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5. Autumn

Chapter five

Autumn

Love potion rumors debunked. A witch in the Philippines claimed to have discovered the perfect ingredient for a love potion. After conducting several tests, during which the individual failed to develop a genuine connection with their colleague, it is evident we must resort to finding love in the traditional manner. The probability of crafting a powerful love spell or potion remains nonexistent.

-Article by Agatha Perry, Magic This Weekly Magazine

K eeping my composure while this man talked shit about my wolf was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do.

My wolf.

Gods, I don't know where that thought came from, but I like the sound of it. I never saw myself as the type to be protective, except when it came to Maple and my family. However, when Meyer intentionally said malicious and hurtful things to Rook, I felt compelled to defend him. I had to get this man away from the shop—and quick.

Let's ignore the fact that I thought Rook's growling was hot.

A cool breeze caresses my face as soon as we step out of Rook's Apothecary. Orange and yellow fall leaves crunch under my boots as I walk down the cobblestone path, Maple trotting next to me, and Meyer leading the way. He peers over at me and I swear his white teeth sparkle unnaturally.

Wrapping my black scarf tighter against me, I pretend not to be bothered by the older blond man. "So, you mentioned having some type of love potion available?"

He gives me a huge, over-the-top grin, but before he can reply, Maple weaves around his legs, causing her leash to wrap around him. When he isn't looking, I send her a silent message down the bond. ‘Stop that, troublemaker.'

She yips at me.

‘I know the guy is a sleaze. Trust me, I won't be taking any of his potions. No matter what he says.'

What the hell was I thinking? I know better than to be hopeful for something so childish. While studying at a secret witch university and researching the family grimoire, I discovered that true love potions don't actually exist.

Any fleeting spell I might take is exactly as Rook explained. It would either lead to an unhealthy obsession or mimic the feeling of shallow happiness. Nothing more. It might be ridiculous, but I just want to feel something for the person I'm forced to marry. Because, at the end of the day, I'll choose marriage over being the reason my whole family and coven lose their magic.

"I did," he finally replies as he untangles the leash and hands it back to me. "I mentioned a love potion. Can you tell me who it's for? Because I'm sure you won't need a strong spell to get what you want." He waggles his eyebrows and places a hand on the small of my back.

Luckily, we make it to the front of his shop, so it gives me a good excuse to put some distance between us. I step away from Meyer's touch. The guy reminds me of that bastard, Orson, and it's unsettling my nerves.

Maple tugs on the sleeve of my peacoat. Suspicion and worry pulsing through our magical bond. Bending down, I scoop her up into my arms and she curls against me. Maple has the ability to change sizes depending on her mood. Even though she seems upset, she shrinks down into the size of a small cat as she burrows against my scarf.

"It isn't for anyone specific. I just wanted options."

Meyer nods, holding the door to Witchful Thinking open. As soon as we walk inside, my eyes are assaulted by bright lights and white walls. Where Rook's Apothecary is warm and inviting with a woodsy aesthetic, this store is cold and clinical, like an overpriced pharmacy.

"Welcome to Witchful Thinking . We provide some of the most affordable ingredients for your spellwork and potions here in—oh. It's just you," a young woman says from the cash register. Her eyes droop as if she's bored and about to fall asleep.

"Jeez, Shelly. Enthusiasm, enthusiasm, enthusiasm." Meyer snaps his fingers three times as if all the repetition will drill it into her head.

Shelly just rolls her eyes before her attention returns to scrolling on her phone.

"Ignore her," Meyer says, touching my back again and guiding me to a shelf in the middle of the store. "This is what you're looking for."

The shelf is lined with bottles of various sizes, but he reaches for an obvious heart-shaped one with a cloudy pink liquid in it. Meyer plucks it off the shelf, gives it a swirl and hands it to me with a huge smile.

I blink, glancing down at the bottle. Something glittery swirls inside.

Is this guy serious? He must mistake me for a human, or an inexperienced witch, because I can tell from here there is little to no magic pulsing in this glass jar. "And what exactly is in this?"

My gaze bounces over to the other potions on the shelf, and I bite back a laugh when I notice the sparkling liquid has settled at the bottom of the glass. I'm pretty sure it's edible glitter.

"Well, a true potion expert doesn't share his secrets."

"Right. And what is this potion supposed to do to someone who drinks it?"

His eye twitches. "It imitates the effects of falling in love, causing the user to be infatuated with the person who hands them the bottle after chanting the proper spell."

"So you lied," I reply in a blunt tone before placing Maple on the floor next to me. She grows back to her full size, only a little taller than a normal full-grown red fox.

