Page 6 of Hex and the Kitty

“That’s Molly’s usual table. Best view in the house.” He pointed toward a booth where a small, hand-painted sign displayed “Molly’s Corner” perched on the table edge.

Warrick’s brow creased. “Thank you for the... recommendation.”

A woman in a floral apron stepped into his path. “Try the cinnamon twists. Molly’s favorite.” She winked and continued to another table.

His tiger senses prickled. The entire town apparently considered his interaction with Molly last night fair game for matchmaking efforts. He surveyed the café, searching for a neutral spot away from “Molly’s Corner” but not so distant as to appear rude to the overeager patrons.

He settled at an empty table by the window. The vintage jukebox in the corner crackled to life, unprompted. The opening notes of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” floated through the café.

No one stood near the jukebox. No coins inserted. Yet the romantic melody filled the space, volume swelling when his gaze drifted toward Molly’s designated spot.

“Enchanted appliances,” he muttered under his breath. Even after three centuries of life, some magical meddling still managed to surprise him.

The song ended only to transition seamlessly into “The Way You Look Tonight.” Warrick ran a hand through his short dark hair, inhaling deeply to maintain his composure.

Kade Blackwood approached from behind the espresso bar, carrying two steaming mugs. The wolf shifter moved with easy confidence, blue eyes reflecting the warmth of his smile. He placed one mug in front of Warrick.

“Morning, Chief. House blend—strong enough for shifters.” Kade gestured to the chair opposite. “Mind if I join you?”

“Please.” Warrick nodded, grateful for the normalcy of the interaction.

Kade slid into the seat with fluid grace. “Station working out for you? David Rhodes mentioned you’ve been reviewing all the equipment.”

“David’s been invaluable.” Warrick lifted the mug to his lips, savoring the rich aroma. “The station’s well-maintained, though some of the equipment needs updating.”

“That’s David—methodical to a fault.” Kade took a sip from his own mug. “That table has the best view of Main Street. Molly claims it whenever she stops in before opening her bakery.”

Warrick nearly choked on his coffee. “Do all conversations in this town eventually circle back to Molly Hues?”

Kade’s laugh boomed through the café. “Mom considers matchmaking an Olympic sport, and she’s gunning for a gold medal.” He nodded toward Elsie, who quickly pretended interest in stirring her tea. “The whole town’s following her lead.”

“I noticed.” Warrick took another deep sip of coffee.

“Celeste put protective wards around the café when we took over from Mom,” Kade continued. “Makes this place neutral ground. Shifters, witches, gnomes—everyone belongs here.”

“Commendable philosophy.”

“Speaking of belonging...” Kade’s expression turned sly. “You might run into Molly later. She usually stops by before heading to her bakery, but she’s running late today. Probably recovering from last night’s excitement.”

The jukebox switched to “I Only Have Eyes For You,” volume increasing noticeably.

Warrick arched an eyebrow. “Is the jukebox always this... opinionated?”

“Only when it senses potential romance.” Kade grinned, then glanced toward the door. “Incoming. Brace yourself.”

Daisy Bloom hurried through the café, her bright pink hair bouncing with each step. She clutched a small glass bottle labeled “Veritas Blend” and made a beeline for their table.

“Morning, gentlemen!” Her colorful glasses slid down her nose as she beamed at them. “Chief Shaw! I wanted to apologize about last night’s frosting fiasco. Such magical mishaps happen, especially when—oh!”

Someone bumped into her from behind. Her hand jerked forward just as Warrick raised his mug for another drink. Several drops from the bottle splashed into his coffee—already halfway to his lips.

The liquid touched his tongue before he registered Daisy’s dismayed exclamation.

“Oh no! I’m so sorry!” Her eyes widened behind her glasses.

Kade reached for Warrick’s mug, but too late. “Daisy, tell me that wasn’t?—“

“Just a tiny truth enhancement?” Daisy winced, pushing her glasses back up. “For clients who struggle articulating spectral symptoms. It should only last a few minutes.”

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