Without hesitation, Tabitha approached the animal, her heart filled with compassion. Using her magic, she reached out to the dog, establishing a connection and communicating a sense of safety and comfort. The dog’s tail began to wag, and it nuzzled against Tabitha’s hand, seeking affection.
Bram watched in admiration as Tabitha used her powers to locate the dog’s owner, a local artisan known for his intricate woodcarvings. They made their way to the artisan’s workshop, where a tearful reunion took place. The grateful owner, overwhelmed with joy, insisted on gifting Tabitha a handmade bracelet as a token of his appreciation.
“This bracelet is enchanted,” he explained. “It’s designed to aid in emotional stability and promote inner peace. May it bring you comfort and balance in times of need.”
Tabitha accepted the gift with a heartfelt thank you, feeling touched by the artisan’s generosity and the unexpected kindness that seemed to permeate Whispering Pines.
As they continued their walk through town, Bram’s eyes lit up with excitement. “You know what would make this day even better? A visit to Molly’s bakery. Her honey buns are the stuff of legends.”
Tabitha laughed, charmed by Bram’s enthusiasm. “Lead the way, then. I can’t resist a good honeybun.”
The moment they stepped into Molly’s bakery, the aroma of freshly baked goods and the warmth of the ovens enveloped them. Molly, a cheerful and voluptuous woman with a mane of curly red hair, greeted them with a wide smile.
“Bram, my favorite customer. And who’s this lovely lady you’ve brought with you?”
Bram made the introductions, and Tabitha found herself instantly at ease in Molly’s presence. The baker’s bubbly personality and infectious laughter filled the room, and soon they were engaged in a lively conversation about the joys of baking and the magic of a well-crafted pastry.
When Bram finally convinced Tabitha to try one of Molly’s famous honeybuns, she took a tentative bite, and her eyes widened in delight. The pastry was a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, the honey glaze melting on her tongue and the soft, fluffy dough practically dissolving in her mouth.
“Oh my goodness,” Tabitha moaned, savoring every bite. “These are incredible, Molly. I can see why Bram raves about them.”
Bram grinned, clearly pleased with Tabitha’s reaction. “I told you they were the best in town.”
Molly beamed with pride, her cheeks flushed with joy. “You two are too kind. Here, let me pack up a box for you to take home. Consider it a welcome gift, Tabitha.”
With a box of honeybuns in hand and their hearts filled with happiness, Tabitha and Bram made their way to the town’s charming little bridge. The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the water and bathing everything in a soft, ethereal light.
They settled on a bench, enjoying a moment of peaceful companionship as they sipped on steaming cups of coffee and indulged in the delectable honeybuns. Tabitha found herself reflecting on the day’s events—the magical mishaps, the unexpected support from Celeste and Luna, and the kindness she had encountered at every turn.
But most of all, her thoughts kept drifting back to Bram. The way he had been there for her, offering comfort and understanding when she needed it most. The way his presence made her feel safe and cherished even in the midst of her magical struggles.
As they sat enjoying the tranquility of the evening, Tabitha couldn’t deny the growing feelings she had for Bram. He was more than just a handsome face and a charming personality. There was a genuine connection between them, a bond that went beyond their fake relationship facade.
But with that realization came a flicker of apprehension. What would happen when their arrangement came to an end? Would she be able to walk away from the feelings that had taken root in her heart?
Tabitha pushed those thoughts aside for the moment, choosing instead to savor the peace and contentment of the present. She had made progress with her magic today, and she had Bram to thank for his unwavering support.
As the sun dipped below the horizon and the stars began to twinkle in the sky, Tabitha knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, she had found a place where she belonged. Whispering Pines with its enchanting charm and the warmth of its people had become more than just a temporary stop on her journey.
It had become a place she could call home.
EIGHT
It was time for their first romantic date out on the town. People needed to see Bram romancing her. She could handle him being romantic, right? She hoped so.
The soft glow of the setting sun bathed the quaint Italian bistro in a warm, inviting light as Bram and Tabitha stepped inside. The aroma of garlic, tomatoes, and fresh herbs wafted through the air, instantly transporting Tabitha back to the charming trattorias she had visited during her travels to Italy.
Bram pulled out a chair for her before settling into his own seat. “I’ve been looking forward to this all day,” he said, his eyes sparkling with genuine interest. “So, I remember you saying Italy is one of your favorite places to travel. What do you love most about their cuisine?”
Tabitha’s face lit up. “Oh, where do I even begin? The pasta in Italy is simply divine. I could live on carbonara and cacio e pepe alone.” She closed her eyes for a moment, a dreamy smile on her lips. “The way the creamy sauce coats every strand of perfectly al dente pasta, and the burst of flavor from the pancetta and Pecorino Romano cheese—it’s pure bliss.”
Bram chuckled, leaning in closer. “The way you describe it makes me want to hop on a plane to Italy right now.”
“Trust me, it’s worth the trip.” Tabitha grinned. “And don’t even get me started on the gelato. I swear, I’ve never tasted anything so creamy and indulgent.”
As they chatted, the waiter arrived with a basket of warm crusty bread and a carafe of robust red wine. Tabitha tore off a piece of bread, the crisp crust giving way to the soft, fluffy interior. She dipped it in the olive oil, savoring the rich, fruity flavor.
“You look like you really like that.”
