Epilogue

Sera sat across from Lark at their favorite table in the Lone Wolf Cafe, a contented smile playing on her lips. The morning sunlight streamed through the windows, casting a warm glow over their breakfast plates. Lark's eyes sparkled with mischief as he leaned forward, his voice low and conspiratorial.

"I bet it takes less than a minute for someone to notice," he whispered, nodding toward the ring in Sera's hand.

Sera chuckled, her heart fluttering with excitement. "You're on. I give it at least five minutes. People are usually too focused on their coffee to pay attention to anything else this early."

With a discreet movement, Sera slipped the elegant engagement ring onto her ring finger, the diamond catching the light and casting tiny rainbows across the table. She had barely settled her hand back on the table when a high-pitched squeal pierced the air.

"Oh my goodness! Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh!" Celeste rushed over, her auburn curls bouncing with each step. She enveloped Sera in a tight hug, nearly knocking over their coffee cups in her enthusiasm. "I'm so happy for you. When? How? Oh, wow! That rock is gorgeous. Congratulations, you two!"

Sera laughed, returning the hug with equal fervor. "Thank you, Celeste. We're thrilled."

Kade emerged from the kitchen, a broad grin on his face. He clapped Lark on the shoulder, his eyes twinkling with warmth. "Well, well, look at you two. Breakfast is on the house today. Consider it an engagement gift."

The cafe erupted in cheers and applause as the news spread like wildfire. Patrons raised their mugs in toast, their faces filled with joy for the newly engaged couple. Elsie, who had been chatting with a customer near the counter, hurried over, her eyes misty with emotion.

"I knew it!" she exclaimed, clasping her hands together. "I've been waiting for this moment. You better believe I'll be first in line for that wedding invitation."

Sera felt a lump form in her throat, touched by the outpouring of love and support from the community she now called home.

Marianne, who had been enjoying a quiet breakfast with Elsie, approached their table, her face radiant with happiness. She embraced Lark, her eyes shining with pride.

"My dear boy," she murmured, her voice thick with emotion. "I'm so happy for you both. Sera, welcome to the family."

Sera's heart swelled as Marianne pulled her into a warm hug, the scent of lavender and vanilla enveloping her. She blinked back tears, overwhelmed by the sense of belonging that washed over her.

After they finished their breakfast amidst a flurry of well-wishes and congratulations, Sera and Lark made their way out of the cafe, hand in hand. The streets of Whispering Pines were already buzzing with the news of their engagement. Neighbors and friends stopped them every few steps to offer their heartfelt congratulations.

"Mrs. Pendleton, did you hear?" a young woman gushed as she came out of Molly's bakery, her eyes wide with excitement. "Sera and Lark are engaged!"

"Oh, how wonderful!" Mrs. Pendleton replied, her weathered face breaking into a broad smile. "You two are perfect for each other. Congratulations, my dears."

Sera and Lark navigated the impromptu celebrations, their cheeks aching from the constant smiles and laughter. By the time they reached what was formerly Sera's rental but was now their new house, they were both giddy with happiness and slightly out of breath. At the front door, there were boxes of gifts from Molly, Ivy, and Luna congratulating them.

"I told you," Lark teased once they were inside, pulling Sera close. "It took less than a short walk home for everyone to know our news."

Sera laughed, leaning into his embrace. "You were right. I should know better than to bet against you by now."

Inside what was now their house, Lark waved his hand, and soft music filled the air. He pulled Sera into the middle of the living room, his arms encircling her waist as they began to sway to the gentle melody.

"Dance with me, future Mrs. Wilder," Lark whispered, his breath tickling her ear.

Sera melted into his arms, her head resting on his shoulder as they moved together, their hearts beating as one. In that moment, surrounded by the love of her life and the warmth of their magical community, Sera knew she had finally found her true home in Whispering Pines and in Lark.

The End…for Now