Page 106 of Demon's Mate
Harper’s eyes widened. “Even if it meant you didn’t have to be alone?”
“No, because I got through it. And it brought me here.”
“I don’t know if I’d say the same.” Harper looked away. “I’d trade the time with my coven if I could.”
“Of course.” Ash let Harper’s sadness find a home in his chest. “I’d wish it away for you too.”
“But we don’t have to. I can feel how well you understand me, and loneliness is part of that. That’s what I was trying to say. It’s something we shared while we were apart, which makes it easier to move on and start a new life with you.”
Ash cupped Harper’s cheek, his chest expanding. He felt more alive than he ever had. “I can’t wait to see the man you become, Harper, and who I become with you. Together, we’re going to thrive, and for the first time in a long time, I’m looking forward to my eternal existence.”
Ash sank to his knees. “Hold on, sweet. I’m going to take care of you.”
EPILOGUE
HARPER
Ten years later.
Harper openedthe Center’s front door and stepped into the dark foyer. A light shone in the hall beyond. He knew he’d find his mate here, not just because of the bond.
“You’re supposed to be closed for the night,” Harper called.
“I just have to finish one more thing,” Ash shouted back.
Harper entered the small office. “What are you doing?”
Ash pointed to the computer. “I just needed to order a few extra things for the community night next week.”
Harper inspected the screen. “More food?” He rolled his eyes, pretending to be annoyed, even though he knew Ash could feel how warm and gooey he was inside.
“Just a little more food. We didn’t have a great variety. Onyx would’ve complained if everything on offer was ‘kid friendly.’”
Harper bit back a smile. “So the vegan truffle tarts are for Onyx?”
“The vegan truffle tarts are so I don’t have to hear Onyx whine all night.”
It wasn’t the worst idea, and way better than letting Onyx plan the event like it was an opening at the gallery. “All right. Onyx better share though.” Harper paused, glancing around the office. Ash always kept it pristine, his files color-coded to match the wall calendar. “How are the new mentors doing?”
Ash swiveled in his chair, turning away from the screen. “Good. Stacy and Milo are ready for their first mentee, and Kara’s started running group sessions alongside Michelle.”
Harper nodded. Everyone was settling in great. The Center had grown beyond his wildest dreams. Five years ago, he’d never have pictured this.
He and Ash had created a sanctuary for witches from abusive covens, a place where they could come for help or to get away from bad situations. The Center did everything from being a first point of contact to helping with housing, accessing counseling, helping find employment, and rebuilding social networks and community after witches left their covens behind.
It was the kind of place Harper would have killed for when he’d left his coven. No one should have to go through what he did alone.
Since they opened, they’d helped witches from the wider Shearwater Landing area and across the state. Harper had even started planning a second center when one of their counselors moved and offered to head a new location.
It was work Harper had never seen himself doing. Somehow, he’d never imagined he could help people beyond what his power and potion mastery offered.
He’d loved brewing for Nico, but this felt like what he was meant to do. When Ash first suggested creating a place for witches to turn to when they needed help, Harper knew it was where he wanted to put his energy. Of course Nico had been one hundred percent on board and had helped almost as much as Ash to make their dream a reality.
“Dante texted, asking when we’d be home.” Harper ran a hand through Ash’s hair. “Are you almost done?”
“Yes, we can go.” Ash’s eyes fluttered closed. “He’ll forgive me for being late when he hears I ordered those crystal candies he likes.”
Harper massaged Ash’s scalp. “Our community nights are going to get a reputation if you keep ordering treats like that.”
