Page 72 of The Purrfect Rival (Enchanted Falls #1)
SEVENTY-TWO
S ix months later, Kalyna stood on the library’s newly constructed steps, watching the diverse crowd gather for the grand reopening. The building had been transformed—expanded, reinforced, and redesigned to accommodate all shifter types.
In the central rotunda, protected by spells contributed by multiple clans, the restored fox heirloom glowed with healthy crimson light. Beside it stood artifacts from other clans, sharing magical space without conflict for the first time in centuries.
The ceremonial ribbon stretched across the entrance—red and gold intertwined, now recognized throughout Enchanted Falls as symbols of unity rather than division.
Rust appeared beside her, resplendent in formal attire bearing both lion crest and fox symbols. His fingers intertwined with hers, a casual intimacy that had become their natural state.
“Nervous?” he asked, noting her fidgeting.
“Excited,” she corrected. “Also wondering if Echo actually followed the speech protocol or if he’s plotting something Echo-like.”
Rust chuckled, the sound still surprising those who knew only his mayoral persona. “Hezron has him under surveillance. Though they’re more likely to conspire than constrain.”
The unlikely friendship between her brother and Rust’s lieutenant had become legendary—the prankster and the protector finding common ground in controlled chaos. Their project for the upcoming Unity Festival promised to be either brilliant or disastrous, possibly both.
The ceremony proceeded smoothly—speeches kept admirably brief, the ribbon cutting met with applause, tours generating genuine excitement across clan lines. Kalyna moved through the crowd, noting interactions that would have been unthinkable a year ago—lion and fox children playing between bookshelves, wolf and bear elders discussing fishing techniques, dragon and fae representatives collaborating on magical classification.
As twilight approached, she escaped to the library’s new rooftop garden for a moment’s respite. The view stretched across Enchanted Falls, revealing a town in transformation. New construction incorporated multiple clan styles. Gardens bloomed with previously segregated plants. Even street layouts had begun connecting rather than dividing neighborhoods.
Rust found her at the parapet, his arms encircling her waist from behind. She leaned back against his chest, savoring his warmth against the evening chill.
“Hiding from your admirers?”
“Taking a break,” she replied, covering his hands with hers. “It’s been... overwhelming.”
He nuzzled the claiming mark on her neck, sending a pleasant shiver down her spine. “Have I mentioned how magnificent you look tonight? That dress is giving me highly inappropriate thoughts at a public event.”
She laughed, turning in his arms. “Mayor Leonid! What would the council say?”
“That their lion-fox liaison is setting an excellent example of cross-clan appreciation.” His fingers traced her collarbone, dipping dangerously lower. “Very thorough appreciation.”
“Behave yourself,” she admonished, though heat pooled in her belly at his touch. “We have at least another hour of official duties.”
“An hour too long.” His lips brushed her ear. “I’ve been watching you work the crowd all evening, charming everyone with that brilliant mind and fox grace. Do you have any idea what that does to me?”
“I might have some idea.” She pressed closer, feeling exactly what effect she had on him. “Though I’d welcome a detailed explanation later.”
His growl vibrated against her neck. “How much would our reputations suffer if the guests of honor disappeared before the closing remarks?”
“Catastrophically.” She pushed against his chest with mock severity. “Patience, Mayor. Good things come to those who wait.”
“I’ve waited two centuries for you,” he reminded her, golden eyes darkening with intent. “My patience has limits.”
The evening stretched endlessly as they fulfilled their official duties—accepting congratulations, discussing future collaborations, presenting united leadership to clans still adjusting to new dynamics. Throughout it all, Rust maintained in physical contact—a hand at her waist, fingers brushing hers, casual touches that grew increasingly deliberate as the night progressed.
By the time the last guests departed, tension hummed between them like a tangible force. Kalyna locked the library doors, turning to find Rust watching her with predatory focus.
“Finally,” he murmured, stalking toward her with leonine grace. “I thought they’d never leave.”
“The ceremony was a success,” she said, backing away playfully. “Worth the wait, wouldn’t you say?”
“I can think of something else worth waiting for.” He matched her retreat step for step, a dangerous smile playing on his lips. “Something involving significantly fewer clothes.”
“Mayor Leonid!” She pressed a hand to her chest in mock scandal. “Are you suggesting improper activities in my newly renovated library?”
“I’m suggesting improper activities wherever I can get you alone.” He lunged suddenly, catching her around the waist. “Starting now.”
Before she could respond, he hoisted her over his shoulder in a smooth motion that knocked the breath from her lungs.
“Rust!” she squealed, fox dignity thoroughly compromised. “What do you think you’re doing?”
“Taking my mate home,” he answered matter-of-factly, striding toward the exit with her still draped across his shoulder. “Where I plan to show her exactly how much I appreciate her diplomatic skills, organizational talents, and this particular dress that’s been tormenting me all evening.”
She should have been outraged at the caveman display. Instead, her fox thrilled at the possessive gesture, heat flooding her body at the promise in his voice.
“This is completely undignified,” she protested halfheartedly, not bothering to struggle. “What if someone sees?”
“Then they’ll know exactly who you belong to.” His hand delivered a playful smack to her backside. “Any objections, Archivist Foxworthy?”
She grinned, invisible to him from her upside-down position. “Just one—you’re taking too long to get me home.”
His answering laugh echoed through the empty square as he carried her toward their shared future—a perfect blend of fox mischief and lion strength, united in purpose and, most importantly, in love.