Chapter 3

THREE

S unlight streamed through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the hotel room as Arden stirred from his slumber. He reached out instinctively, seeking the warmth of Mari's body, but his hand met only cold, rumpled sheets. Confused, he sat up, blinking away the remnants of sleep as he scanned the room for any sign of her.

Her lavender scent lingered in the air, a tantalizing reminder of their passionate night together. Arden inhaled deeply, a smile tugging at his lips as memories of her soft skin and enticing curves flooded his mind. He couldn't recall the last time he'd felt such a strong connection with a woman, especially considering they'd only just met.

Mate. Mate. Mate!

He sucked a breath deep. He'd been ignoring his wolf's claim since he laid eyes on her that Mari was his mate. But now he knew for sure she was the one.

Intrigued by Mari's absence, Arden climbed out of bed, stretching his muscular frame as he padded toward the bathroom. He had to head back to Whispering Pines today, but thoughts of Mari accompanied him as he went about his morning routine. Her melodic laughter and the way her hazel eyes sparkled with mischief played on a loop in his mind, refusing to be ignored.

With renewed energy, Arden showered and donned his deputy sheriff uniform, the khaki fabric stretching across his broad shoulders as he adjusted his badge. Despite his best efforts to focus on the day ahead, his mind continually drifted back to Mari, wondering how he could find her without coming across as overly eager.

The drive back to Whispering Pines was uneventful, the rural landscape blurring past as Arden's thoughts remained occupied by a certain brunette witch. As he pulled into the sheriff's office parking lot, he took a deep breath, mentally preparing himself for the day's duties.

"Morning, Arden," Sheriff Reed Mallory greeted him as he entered the building, his deep voice cutting through the low hum of activity.

Arden nodded in response, a polite smile on his face. "Morning, Sheriff. What's on the agenda for today?"

Reed handed him a stack of papers, his expression serious. "Patrol. Same as usual."

"You got it, boss," Arden replied, tucking the papers under his arm as he headed toward the door.

The morning air was crisp and invigorating as Arden stepped onto the cobblestone streets of Whispering Pines. He inhaled deeply, savoring the scent of freshly baked bread wafting from the nearby Bewitched Bakery. As if on cue, his stomach rumbled, reminding him that he'd skipped breakfast in his haste to get back to town.

Arden made his way to the bakery, hoping to grab a quick bite. As he approached the colorful storefront, he spotted Molly Hues, the bakery's owner and resident gossip, arranging a display of mouthwatering pastries in the window.

"Good morning, Molly," Arden called out, flashing her a charming smile as he entered the bakery.

Molly looked up, her face lighting up with recognition. "Well, if it isn't our dashing deputy. What brings you in so early, Arden?"

"Just looking for a little sustenance before I start my patrol," he replied, eyeing the array of baked goods hungrily. "Anything you recommend?"

"Oh, you simply must try the cinnamon rolls," Molly gushed, already plating one for him. "They're my sister's recipe. Speaking of Mari, did I tell you she's moving to Whispering Pines? She's opening a specialty dessert shop right here in town!"

Arden's heart skipped a beat at the mention of that name, but he maintained a neutral expression. Could they be one and the same person? Probably just wishful thinking. "Is that so? I had no idea."

Molly nodded enthusiastically, handing him the warm cinnamon roll. "Oh, yes! She's been so busy getting everything arranged to open quickly. Today, she's finally setting up the store. I'm sure she could use a hand with some of the heavy lifting, if you know what I mean?" She winked conspiratorially, and Arden fought the urge to chuckle.

"I'd be happy to lend a hand," he offered, taking a bite of the gooey, delicious pastry. "Just let me know when and where."

As Arden savored the cinnamon roll, he couldn't help but feel a spark of excitement hoping this was his Mari. He listened attentively as Molly chattered on about her sister's plans, trying to glean as much information as possible without seeming too eager.

Their conversation was interrupted by a commotion outside the bakery. Arden quickly set down his plate, his senses on high alert as he rushed to investigate.

