Page 27 of Magic and Muffins

“Cross?” I asked.

“I already had a bite this morning.”

I felt the flush as it heated my skin. Thankfully, the books occupied Vena too much for her to notice. Anchor did, though, and I wondered if his overly sensitive nose had already picked up my morning activities. Not that I cared when it had been so perfect.

Taking the casserole and other ingredients I needed from the refrigerator, I set to work.

As I was plating everything, my phone dinged.

“Group text from Miles,” Vena said. “They are on their way to the mountain.”

“Tell them to stay safe and give us lots of updates.” I carried two plates over for Vena and Anchor, who had joined her at the table.

“Too bad I couldn’t go,” Vena said. “I still haven’t seen inside the mountain yet. What’s it like?”

“Lots of stairs,” I answered, retrieving my plate and sitting beside Cross.

“That’s all you give me? Stairs?”

“Lots of precious metals and gemstones too.”

Vena sighed. “I need more. How about a road trip and meet them there?”

I shook my head. “This is Miles’ apology visit. Fewer people will be better.”

“But King Curran doesn’t blame Miles.”

“Correct. But it doesn’t change the fact that he has to see his son’s murderer, whether innocent or not. Let Miles do his thing. He can apologize and research without having to worry about you.”

“You say it like I’d get into trouble.”

I eyed her. So did the two men at the table.

Vena looked at us and sighed. “Fine. I won’t go to the mountain.”

We both knew she would go someday soon, though. Vena was tenacious like that.

After I cleaned up breakfast, I toyed with a few experimental recipes for Bites and Delights. Since Vena was there, we also discussed making the business’ name official and what kind of signage we wanted out front.

While Vena and Anchor went downstairs to visualize the book and decor placement, Cross worked on the business management side of things, and I baked. It felt surreal but in the most amazing way. We all had our strengths and leaned into them to benefit each other.

Barely an hour later, Vena came barreling up the stairs.

“Check this out,” she said, shoving her phone at me.

A video of a press conference was playing. A lady I didn’t know stood at a podium.

“The Department of Otherworld Security is responsible for the peaceful coexistence between otherworlder races and humans,” the lady said. “Since many races have abilities we humans cannot match, the DOS has, in the past, asked for assistance from a few of the otherworld races, such as the fae, werewolves, and dwarves. This includes the detection and removal of an increasing vampire threat.

“The DOS is aware of the misinformation being disseminated regarding the conversions of humans into vampires. The process is not simple and only has a five to ten percent survival rate. The recent discovery of failed conversion dumping grounds has necessitated DOS action. To protect our citizens, the DOS recruited assistance from our local werewolves to help find and eliminate the increasing vampire population.

“If you or a loved one were converted without permission, please contact the DOS, and the newly converted will be provided amnesty from the vampire cleanse efforts.”

She looked up from her speech and added, “We’re here to protect the innocent in all forms. But newly converted vampires are dangerous. If a loved one has been converted, they may not be the same person you remember. Do not engage, and call for help immediately.”

The video ended as reporters started calling out questions.

“Did you see him?” Vena asked.

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