"Well, no. Of course not. I—"

"You said, and I quote, ‘Nonsense. I have exactly what you're looking for.' I'm looking for a love potion. Not something that causes temporary infatuation." The vengeful side of me wishes there were customers in the store, just so I can raise my voice the way he did in Rook's Apothecary.

"Look, you mentioned yourself that you knew love potions weren't real. That wolf back there wasn't offering you anything. I'm here giving you a solution."

"Fine. Mind if I test the potion?"

Meyer's eyes pop wide, his grin completely drops from his face. There aren't many witches who can test the power of a spell. It's a rare ability that can only be found in pure bloodlines like the Sinclairs.

"Um, sure, of course."

Maple presses against me, silently pouring her magic into me. Not that I need her help, I just get the feeling the little brat is showing off just how powerful we are.

Cupping the bottle in my open palms, I let my magic swirl around me as I silently chant. Purple threads of magic surround me like shimmering liquid smoke. I bite back a smile when Meyer's eyes follow the sparkling display. That's right, buddy, way more impressive than edible glitter.

I close my eyes and concentrate. Dissecting such a simple spell is almost a joke, but I let my magic hang in the air for a moment longer.

When I open my eyes, I'm shocked to see Meyer isn't pissed. No, he looks almost… impressed.

"Magical Rose water to boost happiness. Spelled sunflower petals. Lavender to help reduce stress." I smirk. "Roasted rice and matcha, I'm assuming to help the spell feel natural while also increasing dopamine in the body. Smart. I have a feeling your shop is popular with getting wonderful results from basic humans who have no idea magic is real."

Meyer's lips purse into a smile. He nods his head. "Impressive. I'm starting to understand why you might need a potion to make someone fall in love with you. You have a magical way of making a guy feel like he got kicked in the balls. If you'll excuse me for a moment." He rushes off.

As soon as he turns the corner, I chuckle. Maple snickers—yes, foxes snicker—a delightfully amused sound.

"Well, now. I'll take that as a compliment. Come on, girl. Let's get out of here." I make a mental note to talk with my college friend from the Elite Guard. Usually, I'd mind my own business, but the fact Meyer literally tried to poach me from another shop only to sell me something with false claims is concerning. What other potions and items does he have in his shop that don't do what they are expected to do? How many are dangerous?

Deep in thought, it isn't until Maple is tugging on her leash do I realize she led us back to Rook's Apothecary. I bend down with a smile and give her some scritches under her chin. Is she just as excited to get back to Rook as I am, or did she tap into my feelings and lead me here because she knew this is where I wanted to be?

We step through the front door together, and I notice only a few people lingering around the reading area. This shop really is beautiful, with its rustic ambiance and woodland vibes. Magical plants decorate the shop. Not only are they for sale, but they are part of the aesthetic. Earlier, when I first walked into the shop, I was surprised at how welcoming the place was.

That familiar home-baked goods scent permeates the air, reminding me of fresh cookies. I'm not entirely sure if the scent is from the candles behind the register or if they actually bake dessert in the back room.

"You're back."

A woman who looks to be a few years older than me is standing a few feet away with her arms crossed. "We don't have what you're looking for." Her voice is cold and clipped. Damn. She saw me leave with Meyer earlier.

Movement catches my eye and I see Ruby rush over to us. "Babe, do you know who this is?"

Ruby is a stunning Asian woman who owns a candle shop the next town over. I try to visit her shop as often as possible. Being half witch, half mage, Ruby makes some of the best candles and wax melts with just the right amount of magic blended in.

My eyes bounce over to the candles behind the register. "Ah Ruby, I should have known you were responsible for that heavenly smell."

Ruby smiles and gives me a hug.

"I don't care who he is. He caused a scene in our store earlier. He's the one I told you about."

"Lyla!" Ruby hisses. "Autumn is a Sinclair."

My head snaps up. "No, it's okay Rubes." I turn toward Lyla. "I'm pretty sure I'm the guy who got the asshole to leave."

Lyla blinks.

I figure now that I have her attention, I should continue explaining while I still have a chance. "That Meyer guy was talking crap and starting a scene, all while trying to promote his magic shop. A few people had their phones out. Not to mention, Rook was getting all hot and growly. He doesn't need any negative attention on him or his shop."

Ruby rubs small circles on Lyla's back. Lyla relaxes against her touch before her lips twitch. "Did you just call my brother hot?" She smirks.

"Wait, what? Your brother?" I squeak. As soon as the words leave my lips, I see the resemblance. The same shade of brown hair, and almost identical eyes. But where Rook looks like a werewolf, Lyla looks human.

Lyla's eyes flash, and I see the predator within. Then her words slam into me. Oh gods, I just told Rook's fierce-looking sister that I think he's hot.

Growling starts up by my knees, and Lyla glances down. "Who do we have here?" Lyla squats down and holds her hand out to Maple. He must have picked up on my discomfort because he continues to growl.

