Page 20 of The Gargoyle and the Songbird

Six days. It’s only been six days since I started this job, and already this infuriating female is getting under my skin in ways I can’t afford.

Ecco flits from shop to shop with unbridled enthusiasm, her blue hair shimmering like a homing beacon amidst the crowd. I trail behind, shoulders stiff.

This much carefree joy and casual magic in one place is foreign to me. In the Grigori lands, power is wielded with precision and purpose, not frivolity.

“Everything at home is just so charming,” Ecco sighs happily, twirling in a circle. She grins as she catches my eye. “Loosen up, Graeme! Let yourself enjoy the magic a little.”

I grunt noncommittally, scanning our surroundings for potential threats.

Ecco’s character is starting to make more sense, growing up in a whimsical haven like this. It explains her blasé attitude towards her own safety. She’s never had to be on guard, not in this tiny town where everyone knows everybody else.

As we continue, Ecco regales me with childhood stories that make my head spin.

“...And then there was the time I accidentally charmed half the town with a siren’s love song when I was learning to control my magic. Had a horde of befuddled admirers following me around for a week before the spell wore off!”

She laughs, clearly finding the memory amusing.

I, on the other hand, can barely fathom it. In the Grigori clan, such a loss of control would be swiftly and harshly punished. Perfection is demanded, weakness rooted out.

There is no room for lighthearted chaos.

We stop at The Enchanted Bean, a cozy coffee shop with a line spilling out the door. The rich aroma of coffee fills the air.

“You’ve got to try their iced mochas,” Ecco insists. “They’re divine.”

“I don’t eat—or drink—sweets,” I say flatly. Sugary indulgences dull the senses and slow the reflexes.

She pouts at me. “You’re no fun. But even grumps need caffeine.”

Before I can protest, Ecco grabs my hand and pulls me into line. My pulse kicks up at the contact, skin tingling where her fingers curve around mine. I should pull away, maintain professional distance. But… I don’t.

The slow slide of my control is almost as terrifying as it is thrilling.

At the counter, Ecco greets the pixie barista like an old friend, launching into animated chatter as she places our order. I stand awkwardly to the side, an outsider in their cozy camaraderie.

“Graeme, this is Lilybell. We went to school together,” Ecco says, her smile warm and inclusive. “Lilybell, meet Graeme, my new bodyguard.”

Lilybell slowly raises an eyebrow as she looks me over. “Well, aren’t you a tall drink of water? I bet you could bench press a boulder.”

I nod stiffly, unsure how to respond to the playful banter. This easy, lighthearted connection is foreign to me.

Ecco places our order, and within moments, Lilybell is sliding two mugs across the counter. “One Magical Mocha for you, and a brew for your strapping companion.”

I eye the dark liquid warily. “What’s in it?”

Lilybell winks. “A special blend for our gargoyle customers. Guaranteed to put some pep in your step.”

I take a cautious sip and am surprised by the rich, earthy flavor. It’s strong, with a hint of something smoky and ancient. Warmth spreads through my chest, invigorating me from the inside out.

“Not bad,” I grudgingly admit, and Lilybell beams.

As we exit the cafe, I find myself lost in thought. Elderberry Falls is like something out of a storybook—laughing childrenchasing enchanted bubbles, couples strolling hand in hand, magical beings of all kinds and the odd human, all mingling in easy harmony.

What would it have been like, to grow up in a place like this? Would I be different?

I push the thoughts away. There’s no use dwelling on what-ifs. I am who I am, shaped by necessity and legacy. To wish otherwise is a foolish sentiment.

We arrive at a quaint dress shop, the window displaying gowns of shimmering enchanted fabrics. Ecco practically vibrates with excitement as she spots Mariah waiting inside. They’re meeting up for the final bridal and bridesmaid dress fittings before the wedding.

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