Page 39 of Kissing Potions and Elves (Oakvale Ever After #1)

ISOBEL

I t’s been two days since we returned from the ball, and I still haven’t gathered the courage to tell Lyrion about my feelings.

He’s in the study talking to Rhystan, so I decide to slip into the kitchen for some tea. I add a pinch of lavender into the pot, hoping it’ll settle my racing thoughts. But tonight, it feels as if nothing could possibly calm the storm swirling within.

This morning, Lyrion came with me to the café, as he always does. But when we walked home this evening, we tested the proximity spell again. And this time, we both felt nothing when we were parted. No discomfort at all.

So, it seems that the proximity part of the spell has finally worn off. Lyrion kissed me twice today, so I don’t think the kissing effect is gone, but it’s only a matter of time before it is.

And when this invisible tether of magic binding us together finally dissipates, what will happen to the closeness we’ve shared?

What if Lyrion’s gentle smiles, the warmth of his hands, and the quiet affection I’ve felt these past few weeks were only because of the potion? My stomach clenches painfully at the thought. What if the tenderness in his eyes was nothing more than magic compelling him?

As I stare down at the swirling tea leaves, my vision blurs with unshed tears.

“Isobel?” Hilda’s voice pulls me from my troubled thoughts. “My dear, what’s wrong? You look upset.”

“I’m fine,” I lie. “Just a bit tired.”

“Come now.” Hilda guides me to the table and takes a seat across from me. “I’ve a mind for these things, and I can tell something is bothering you.” She gives me a motherly look. “Tell me what weighs on your heart, and perhaps I can help.”

“We had a bit of good fortune today.” I force a smile, trying to remain positive. “The proximity spell seems to be gone.”

“That must be a relief,” Hilda replies. “No more terrible headaches or dizziness sounds like a good thing.”

I nod.

“Is there something else?” she gently probes.

“I just… I suppose it’s time Errol and I left.” I struggle to push down my sadness. “I was thinking I should probably pack our things so we can return to our apartment tomorrow.”

“There’s no need to rush,” she assures me. “It’s a joy having you here.”

“Thank you, but there’s not really a reason for us to stay.” My chest tightens. “Not with the spell dissipating. Besides, I’m sure Lyrion will be glad to be able to get back to his work… to have his life return to normal.”

“I wouldn’t be so sure about that,” Hilda replies enigmatically. “Does he know you’re planning to leave tomorrow?”

I shake my head. “I figured I’d tell him in the morning.”

“Well, I’m going to miss you when you’re gone.

” Hilda rests her hand atop mine, squeezing it gently.

She gestures to the doors that lead to the garden.

“It’s a lovely night. Before you pack, I think we should take advantage of it.

What do you say?” She smiles. “Why don’t you go on outside and I’ll finish up in here.

I’ll meet you out there shortly and we can enjoy the evening. ”

“Oh, I—” I’m not sure what to say. If Hilda has things to do, I don’t want to take up her time. “It’s alright. It’s late. Perhaps I should just go up to my room.”

“It’s not that late,” she insists. “Just go on outside. The fresh air will do you good, and I’ll join you in a bit.”

“Alright.”

With a grateful nod, I carry my tea outside, stepping into the moonlit gardens. The night air is cool, scented with the delicate perfume of blooming moonflowers. Above, the sky is a breathtaking tapestry of glittering stars.

I settle on the familiar wooden bench beneath the cherry tree, my fingers gripping the warm teacup as my mind echoes with a dozen quiet fears and tender hopes.

As I sit alone, staring up at the endless stars, a quiet ache takes hold in my chest as I think of Lyrion. The manor looms behind me, beautiful but somehow distant, a constant reminder of a world I’ll never truly belong to.

Stars, I feel so utterly ridiculous. It’s not as if this were ever a permanent situation. And even though I’ve fallen for my broody Elf, it doesn’t mean he feels the same. I’ve seen elegant Elven ladies with their perfect manners and flawless beauty. How could I possibly compare?

I’m just a girl who works in a café, a human who can barely read and has no magic.

Lyrion deserves someone who fits seamlessly into his world. Someone who won’t embarrass him with awkward manners and stupid mistakes.

He’s claimed my heart, whether he knows it or not. I want so badly to belong to him, and to this beautiful, enchanting world of his. But no matter how deeply I wish for it, I’ll never truly fit into his life.

Tears sting my eyes as I realize now how foolish I was to ever think that I could.

So, it’s best that I leave before the magic between us completely fades. I’d rather go now and save him the trouble of sending me away.