Chapter 6

SIX

T he soft glow of dawn crept over the horizon as Arden stepped out of his house ready for his morning patrol. The crisp, pine-scented air filled his lungs, invigorating him for the day ahead. As he walked through the quiet streets of Whispering Pines, his thoughts drifted to Mari, the enchanting witch who had captured his heart that fateful night in the city.

Arden's brow furrowed as he recalled the threats Mari had received from her ex-husband, Victor. A fierce protectiveness surged through him, fueling his resolve to keep her safe. He quickened his pace, eager to ensure the town remained peaceful and secure.

Approaching the sheriff's office, Arden spotted Reed Mallory, the town's steadfast leader. "Morning, Reed," he called out, his voice carrying across the tranquil street.

Reed looked up, a knowing smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Arden, just the man I wanted to see. Any updates on Mari's situation?"

Arden nodded, his jaw clenching slightly. "I'm keeping a close eye on things. Victor's threats have me on high alert."

"Understood," Reed replied, his tone serious. "We'll increase patrols around her shop and home. If Victor or his lackeys show up, we'll be ready."

Gratitude warmed Arden's chest. "Thanks, Reed. I appreciate the support."

With a parting nod, Arden set off toward Mari's bakery, his senses attuned to any signs of trouble. As he approached the charming storefront, the aroma of freshly baked pastries and the gentle hum of magic enveloped him, easing the tension in his shoulders.

Pushing open the door, Arden was greeted by the sight of Mari, her auburn hair pulled back in a messy bun, a dusting of flour on her cheek as she worked her culinary magic. She looked up, her emerald eyes sparkling with warmth when she saw him.

"Arden, what a pleasant surprise," she said, her voice as sweet as the confections she created.

He grinned, leaning against the counter. "Just wanted to check in, make sure everything's okay."

Mari's smile softened, a flicker of vulnerability in her gaze. "I feel safer knowing you're watching out for me."

Arden's heart swelled with affection. "Always, Mari. I won't let anything happen to you."

As he helped her with the day's deliveries, Arden remained vigilant, his senses heightened for any signs of danger. Stepping out the back door of the bakery, a flicker of movement caught his eye. A shadowy figure lurked near the dumpsters, the form obscured by the early morning mist.

Instinctively, Arden moved to shield Mari, his body tensing as he prepared for a confrontation. "Stay here," he whispered, his voice low and urgent.

With swift, silent strides, Arden approached the figure, his eyes narrowing as he detected the faint scent of magic tinged with malice. As he drew closer, the figure darted away, disappearing into the awakening town.

Arden searched the area, his heart pounding with a mix of adrenaline and concern. Near the kitchen's back entrance, he discovered evidence of tampering—locks scratched and hinges damaged. A surge of anger coursed through him, his protective instincts roaring to life.

Returning to Mari, Arden gently grasped her shoulders, his touch reassuring. "I found signs of forced entry. Someone's been trying to break in."

Mari's eyes widened, fear flickering across her delicate features. "Victor?" she whispered, her voice trembling.

Arden nodded grimly. "Likely. But I won't let him near you, Mari. I promise."

As he held her close, offering comfort and strength, Arden's resolve hardened. He would do whatever it took to keep Mari safe, to help her build a new life free from the shadows of her past.

Together, they resumed their work, an unspoken understanding flowing between them. Mari's presence soothed Arden's troubled thoughts, her gentle smile a balm to his worried soul.

Later, as they sorted through the cabinet's supplies, Arden's keen senses detected an unfamiliar scent—a cloying, bitter aroma that set his nerves on edge. Rummaging through the shelves, he discovered a small, tightly bound pouch hidden among the ingredients.

"Mari," he called out, his voice tight with concern. "I found something."

She hurried to his side, her brow furrowed as she examined the pouch. "A hex bag," she murmured, her fingers trembling slightly as she traced the intricate knots. "Someone's trying to sabotage my bakery with dark magic."

Arden's jaw clenched, a growl rumbling deep in his chest. "Victor's behind this. It has to be him."

Mari's shoulders tensed, the weight of her ex-husband's relentless pursuit bearing down on her. Arden gently tilted her chin up, his gaze locking with hers. "We'll stop him, Mari. I won't let him hurt you or your dreams."

With renewed determination, Arden reported the incident to Reed, who wasted no time organizing increased patrols and surveillance around the store and Mari's home. The community rallied around them, offering support and protection.

Arden spent his days working closely with Mari, his presence a constant source of comfort and security. As they navigated the challenges together, their bond deepened, an unspoken connection blossoming between them.

One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in a warm, golden glow, Arden invited Mari to his home for dinner and she said yes. He prepared a hearty meal, pouring his affection into every dish, hoping to provide a moment of respite amidst the chaos.

As they sat across from each other, the flickering candlelight casting a soft, intimate glow, Arden found himself captivated by Mari's beauty, both inside and out. Her laughter filled the room, a melodic sound that made his heart soar.

They talked for hours, sharing stories of their pasts, their hopes, and their dreams. With each passing moment, Arden felt the walls around his heart crumble, allowing Mari to see the man beneath the uniform, the soul yearning for love and connection.

Just as the evening drew to a close, Arden's phone buzzed. He answered, his brow furrowing as Reed's voice crackled through the line.

"Arden, we've got an incident at Mari's place. You better get over here."

Arden's heart clenched, fear and anger warring within him. He turned to Mari, his expression grim. "We need to go. Something's happened at your house."

Together, they raced through the darkened streets, the cool night air whipping against their faces. As they approached Mari's home, Arden's eyes widened at the sight before them.

On the front lawn, a menacing message was spelled out in magically animated leaves, their edges razor-sharp and glinting in the moonlight. "You can't escape me, Mari. I will have what's mine."

Mari gasped, her hand flying to her mouth as tears welled in her eyes. Arden wrapped his arm around her shoulders, pulling her close. "I've got you, Mari. You're not facing this alone."

Reed and his team were already on the scene, collecting evidence and securing the perimeter. Luna Nightshade, the town's apothecary, arrived shortly after, her violet eyes narrowed with concentration as she examined the enchanted leaves.

"This is powerful magic," she murmured, her fingers tracing the air above the message. "The signature matches the hex bag from the bakery. There's no doubt Victor is behind this."

Arden turned to Mari, his hands gently cupping her face. "I won't rest until you're safe, Mari. I'll do whatever it takes to protect you and bring Victor to justice."

Mari leaned into his touch. "Thank you. I thought I was free of him. I thought I'd have a fresh start," she said, her words tired and filled with frustration. "But I guess he is still not done trying to ruin my life."