Page 10 of Enchanting the Alpha (Mystic Hollow #1)
TEN
R omi hummed along with the gentle chiming of enchanted wind bells as she arranged copper mixing bowls across the café’s antique oak counters. Each bowl sparkled with different magical energies - one emanating the soothing scent of lavender dreams, another crackling with citrus happiness spells. The afternoon sunlight streamed through stained glass windows, casting rainbow patterns that danced across her workspace.
Whiskers perched on a floating shelf nearby, his tiny dragon wings spreading as he supervised the preparations with regal importance. A tendril of cinnamon-scented smoke curled from his nose as he sneezed, accidentally igniting a paper doily.
“Really?” Romi extinguished the small flame with a flick of her fingers. “You’re supposed to be helping, not creating more work.” Her familiar responded by puffing another smoke ring, this one shaped like a heart.
Tahlee, her newest staff member, emerged from the storage room balancing trays of pre-measured herbs and magical elements. “All set, Romi. The enchanted teas are infused and ready for- oh!” She stumbled slightly, sending a shower of sparkles into the air as protection spells activated to catch the falling items.
“Nice save, Tahlee.” Romi grinned, helping steady the trays. “Though I think we need about twenty percent less sparkle on those safety charms. We’re going for magical tea party, not disco inferno.”
The afternoon light caught her steaming coffee cup tattoo, making it shimmer with anticipation. She traced its outline, drawing comfort from its familiar warmth as she surveyed the space.
Floating lanterns bobbed near the ceiling, casting pools of soft light across carefully arranged workstations. Each table held an array of crafting supplies: ribbons woven with protection spells that changed color based on the maker’s mood, labels enchanted to display the drinker’s name in shifting calligraphy, and delicate bags that sealed themselves with a kiss of magic.
“This is either going to be brilliantly fun or spectacularly chaotic,” she muttered to Whiskers, who chirped in what she chose to interpret as agreement.
The bell above the door chimed - a melody that sparkled in the air. Xabir strode in, his commanding presence filling the room instantly. He wore a charcoal suit that fit his broad shoulders perfectly, with subtle silver threads woven through the fabric that caught the light like moonbeams. His hazel eyes met hers across the room, and Romi’s heart performed an acrobatic routine worthy of those enchanted sugar cubes.
“You’re early,” she managed, proud that her voice remained steady despite the flutter in her stomach.
“I wanted to see if you needed any assistance.” His deep voice carried hints of warmth that seemed reserved just for her. “Though it appears you have everything well in hand.”
“Almost everything.” Romi summoned her courage and crossed to where he stood. “But I could use some help testing these craft stations. You know, for quality control purposes.”
A hint of amusement touched his lips - not quite a smile, but progress. “Quality control?”
“Absolutely.” She guided him to a workstation, very aware of his solid presence beside her. “We can’t have the mighty Alpha of the Western Lupo Pack struggling with ribbon-tying spells, can we?”
“I assure you, I’m quite capable with my hands.” The low rumble in his voice sent shivers down her spine.
“Prove it.” Romi demonstrated the spell, her fingers dancing through the magical gestures perhaps a bit more elaborately than necessary. “Unless you’re afraid of a little crafting challenge?”
Something sparked in his eyes – a competitive spirit mixed with something deeper that made her pulse race. He moved closer, his chest nearly brushing her back as he reached around her to pick up a ribbon. His heat radiated through her thin blouse, and his scent - pine forests and mountain air with hints of alpha power - wrapped around her like an embrace.
“Show me again,” he murmured near her ear, and Romi momentarily forgot how to breathe.
The bell chimed again, breaking the moment as more guests began arriving. Madame Zephyrine glided in, her flowing purple robes adorned with constellation patterns that actually twinkled. The elder witch’s silver hair caught the light, creating an ethereal halo effect.
“Romi, your magic has truly transformed this place.” Madame Zephyrine’s eyes, deep violet and mysterious, took in the magical preparations - and the lingering proximity between Romi and Xabir. A knowing smile curved her lips. “It’s absolutely enchanting.”
“Thank you, Madame Zephyrine.” Romi stepped back from Xabir, though her skin still tingled where they’d nearly touched. “I’m thrilled you could join us.”
More guests filtered in - witches in elegant robes that shifted colors with their movements and shifters in tailored suits with subtle magical embellishments woven into the fabric. The air hummed with multiple types of magic mingling together, creating patterns of energy that danced just at the edge of visibility.
Clover swept in, her emerald eyes brightening at the festive atmosphere. She pulled Romi into a quick hug. “This looks amazing! Though your aura’s a bit...sparkly. Something to do with our distinguished alpha, perhaps?”
“Hush,” Romi whispered, fighting a blush. “Help me get everyone settled.”