Outside on the sidewalk, Venus Brighton the local hair stylist and Noah Lobo the town's barber, argued.

"This is outrageous! She's been stealing my customers!" Noah said.

Venus stomped her foot. "Nonsense! Your trims look like mullets. It's why my hair salon is thriving!"

Arden lifted his hands. "Venus, Noah, let's take a breath. What seems to be the issue?"

Noah huffed. "She's undercutting my prices! It's unfair competition."

Venus snorted. "I have a right to set my own prices. Besides, my stylistic talents are much better than yours."

"Men don't want style," Noah barked. "They want short hair they can shake in the shower and be done with it."

Venus's eyes narrowed. "Just like you dogs shake off water?—"

"Hey, now," Arden stepped in, "no name calling. We are friendly shifters even if one of you is a wolf and the other a tiger. Let's find a compromise. Perhaps a joint promotion?"

Venus frowned. "A joint promotion? Why would I want that?"

Noah tapped his chin with his forefinger. "It could attract more customers to both our shops."

"Exactly." Arden nodded. "We're a community. Let's work together, not against each other."

Venus huffed, but her expression said something else. "Fine. But only for a week."

"Agreed. And no more stealing my customers."

Arden sighed to himself. He'd take what he could get. "Deal. Now, let's shake on it."

As the situation resolved itself, Arden couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in his role as a protector of Whispering Pines. He loved this quirky little town and the eclectic mix of supernatural beings that called it home.

With the disturbance handled, Arden resumed his patrol, his thoughts once again drifting to Mari. He wondered what it would be like if she really did move to Whispering Pines. Would they date or go directly into matehood? Who would move into whose house?

Lost in thought, Arden almost didn't notice the figure struggling with a large box across the street. As he drew closer, his heart nearly stopped when he realized it was none other than his Mari herself.

Their eyes met, a flicker of recognition and surprise passing between them. Mari's cheeks flushed a delicate pink, no doubt remembering their passionate night together while Arden couldn't help but grin, delighted by the unexpected reunion.

Without hesitation, he crossed the street, his long strides eating up the distance between them. "Need a hand with that?" he asked, his deep voice laced with a hint of playfulness.

Mari bit her lip, a gesture that sent a jolt of desire through Arden's body. "I... yes, thank you," she replied, her voice soft and slightly breathless.

Arden easily hefted the box, marveling at the way Mari's slender frame had belied her strength the night before. As they walked toward her new storefront, he couldn't help but steal glances at her, drinking in the sight of her like a man parched.

"So, I hear you're setting up shop here in Whispering Pines," he commented, breaking the silence between them.

Mari nodded, tucking a stray lock of hair behind her ear. "Yes, I'm opening a pastry shop specializing in desserts. It's a big step, but I'm excited about this new chapter in my life."

"Well, I'm happy to welcome you to our little town," Arden said sincerely. "And if you need any help getting settled, I'm more than willing to lend a hand."

A small smile curved Mari's lips, and Arden's heart soared at the sight. "Thank you for the offer, Deputy."

"Does your shop have a name?" he asked.

"I'm thinking Divine Escapes for those who want to escape the world one dessert at a time."

"That's fun," he said. "I bet you'll have people knocking down your doors."

As they reached the main entrance, Arden set the box down, his gaze lingering on Mari's face. The attraction between them was palpable, a current of electricity that seemed to crackle in the air.

"I should get back to my patrol," he said reluctantly, not wanting to overstay his welcome. "But I meant what I said about helping out. Just say the word, and I'll be there."

Mari's eyes softened, a hint of vulnerability shining through. "Thank you, Arden. I appreciate it more than you know."

With a final nod and a smile, Arden turned to leave, his heart feeling lighter than it had in years. As he walked away, he couldn't shake the feeling that his path was meant to cross with Mari's, that their story was just beginning.

And for the first time in a long while, Arden found himself looking forward to the future, eager to see what the next chapter would bring.