Page 19 of Bearly Bewitched

Now it was Kaine’s turn to almost choke on his coffee, his momentary fluster making his bear energy flutter like autumn leaves in a breeze. Vail bit her lip, trying not to smile at his expression. It softened his usually stoic demeanor in a way that made her heart flutter traitorously.

“I apologize,” he said once Daisy was out of earshot. “She’s gotten very invested in... well...”

“Playing matchmaker?” Vail supplied. “Don’t worry. According to Sabine, half the town’s already betting on when we’ll—“ She stopped, heat creeping up her neck.

“When we’ll what?” His eyes held a dangerous glint of challenge.

SIXTEEN

Before Vail could formulate a response, Romi swooped past their table with fresh coffee. “The betting pool’s up to fifty gold pieces now,” she announced cheerfully. “Though I’d appreciate it if you could hold off until next week. That’s when my wager kicks in.”

“Romi!”

“What? I’m just being honest about my investment in your happiness.” She winked. “Besides, you two look adorable sharing pie together. Very romantic.”

“This isn’t—we’re not—“ Vail sputtered, her magic making the coffee in her cup swirl in agitated patterns.

“Of course not,” Romi agreed with exaggerated innocence. “You’re just two people who create literal magical symphonies whenever you’re near each other, sharing enchanted dessert while making heart eyes across my table. Totally professional.”

She danced away before Vail could protest further. At the counter, Yesenia was obviously trying not to laugh while making Daisy’s hot chocolate.

“I should probably get back to work,” Vail said, desperately needing to escape before her face burst into flames – literally,given how her magic was responding to her embarrassment. She reached for her bag, but Kaine’s hand covered hers.

“Wait.” His touch sent cascades of golden light rippling, making time seem to slow around them. “About the archives research... would you still be willing to help? For Daisy’s sake?”

Those last three words were clearly added to give her an easy out – a professional reason to say yes. But the warmth in his eyes suggested he hoped for more than academic collaboration.

“Of course.” Vail found herself nodding as their combined magic made the air between them dance with possibilities. “We could start this evening, if you’d like. The academy library should be quiet then.”

“Perfect.” His smile made her magic surge like a rising tide, causing the enchanted candles overhead to flame higher. “I’ll bring Daisy’s curse diary and any relevant shifter texts I’ve found.”

“I’ll supply the traditional witch resources.” She stood, gathering her things. “And maybe we could get dinner first? To discuss our research strategy?”

The words tumbled out before she could stop them. Kaine’s expression brightened noticeably until the whole café felt warmer.

“I’d like that.”

From the counter, Daisy let out a squeal of delight that she quickly tried to cover by slapping her hands over her mouth, her excitement making her hot chocolate temporarily levitate. Romi didn’t even attempt to hide her triumphant grin as the café’s enchanted plants burst into synchronized bloom.

“See you at seven,” Vail said quickly, hurrying toward the door before anyone could comment. But she couldn’t quite suppress her smile as she heard Daisy’s excited whisper:

“Aunt Romi! Did you see? They’re going on a real date!”

“Hush, sweetie,” Romi stage-whispered back. “Don’t jinx it. But yes, my enchanted whipped cream never fails.”

The Moonlight Bistro’senchanted lanterns cast a soft glow over the cobblestone street, their light seeming to intensify as she approached, responding to her anticipation. She spotted Kaine waiting by the door, his usual business attire replaced by dark jeans and a forest-green shirt that made her mouth go dry. His bear energy rolled out to meet her magic before she even reached him, making the air between them thick with possibility.

“You look beautiful,” he said quietly. His voice carried that deep timbre that seemed to resonate straight through her body. She caught herself staring at how his shirt stretched across his shoulders, the way it emphasized his broad chest and strong arms. When he stepped closer to open the door, his warmth radiated against her back, his scent overwhelming her senses. She barely suppressed a shiver when his hand brushed the small of her back, guiding her inside. The sincerity in his voice made her magic surge.

Heat bloomed in her cheeks. “Thank you. You look... nice too.”Nicewas an understatement. The Henley did unfair things to his shoulders, and his energy wrapped around her like a warm embrace, making the enchanted lanterns pulse brighter in response.

Inside, the maître d’ – a sylph with translucent wings that shimmered with detection magic – led them to a cozy corner booth. Floating candles drifted overhead, their flames stretching toward Vail’s fire magic like eager children reaching for their mother.

“Your usual table, Mr. Urso.” The sylph’s knowing smile suggested this was a preferred spot for romantic evenings,her wings casting iridescent patterns that danced across the tablecloth.

“Perfect, thank you.” Kaine held out a chair for Vail, his fingers brushing her shoulder as she sat. The contact sent ribbons of golden light cascading around them, making the enchanted wine glasses sing soft harmonies.

“I hope this place is all right,” he said, settling across from her, making the space feel more intimate. “They make an excellent pepper-crusted steak, and the wine list includes several vintages enhanced by dryad magic.”

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