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HARPER

Ten years later.

Harper opened the Center’s front door and stepped into the dark foyer. A light shone in the hall beyond. He knew he’d find his mate here, not just because of the bond.

“You’re supposed to be closed for the night,” Harper called.

“I just have to finish one more thing,” Ash shouted back.

Harper entered the small office. “What are you doing?”

Ash pointed to the computer. “I just needed to order a few extra things for the community night next week.”

Harper inspected the screen. “More food?” He rolled his eyes, pretending to be annoyed, even though he knew Ash could feel how warm and gooey he was inside.

“Just a little more food. We didn’t have a great variety. Onyx would’ve complained if everything on offer was ‘kid friendly.’”

Harper bit back a smile. “So the vegan truffle tarts are for Onyx?”

“The vegan truffle tarts are so I don’t have to hear Onyx whine all night. ”

It wasn’t the worst idea, and way better than letting Onyx plan the event like it was an opening at the gallery. “All right. Onyx better share though.” Harper paused, glancing around the office. Ash always kept it pristine, his files color-coded to match the wall calendar. “How are the new mentors doing?”

Ash swiveled in his chair, turning away from the screen. “Good. Stacy and Milo are ready for their first mentee, and Kara’s started running group sessions alongside Michelle.”

Harper nodded. Everyone was settling in great. The Center had grown beyond his wildest dreams. Five years ago, he’d never have pictured this.

He and Ash had created a sanctuary for witches from abusive covens, a place where they could come for help or to get away from bad situations. The Center did everything from being a first point of contact to helping with housing, accessing counseling, helping find employment, and rebuilding social networks and community after witches left their covens behind.

It was the kind of place Harper would have killed for when he’d left his coven. No one should have to go through what he did alone.

Since they opened, they’d helped witches from the wider Shearwater Landing area and across the state. Harper had even started planning a second center when one of their counselors moved and offered to head a new location.

It was work Harper had never seen himself doing. Somehow, he’d never imagined he could help people beyond what his power and potion mastery offered.

He’d loved brewing for Nico, but this felt like what he was meant to do. When Ash first suggested creating a place for witches to turn to when they needed help, Harper knew it was where he wanted to put his energy. Of course Nico had been one hundred percent on board and had helped almost as much as Ash to make their dream a reality .

“Dante texted, asking when we’d be home.” Harper ran a hand through Ash’s hair. “Are you almost done?”

“Yes, we can go.” Ash’s eyes fluttered closed. “He’ll forgive me for being late when he hears I ordered those crystal candies he likes.”

Harper massaged Ash’s scalp. “Our community nights are going to get a reputation if you keep ordering treats like that.”

He shrugged. “I bet you the candy doesn’t even make it to the event. Guaranteed, Dante will coincidentally be hanging around as it’s delivered, and it’ll disappear.”

Harper snorted. “You could just buy him some and bring it to the house. Save everyone the trouble.”

Ash’s eyes popped open. “And encourage him? Never.”

Harper tugged Ash’s hair, and he purred. “You ordered those fruit platters Michelle likes?”

“And garlic bread for Zack. The pizza order seemed adequate, so I left that alone.”

“Oh good.”

Ash snaked his arms around Harper’s waist. “Just be glad I haven’t insisted on cooking everything like I did for Thanksgiving.”

“You’re right. I am glad. That was way too much work.” The Center hosted holiday meals, usually potlucks, but last Thanksgiving, Ash had made everything himself.

Ash huffed. “I’m a demon. If I can’t manage to cook one meal for thirty-five people, then I’m losing my touch. Super speed in the kitchen really is a game changer.”

Harper shook his head. “I’m still surprised you’ve never cut a finger off.”

Ash gasped like he was offended, but amusement tickled the bond. “I’m very careful.”

Harper kissed him on the forehead. “Come on. Let’s not keep Dante and everyone waiting. ”

Ash shut down the computer and stood, taking off his shirt. “Why don’t we see how fast I can fly? I think I can beat Dante’s record.”

“Even carrying me?”

He grinned. “You better believe it, sweet.”

Harper laughed. “Okay, you’re on. But if you can’t beat Dante’s time, you have to admit it to him.”

Ash grumbled. “Fine, fine. But then all his gloating is on you. He’ll never know if I lie, so if you want to spare yourself…”

“Then you’ll just have to fly faster. I didn’t think it’d be a problem for you to beat him.”

“Correct answer.” Ash’s eyes flashed golden.

Harper grabbed his hand, joy sparking in his chest, down the bond, and in his mate. “I love you, Ash. Now take me home to our family.”

The End