Page 69 of Beary In Love

"They're better conversationalists than some people I know," she teased. "At least they don't steal the last blueberry muffin."

"That was one time!" He crossed the room and wrapped his arms around her waist from behind. "And I made it up to you."

"Mmm, you did." She leaned back against his chest, savoring his warmth. The fox watched them with curious eyes before curling up for a nap.

Through the window, she could see the whole sanctuary before them - the new aviaries gleaming in the sunlight, the expanded enclosures filled with recovering wildlife, and the gardens where she grew her potion ingredients. Each addition made with love and care, funded by their supportive community.

"Remember when you thought this place would bankrupt you?" She turned in his arms. "Now look at it."

"Pretty sure that was your doing." He pressed a kiss to her temple. "Your potions, your healing touch. This place wouldn't be half of what it is without you."

The praise still made her chest warm, but now she could accept it without deflecting. This was where she belonged - helping animals, practicing her craft, and sharing her life with the man who'd helped her rediscover her confidence and joy.

"Speaking of my potions," she said, "I need to check on that batch for the injured eagles. Want to help?"

"Only if you promise not to turn anything into flowers this time."

"That was also one time!" She laughed, taking his hand and leading him toward her workroom. "And admit it - those daisies smelled amazing."

Later that night, Serena finished updating the last of her patient charts, noting the remarkable recovery of the young deer they'd taken in last week. The setting sun painted the medical wing in warm amber hues, casting shadows across her desk. She tucked her hair behind her ear as she reviewed her notes one final time.

Logan's footsteps echoed down the hall - she'd recognize that particular gait anywhere. But something was different abouthis rhythm today, almost bouncy. When he appeared in the doorway, he was practically vibrating with contained energy.

"Hey there." His voice carried a hint of something she couldn't quite place. "About done?"

"Just finishing up." She narrowed her eyes at him. "Why are you smiling like that?"

"Like what?" He scratched his chin, a telltale sign he was hiding something. "Can't a man smile at his beautiful girlfriend?"

"A man can. You, however, look like you just found a honey stash."

"Just head home when you're done. Take your time." He backed away, still grinning. "No rush."

An hour later, Serena pushed open their cabin door, breathing in the peculiar mix of herbs and wood smoke that meant home. The scent of rosemary and garlic drew her toward their back porch, where she stopped short at the threshold.

Logan had transformed their usual dining space into something magical. Twinkling fairy lights draped the restored wooden beams, casting a soft glow over a table set with their best dishes. Candles flickered in mason jars, and a bottle of her favorite wine sat chilling in an ice bucket.

"You did all this?" She took in the perfectly arranged place settings and the covered dishes that promised something delicious underneath.

"Surprised?" Logan emerged from the kitchen, wearing the blue button-down she loved on him. "Thought we could use a proper date night at home."

"Is that what you were being weird about earlier?" She laughed, moving into his arms. "I thought maybe you'd let another raccoon loose in the house."

"One time!" He kissed her temple. "And in my defense, she was very persuasive."

The sanctuary was peaceful in the gathering dusk. Serena leaned into Logan's embrace, watching the last rays of sunlight paint the sky in brilliant pinks and purples. She couldn't imagine being anywhere else.

Serena soon savored another bite of the perfectly seasoned salmon, watching Logan over the rim of her wine glass. He'd outdone himself with dinner - the fish practically melted in her mouth, and the roasted vegetables had just the right balance of herbs and garlic. His cooking skills had definitely improved since their younger days when his idea of a fancy meal was ordering takeout.

"This is incredible," she said, gesturing with her fork.

His hand found hers across the table for what felt like the hundredth time that evening. Not that she minded - she loved how attentive he was, but combined with the way he kept fidgeting and checking his pocket, something was definitely up.

"You're being weird again," she said, tilting her head. "What are you plotting?"

"Can't a man just enjoy dinner with his gorgeous girlfriend?" His gold-flecked eyes sparkled with barely contained excitement.

"A man can. You look like you're about to burst."

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