"It's okay, girl. This is Rook's sister." I squat down and pet my familiar. "We like Rook. Remember?"

Lyla's face softens. Ruby winks at me from behind Lyla before walking up toward the front of the shop.

Scratching my head nervously, I give Lyla a sheepish look. "Is Rook here?" I whisper.

Lyla shakes her head as she continues to study me. We both just squat on the floor, petting Maple as she eats up the attention, no longer caring that Lyla just embarrassed the crap out of me. ‘ Traitor. You'll do anything for pets.'

Maple just purrs in response.

"What do you want with my brother?"

I bite my lip, wondering how much of the truth I should give her. She already knows I'm attracted to her brother. But what about the fact that I can't stop thinking about the handsome wolf? Or why maybe I want a love potion and how it's for me and not someone else? "I want to explain. I realize I left abruptly earlier, but in all honesty, I really was trying to get Meyer out of here. The asshole had the balls to try to give me some fake love potion when we left."

"That's right," she replies, shoulders tensing.

I get the feeling reminding her what I was originally looking for a love potion was a bad idea.

Lyla purses her lips. She continues to pet Maple, looking deep in thought. "So, what do you need with a love potion? If you really are a Sinclair, then you know better than me that there is no such thing. Gods, haven't you ever seen that movie Love Potion No. 9 ?"

I chuckle. "I love that movie."

"So does Rook." She grins, and I return the smile.

"If you don't mind, I'd like to explain things to him first." I pause, thinking over my words. Why did I feel like I owed Rook an explanation? Could it be this strange pull I feel toward him? Or maybe it's because I'm pretty sure we shared a dream last night?

"Alright, then." Lyla stands, brushing off her hands on her jeans. "He's under the gazebo."

Excitement swirls in my stomach, like magical tendrils spiraling until they wrap around my heart and tug. The need to stop everything and go see Rook is irresistible. I stand, giving Lyla a thankful nod. "I'm going to go chat with him."

Nerves wrack my body as I make my way across the street. Lyla offered to watch over Maple, not knowing that Maple's leash really is just for show and she could take care of herself. Nevertheless, Maple wanted to stay behind for all the head scritches and pets.

I'm almost at the gazebo when the sight before me knocks the wind from my lungs. Rook is sitting on the bench looking so masculine and devilishly handsome. His white button-up is pulled tight across his muscular chest and arms. His legs are spread wide, and his head is tipped back, enjoying the fresh air on his face.

Rook looks so damn peaceful that I almost turn around and leave, not wanting to interrupt him. But then I notice something on the bench next to him; my spellbook I was carrying earlier.

My heart skips a beat. Did he come here hoping I'd show up? I glance behind me and note that the gazebo is in the direct line of sight of Rook's window. How many times has he spotted me here, sitting just like he is now, head tipped back and a small smile on my face?

Before I can chicken out, I step closer. I have this crazy need to tell him why I said I was looking for a love potion. There's something deep inside of me telling me to trust Rook.

Once I step under the gazebo, Rook's brown eyes pop open, his gaze searching.

I give him a shy smile and a wave.

He's silent for a moment before he speaks. "You look happy. Did he give you what you're looking for?"

Gods, why do I want to tell Rook I'm happy because I found him ?

"No," I sigh, sitting next to him. "I'm pretty sure Meyer is a fraud. The only reason I left with him was because I wanted to protect you and your shop."

His head jerks my way and our eyes meet. "Is that true?"

"Yes." I scoot closer. "It was foolish of me to ask for a love potion. I know deep down there wouldn't be anything out there. I was just a little…desperate."

He shakes his head. "I don't get it. Why would you want a love potion? Part of the fun is the experience of falling in love."

A little zap of jealousy zings through me. Has he been in love before? "Rook, you don't understand. I would never give an innocent person a potion like that against their will, not unless it was life or death." My thoughts momentarily stray to Orson and how I needed to protect my brother. "That potion would have been for me."

His mouth falls open. It seems like I shocked the big wolf again. "Why the hell would you take a love potion?"

"Have you heard of the Sinclairs?" When he nods, I continue. "That's my family. I'm a pureblood Sinclair. I'm not sure how much you know about witches. But do you know how our magic transferred?"

"I really never paid attention to those born with magic. My studies and passion have always been in spellwork and potion brewing. As a shifter, we can sense certain magic, but nothing compared to a trained witch or mage."

I nod, loving how Rook's passion comes through even now. "Nana holds the majority of our family's power within her. It's called the core magic. The power remains contained as long as she acts as its vessel. Every time a person from our family or the Sinclair Coven summons magic, she can feel its presence. Without a vessel, the magic will fade away or search for a new host."

