Epilogue

AMBER

I lay in Xavier's arms, nestled in the cozy bed of his basement lair beneath the library. My fingers traced lazy patterns across his chest as I marveled at the warmth of his skin.

"You feel warmer than before," I murmured, snuggling closer.

Xavier's chest rumbled with a soft chuckle. "That's because I'm not stone anymore," he said, his arms tightening around me.

I tilted my head to look up at him, still in awe of the changes we'd both gone through. "What happens now?" I asked, a mix of excitement and uncertainty in my voice.

Xavier's eyes met mine, filled with love and a newfound peace. "Now, I still protect the library and its knowledge," he explained, "but I'm not a statue unless I choose to be."

The idea of Xavier having that freedom, after centuries of being bound by the curse, made my heart swell with joy.

He held me close, and I sensed he wanted to say something. "What is it, Xavier? "

"Do you regret your choice? You may not leave Beastly Falls, not until the curse falls for everyone, if it ever does. You will lose your family, your friends."

I rolled onto my stomach and proposed my chin on his chest. "Xavier, you're worth it. What I have found with you and Beastly Falls is worth everything outside of here. Besides, I'm convinced that the curse is failing. I think the town wants us to find our mates. I think the town feels as trapped as you all do and is ready to open up again."

Xavier stroked a hand up my back, a small smile playing about his lips. "Maybe you're right, Amber. The town seemed sad, lonely. I hope you're right and the curse breaks soon. Everyone deserves this kind of happiness."

I rested my head on his chest, loving the feel of his heart beating under my cheek. "Now what do we do?"

He stroked my hair, his fingers combing through the long strands. "Now, Amber, we live."

Those simple words held so much promise. We had overcome curses, faced our fears, and found each other against all odds. As I lay there in Xavier's arms, surrounded by the comforting scent of old books and the warmth of our new bond, I felt a sense of belonging I'd never known before.

"We live," I echoed softly, lifting to kiss him.

Whatever challenges the future might hold, whatever adventures awaited us in Beastly Falls, I knew we'd face them together. Our story was just beginning, and I couldn't wait to see where it would lead.

W ant more light paranormal romance? Check out Swipe for Orcs , a small town Romeo and Juliet, matchmaker story that vaguely resembles My Big Fat Greek Wedding - With Orcs! Read on for a sample!!