Page 38 of Enchanting the Alpha (Mystic Hollow #1)

THIRTY-EIGHT

R omi’s magic exploded outward in a shower of silver sparks, making the nearby lanterns pulse like captured supernovas.

When they finally broke apart, his eyes had gone wolf-gold around the edges. “I’ve wanted to do that all night.”

“Just tonight?” She couldn’t resist teasing, even as she smoothed his lapels where her fingers had clutched them.

His growl sent delicious shivers down her spine. “You know exactly how long I’ve wanted you.”

Before she could respond, a pointed throat-clearing interrupted them. They turned to find all four elders watching with varying degrees of amusement.

“Don’t mind us,” Felix sang out. “Just gathering material for my epic romance saga. I’m thinking of calling it ‘The Alpha’s Enchantment’ – or maybe ‘Love’s Magical Moon’.”

“The historical significance cannot be overlooked,” Bella added, though her eyes twinkled. “The first time in over a century that a pack alpha has officially courted a witch.”

“The stars are particularly aligned for such a union,” Madame Zephyrine said.

Neve’s eyes danced with mischief. “Indeed. Though perhaps some alignments are more... personal than astronomical.”

“And that’s our cue to find more champagne,” Romi said quickly before Felix could start reciting verses. She tugged Xabir toward another secluded spot, their laughter mingling in the night air.

The party continued around them in a swirl of music and magic, but Romi found herself caring less about playing hostess and more about stealing quiet moments with Xabir. Each dance brought them closer, each shared smile felt more intimate. Their gifts sat warm in their pockets – tangible reminders of how well they understood each other, how naturally they fit together.

Near midnight, they claimed another private nook in the garden. The party showed no signs of winding down – if anything, the mixing of communities had energized everyone. Thane and Maya had progressed to sharing what appeared to be increasingly outrageous stories, while Clover and Oakes had moved their intense discussion to a more private corner.

“Quite a success,” Xabir said, offering her a glass of champagne. His other hand settled possessively at her waist, keeping her close.

“Mmm.” She leaned into him, savoring his warmth. “Though I notice you didn’t rush to rescue Arlo from his dance floor mishaps.”

“He’ll survive.” Xabir pressed a kiss to her temple. “I had more interesting concerns.”

“Like what?”

His smile held heat and promise. “Making sure everyone knows exactly who my heart belongs to.”

Her magic sparked at his words, making the nearby roses burst into sudden bloom. “Flirt.”

“For you? Absolutely,” he grinned, turning her to face him fully. “I really like you, Romi Weir. My enchanting, impossible, perfect witch.”

Joy burst through her chest like fireworks. “I really like you too.” She rose on tiptoe to kiss him softly. “My protective, thoughtful, absolutely incredible alpha.”

Above them, the enchanted lanterns shifted into a shower of falling stars as if the sky itself celebrated their connection. For once, Romi didn’t try to rein in her magic’s romantic tendencies.

Some moments deserved all the sparkle in the world.