A Roar for Magic (Mystic Hollow #2)

Chapter 45

FORTY-FIVE

T he next morning, she slept in while he handled pride business. When she finally got up his text made her smile: Wear something comfortable. Come to the spa. I have another surprise.

“More surprises?” Poe watched her change into a flowing sundress. “Hasn’t he spoiled you enough lately?”

“I don’t think it’s ever going to stop.” She stuck her tongue out at him. “Besides, you like him too.”

“He’s adequate. For a tiger.”

Rook waited outside the spa’s main entrance, and Clover’s breath caught at the sight of him in casual clothes. Something about seeing him relaxed and happy, his usual corporate polish softened into comfortable grace, made her heart flutter.

“Hi.” She stepped into his open arms, inhaling his familiar scent.

“Hi, yourself.” He kissed her properly, slow and sweet. “Ready for your surprise?”

“Should I be scared?”

“Never.” His thumb traced her cheekbone. “Trust me?”

“Without a doubt.”

He led her around the building toward a hidden path, his hand warm in hers. The air changed as they walked, becoming richer with the scent of herbs and flowers. Magic tingled against her skin, old and peaceful.

“Close your eyes,” he murmured.

She did, letting him guide her forward. His tiger energy wrapped around her protectively, excitement humming through their bond.

“Okay,” he said softly. “Look.”

Clover opened her eyes and gasped. They stood in a secluded garden sanctuary, sheltered by ancient trees. A crystalline stream wound through beds of healing herbs and magical plants. She recognized rare botanicals she’d only read about, all arranged in perfect growing conditions.

“How...” She trailed off, overwhelmed by the beauty and power of the space.

“My uncle created this place as a meditation garden.” Rook’s voice softened with memory as he pulled her back against his chest. “I’ve spent the last month restoring it, adding the plants you’ve mentioned wanting to grow.”

Tears pricked her eyes as she took in the details. A wooden pavilion provided shelter for spellwork. Comfortable benches invited quiet contemplation. Every plant had been chosen with care and positioned to thrive.

“This is your space,” he continued, his lips brushing her temple. “Somewhere to practice magic, grow your herbs, or simply find peace. The wards will only admit you and those you specifically allow.”

She turned in his arms, her heart so full it hurt. “Rook...”

“Say you’ll use it. Make it yours.” His fingers traced her jaw. “I’d give you the world if I could, but I thought you might prefer a garden.”

A laugh bubbled up through her tears. “You amazing man.” She pulled him down for a deep kiss, pouring all her love into it. “I love you. So much.”

“I love you too.” The words rumbled from deep in his chest as he lifted her off her feet. “You’re everything to me, Clover. My mate, my partner, my heart.”

She melted into his embrace, magic and emotions tangling together. Here in this sanctuary he’d created just for her, she finally understood. This was what belonging felt like—not fear or obligation, but love freely given and joyfully returned.

“Thank you,” she whispered against his lips.

His tiger purred. “For what?”

“For being you. For seeing me. For making me feel safe to be myself.”

“Always.” He pressed his forehead to hers. “Though I should warn you—Poe already claimed that highest branch for his ‘supervisory perch.’“

“Someone has to make sure you two don’t get too sickeningly sweet,” Poe called from above. “I have standards to maintain.”

Clover laughed, burying her face in Rook’s neck. This was perfect—their love had room for all the pieces that made them who they were, from meddling sisters to sarcastic familiars to the deep, unshakeable bond between them.

She had found her place to belong. Not just the garden sanctuary, but here in Rook’s arms, their magics entwined, their hearts beating as one.

Forever.