Page 8 of Hex and the Kitty

The door opened again, and Sheriff Reed Mallory entered, removing his wide-brimmed hat. His amber eyes—similar to Warrick’s but with fewer gold flecks—scanned the room with practiced efficiency, immediately noting the tension.

“Chief Shaw.” Reed nodded, his posture relaxed but alert. “Good to see you exploring our little community.”

“More revealing than expected,” Warrick replied, indicating his coffee.

Reed glanced at the mug, then at Daisy’s guilty expression. “Ah. Veritas Blend?”

“Truth potion,” Warrick confirmed.

“Could’ve been worse. Last month, she was experimenting with transformation elixirs.” Reed’s mouth twitched slightly. “Vincent still finds scales in unexpected places.”

Daisy huffed. “A minor side effect!”

Reed’s expression shifted as he registered Gus’s presence. The sheriff held the younger shifter’s gaze—not challenging, but clearly communicating awareness. Gus looked away first, jaw tightening visibly.

“Let me introduce you to some of our business owners,” Reed said, gesturing to a graceful woman approaching their table. “Luna Nightshade, our premier apothecary and expert in magical remedies.”

Luna moved with elegant poise, silver-streaked black hair falling in soft waves. Her violet eyes assessed Warrick with quiet intelligence. “A pleasure to meet you properly, Chief Shaw. Your reputation precedes you.”

SEVEN

Warrick stood, old-world manners surfacing automatically. “The pleasure’s mine.”

“Luna’s knowledge of magical herbs and protective enchantments has saved this town more than once,” Reed explained. “If you ever need specialized fire suppressants for magical blazes, she’s your expert.”

“My shop is always open to you,” Luna said, her voice melodic and measured. “Though I hope our acquaintance remains social rather than professional.” She smiled knowingly. “I understand you’ve already met my dear friend Molly.”

“Briefly,” Warrick managed, the truth potion compelling him to add, “Though memorable enough that I can still recall the exact shade of her eyes and the sound of her laugh.”

Luna’s smile widened. “How illuminating.”

More introductions followed—shopkeepers, craftspeople, and other local figures. Each greeting reinforced what Warrick had sensed from the beginning: Whispering Pines embraced its magical nature while maintaining the close-knit feel of a small community. The truth potion continued fading, though not quickly enough for his comfort.

Throughout the introductions, Warrick remained acutely aware of Gus watching him, the younger shifter’s hostility a tangible presence in the otherwise welcoming space.

Reed took Kade’s vacant seat when the introductions concluded, voice low. “Whispering Pines generally welcomes newcomers, but some folks need time to adjust. The transition hasn’t been smooth for everyone.”

“So I’ve observed,” Warrick replied, careful to keep his voice neutral despite the remaining effects of the potion. “Any specific concerns I should address?”

“Nothing concrete,” Reed said. “Just keep your senses sharp. Small towns have long memories and complex politics.”

Warrick nodded, appreciating the straightforward advice. “I should head to the station,” he said, rising from his chair. “Thank you for the... eventful coffee.”

Reed and Kade stood as well. “Stop by anytime,” Kade offered. “The show’s always entertaining.”

“And the coffee’s always truth-optional,” Reed added with rare humor as the jukebox started yet another love song.

Warrick headed for the door, nodding acknowledgments to those he passed. The morning had proven enlightening, if embarrassing. Whispering Pines contained more complexities than he’d initially assessed—warm community spirit layered over potential trouble.

As he stepped outside, the romantic ballad from the jukebox followed him through the open door. He caught sight of Elsie’s satisfied smile through the window and sighed.

The truth potion had forced him to vocalize thoughts he’d barely acknowledged to himself. Yes, Molly Hues had captivated him instantly—her scent, her laugh, those verdant eyes. And his tiger senses had detected her reciprocal interest: the quickening pulse, dilated pupils, the subtle change in her breathing when they touched.

Life had taught him to recognize attraction, but it had been decades since he’d felt its pull so strongly himself. His life consisted of duty and responsibility, not romance.

Yet Molly’s lingering scent in his memory suggested his carefully ordered existence faced disruption.

Warrick didn’t need to look back to know Gus Niles watched his departure with narrowed eyes. That brewing conflict demanded attention soon.

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