’ve come to discuss something,” Neve said, her silver hair shimmering with magical energy as she took a seat across from Romi. The other elders arranged themselves around the table, their expressions both serious and kind.

Bella Swift’s emerald eyes held centuries of wisdom as she spoke. “The growing relationship between you and Xabir represents something significant for our communities.”

“More than you might realize,” Felix added, his usual playful demeanor tempered by the gravity of the moment. Despite his eternally youthful appearance, his eyes reflected decades of experience guiding the shifter community.

“The divide between witches and shifters runs deep,” Madame Zephyrine said, her amethyst eyes holding Romi’s gaze. “But we’ve observed how naturally you and Xabir bridge that gap. Your magic and his alpha energy intertwine harmoniously - something many thought impossible.”

“The younger generation looks to both of you,” Bella said softly. “They see the Western Lupo Pack’s alpha and a powerful witch building something real together. It gives them hope.”

Romi’s coffee cup tattoo warmed at their words. “Xabir and I... we’re just getting to know each other. I’m not sure what we have yet, but it’s definitely personal and not political.”

“Exactly!” Felix bounced on his toes, nearly setting his spiky red hair aflame in his excitement. “That’s what makes it perfect. You two could bridge the divide between our communities.”

“Your connection with Xabir is strong,” Neve added, her voice gentle but firm. “It could inspire others to follow suit.”

“We’ve seen how well you work together,” Bella said. “It’s time to harness that synergy.”

Before Romi could protest further, a car engine purred to a stop. Her magic sparked beneath her skin as Xabir emergedfrom his car in the parking space outside the entrance. The four conspirators exchanged meaningful looks.

“We’ve watched generations of witches and shifters maintain their distance,” Neve began, amusement dancing in her eyes. “Though some of us have been watching you and Xabir with particular interest.”

“The way your magic intertwines with his alpha energy is quite spectacular,” Madame Zephyrine added with a knowing smile. “Especially those heart-shaped lanterns at the market.”

Bella nodded, her emerald eyes twinkling. “The younger ones can’t stop talking about it. The mighty Alpha Lupo losing magical control because of a kiss? Quite the romantic statement. Not that we’re here to pressure you,” Bella added quickly, shooting Felix a look.

“Oh no, not at all,” Felix grinned, still bouncing. “We’re just four extremely powerful, magical elders who happened to stop by simultaneously to discuss your love life. Totally casual.”

Romi couldn’t help laughing. Trust Felix to acknowledge the absurdity of the situation. “And here I thought you were just planning another meditation class. Though I notice none of you have apologized to Mrs. Pembroke for the teapot incident.”

“She made excellent Earl Grey!” Felix protested. “And her handle was very becoming.”

“The point is,” Neve interjected, “your connection with Xabir brings out something unique in both of you. The younger witches and shifters see it too.”

“They’re starting to question the old barriers,” Bella added. “Yesterday, I overheard two young shifters asking if they could take magical brewing lessons at your café.”

“And my young witch apprentices keep finding excuses to visit the Lupo Hotel,” Madame Zephyrine said with a meaningful look. “Particularly when holding council meetings.”

TWENTY-ONE

The café’s bell chimed, and Romi’s magic sparked in recognition. The elders turned to see Xabir entering, his alpha energy immediately seeking out and harmonizing with Romi’s magic in a way that made Felix practically vibrate with excitement.

“My romantic heart can’t take it,” he declared. “Look at them! Even their magic is flirting!”

“And that’s our cue to leave,” Bella said, rising gracefully while trying to hide her smile. “Before Felix starts composing love poems.”

“Too late!” Felix pulled out a notebook. “I already have three verses about magical destiny and-”

“Time to go,” Neve cut in smoothly, steering Felix toward the door. “We have important elder business to attend to.”

“Like planning the eventual wedding?” Felix stage-whispered, earning simultaneous eye rolls from the other elders.

Madame Zephyrine’s eyes twinkled as she followed them out. “Do try to get some actual work done,” she called over her shoulder. “Between the meaningful glances and magical flirting.”

Xabir approached Romi’s table, one eyebrow raised. “Should I be concerned about four of the most powerful magical beings in town fleeing at my arrival?”

“Only if you’re worried about Felix writing epic poetry about us,” Romi grinned. “He’s already got several verses.”

“Terrifying.” But his eyes crinkled at the corners as he settled into the chair beside her, close enough that their knees touched. “Though not as terrifying as the stack of community outreach proposals we need to review.”

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