Epilogue

Forrest

I couldn't believe my eyes as I gazed out the front door. The line snaked down Main Street, full of familiar faces from around town. Old Bob from the hardware store was there, chatting animatedly with Mr. Orson about that season's crops. Even Mr. Cyrus had hobbled out to join the crowd.

Not to mention the entire coven of witches who happened to be attendees.

In just a few, short months, Cider Falls had transformed from a simple residence into something far greater. It was a refuge for my soul, intimately woven into the very fabric of my being. Within its borders lay my shelter from the world. It was more than just a town. It was my home .

My palms were sweaty as I gripped the new door handle. With a deep breath to steady myself, I swung it open at precisely five o'clock. A cheer erupted from the waiting throng, drowning out the sound of my pounding heart. The crowd filed in eagerly, their eyes widening in awe as they took in the rows of high-definition TVs lining the walls.

"Welcome to The Main Street Tavern!" I called out, my voice cracking slightly with emotion. Months of worry led to that moment. The crowd cheered in response to my words. Their enthusiasm for my new business venture was greatly appreciated.

"Look at this turnout!" Sienna beamed as she joined my side.

"I know," I replied, unable to keep the grin off my face. "I can't believe it."

"Well, believe it," Sienna said, squeezing my arm reassuringly. "They're all here to support you ."

I nodded, my eyes scanning the room. The sports memorabilia I'd collected over the years adorned the walls, giving the space a familiar feel. Patrons were already settling into their tables and booths, menus in hand .

"First round's on the house!" I announced, earning another cheer from the crowd.

My two bartenders sprung into action, pouring drinks and sliding them across the polished oak bar.

"This is the best hard apple cider I've ever had," Mike announced as he approached with his wife, Karen. "Congratulations!"

"Congratulations, Forrest!" Karen chimed in.

With gratefulness shining through my being, I thanked the couple for their kind words. The bar had been a dream of mine for years, and seeing it come to life before my very eyes felt surreal. As the couple moved on to mingle with other guests, I surveyed the room. Residents of the small town occupied every table. They had shown up in droves to support me on the momentous occasion.

And it was something I'd never forget.

"You turned your dream into a reality," Sienna whispered.

"No, we turned it into a reality," I corrected her, wrapping my arm around her waist. "I couldn't have done this without you."

She was by my side throughout the process, encouraging me on the nights when the stress became too much for me to handle. She was my rock, my solid source of strength.

"Yes, you could," she said. "Forrest, I'm so proud of you."

The heavy wooden door of the bar swung open, allowing a rush of frigid winter air to flood the cozy interior. The dim light flickered and danced against the walls as a tall figure in a dark coat entered, their footsteps echoing on the creaky floorboards. All eyes turned to take in the newcomer.

To my surprise, I recognized my former roommate, Everett, pushing his way through the throng of patrons towards me. His tall frame seemed larger than life in the small space.

"How did he—"

"I might have sent him an invitation."

"But how—"

"A witch has her ways," she whispered.

"Forrest!" Everett's deep voice boomed across the bar.

"Hey!" I greeted him. "Thanks for coming, man! "

Everett strode over, his imposing frame casting a shadow across our table. He clapped a hand on my shoulder. "As soon as Sienna told me, I knew I couldn't miss it," he grinned. "Congratulations, man! You're living the dream in this town."

Living the dream.

That was exactly what I was doing in Cider Falls.