Rook nods. "Okay, I'm following so far."

"Eventually, the magic will slowly leave Nana's body, the older she gets."

"So, when a vessel starts breaking down, the magic needs to find a new host?"

I nod. "Exactly." Happy that he's following along. "Generations ago, the leader of the coven, John Sinclair, made certain rules and stipulations. Since my family had so much magic, other members were afraid of one witch having so much power. While the core magic remains with the host, another member will be the guardian of the grimoire. The remaining magic that can't be contained by one host will be divided up into several magical pendants that act as conduits."

"That makes sense, but why would you need to take a love potion?" Rook asks, his thick brows scrunched in confusion. Gods, even like this, he's so handsome.

"For the core magic to be inherited, there's a stipulation that states a Sinclair needs to marry in order to become a host."

Understanding dawns in Rook's eyes. I can't believe I'm telling him all of this, but I have a feeling I can trust Rook. Something inside of me needs him to understand.

"I think it had something to do with being able to continue the family line with babies or something like that. John Sinclair, however, was smart and made sure to include adoption as being acceptable as long as we performed the proper ceremonies. The leader wanted to make sure that if a Sinclair couldn't produce a baby, or in my case, happened to not be attracted to the opposite sex, a non-blood member could still continue the coven."

"You're the next host." Rook swallows hard. "You need to marry so you can inherit the core magic and act as its vessel."

I close my eyes, wishing Maple was here to comfort me. The weight of my responsibilities has been weighing down on me lately. "It's not a big deal. It's just that I wasn't prepared for this. Usually, a Sinclair is trained for years on what to do and how to inherit the magic. I, on the other hand, was trained to be the guardian of our family grimoire. I know it's selfish, but I always thought I'd marry for love. I want to experience love at least once in my life."

Rook scoots closer and I open my eyes. Carefully, he wipes away a few stray tears with his clawed finger. "It isn't selfish," he whispers. "It's admirable. It's a beautiful wish worth experiencing."

I lean into his touch before he pulls away.

"Who was supposed to be the original host?"

"My brother. Blaze Sinclair."

Rook's eyes widen with shock. "You have a brother named Blaze?"

I nod, curious about his reaction.

"I'm sorry about the way I acted at the apothecary earlier. I was just trying to protect you."

It's true. I could tell he was trying to stop me from making a mistake. Sure, he looked upset, but he also looked worried.

And his words. Gods, his words. Has anyone ever said anything so sweet to me? Okay, yes, it's obvious now that he was trying to protect me from making a mistake. But the way he whispered, "You don't need a potion to make someone fall in love with you. They just need to meet you."

Swoon.

"It's okay." I reach out for his hand and squeeze it. "I know you were."

Rook blushes and clears his throat. "Anyway, you, uh, left this at my shop." He picks up the spell book and hands it to me. "I was hoping to find you, but when I peeked into Meyer's shop, I didn't see you."

I grin. "We must have missed each other."

"Why is the book so light? Please don't tell me it's your family grimoire."

I bark out a laugh. "Oh, gods no. The title is a simple witch's guide to spellwork. But it's actually for you." I hand it back.

"For me?" His forehead scrunches.

Leaning forward, I press a finger against the wrinkled lines on his face. He laughs and relaxes his brow.

Rook flips open the book and gasps. The pages inside are carved out.

"The other day you told me you wished you were able to read one of your romance books during downtime at the shop, but didn't want others to know what you're reading."

Rook nods, an amused sound leaving his lips. "Gods, it's true. Cass and Lyla already make fun of me. As much as I love them, I don't always need them up in my business." He smiles, and I like the way his voice is filled with fake annoyance. It's clear he cares about them. I like a guy who is sweet to their family.

"Well, this book is spelled to be really light to carry. But the fun part is when you place one of your romances inside the carved out part, it will attach itself to the spell book. To others, it will look like a simple textbook, but to you and me, it will be whatever romance you place inside."

"Gods, this is genius. Lyla is always spying over my shoulder when I'm trying to read on my tablet or phone. I love this! Thank you, Autumn." His brown eyes sparkle. "It was very thoughtful."

My chest warms at his happiness, and I can't fight the huge smile on my face.

"You know what," Rook says. "I have something for you, too. Would you like me to show you my place? I didn't plan to give it to you right away, but this is the perfect time." He waves his new spell book. "And I can test out my new gift."

He got me something?

"Alright, yeah. Let's do it." Even I can hear the giddiness in my tone.

"My cabin is just through the woods." He pauses. "Okay, wow. That sounded super creepy. I promise I'm not the big bad wolf." He winks as he stands.

I laugh. But just like Little Red Riding Hood , I'd follow this big wolf anywhere.

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