Chapter 43
FORTY-THREE
M usic and laughter drifted through the Katz Med Spa’s grand opening celebration. Clover tucked herself into a quiet corner, taking a moment to appreciate how the enchanted fountains caught the light from the crystal chandeliers. The elegant space buzzed with Mystic Hollow’s elite, but her attention kept drifting to the display of signature candles—her candles—arranged on ornate tables throughout the room.
“You’re hiding.” Poe landed on the marble fountain edge beside her. “Though I can’t blame you. If one more person asks about the ‘magical properties’ of lavender while wiggling their fingers, I might commit violence.”
“You can’t commit violence. You’re decorative tonight, remember?”
“I’m never decorative.” He preened his feathers. “I’m sophisticated ambiance. And speaking of sophistication...” His tone turned sly as Rook approached.
Her tiger looked devastating in his tailored suit, though she noted with affection that his tie had come slightly askew. Probably from tugging at it—he hated formal wear almost as much as she did. His eyes lit up when he spotted her, that special smile she now knew was reserved just for her spreading across his face.
“Found you.” He pulled her into his arms, nuzzling her temple. “Hiding from your adoring public?”
“Strategic retreat.” She straightened his tie, letting her fingers linger on his chest. “Though watching Banner try to explain aromatherapy to that dragon shifter was entertaining.”
“Oh, you missed the best part.” Romi joined them, dragging Xabir along. “Felix Ember, one of our dragon shifter elders asked if your scents would make him sneeze fire. Banner’s face was priceless.”
“Speaking of priceless...” Sabine appeared with a glass of champagne in hand. “Remember when I offered you money to date my grumpy brother, Clover?”
Rook’s eyebrows shot up. “You what?”
“She turned me down flat.” Sabine grinned. “Said if she was going to date a broody tiger, it would be on her own terms.”
“Smart woman.” Xabir wrapped an arm around Romi’s waist. “Though now that they have things figured out, you better watch out, Sabine. Romi’s got her eyes on you. Soon she’ll be setting you up on all kinds of double dates.”
“Triple dates,” Romi corrected. “Once we find her perfect match.”
Sabine rolled her eyes. “I don’t need help finding?—”
“Yes, you do” came the chorus from everyone, including Poe.
“You’re all terrible.” But Sabine laughed. “Almost as terrible as how disgustingly cute these two have become. Remember when Rook used to actually growl at people?”
“Now he practically purrs.” Banner joined their group, Weston close behind. “It’s disturbing. He smiled at an intern yesterday. The poor kid nearly fainted.”
“I do not purr.” Rook’s protest might have held more weight if he weren’t currently nuzzling Clover’s hair.
“You purr.” Clover turned in his arms to face him. “It’s kind of adorable.”
His mock glare dissolved into another smile as she rose on tiptoes to kiss his chin. “Betrayed by my own mate.”
“Get used to it, dear.” Ilaria’s voice carried warmth and mischief as she and Azella approached. “The women in this family have always been good at keeping our tigers in line.”
“Thank the stars for that.” Azella hugged Clover. “Welcome to the family, sweetheart. Try not to let him work too hard.”
“I don’t—” Rook started.
“You absolutely do,” everyone chorused again.
Clover laughed at his put-upon expression, pressing closer as his arms tightened around her. These people—this family—had become hers too, their acceptance and love wrapping around her like a warm blanket.
“Just wait.” His eyes sparkled with something that made her magic tingle in anticipation. “The real entertainment’s about to start.”
Before she could ask what he meant, he clinked a glass for attention. The crowd quieted, turning toward them expectantly.
“Thank you all for coming tonight.” Rook’s arm slipped around her waist, warm and steady. “This spa represents a new chapter for Katz Corp—one that combines innovation with tradition, science with magic.” His eyes found hers. “None of it would have been possible without the brilliant witch who helped create our signature scent line.”
Clover’s cheeks heated as appreciative murmurs rippled through the crowd. Under the crystal lights, she caught Banner’s knowing smirk and Sabine’s delighted grin.
“To show our appreciation,” Rook continued, “every guest will receive a gift set of our exclusive candles designed by Clover herself. Additionally, anyone who presents a receipt from either Weaver’s Botanicals or Spellbound Lights will receive a twenty percent discount on any spa service.”
Surprise stole Clover’s breath. She hadn’t known about the discount offer. Around them, excited chatter broke out as attendees discussed which of her shops to visit first.
“You sneaky tiger.” She whispered against his chest. “You’re going to overwhelm my poor shops.”
“Good thing I already arranged for Halle to have extra help.” He brushed a kiss across her forehead. “I take care of what’s mine.”
“Yours, huh?”
“Mine.” His tiger rumbled possessively. “Just like I’m yours.”
The rest of the evening passed in a whirl of congratulations and laughter. Clover found herself drawn into countless conversations, but Rook never strayed far. His hand would find hers, or his arm would slip around her waist, keeping them connected even as they mingled separately.
When they got back to Rook’s cabin, which was soon to be their full-time home, Clover led him by his tie to the bedroom.
“What’s happening?” he groaned between a series of kisses she placed all over his face the moment they stopped in front of the bed.
“You said we had to wait until I didn’t have stitches anymore and was completely healed before I could take advantage of you as much as I want. Well, guess what? I’m healed, no more stitches and it’s time for you to keep your promises.” She nibbled his ear as she ground into him. “Officially make me your mate. Now.”
He chuckled before kissing her deeply. “Think I’m that easy?”
She giggled. “Think? Nope. Know . We’ve literally waited long enough. I’m taking advantage of you tonight. A lot. Multiple times. And you’re going to do the same to me. I need you.”
“Is that why you wore this particular dress, little witch? Because you wanted to make sure you got yours as soon as we got back?”
“Yup.”
He lifted the hem up her legs, exposing her skin at an infuriating slow speed. Clover wanted to rush him, but it was intoxicating to see her man enjoying this moment as much as he was. Once he got to her thighs, he growled low. “You’re not wearing panties.”
She grinned. “I wanted to mess with you all night. To really torture you.”
“You naughty witch. I kept wondering but didn’t really think you’d gone that far.”
“I did. I’d do anything for you,” she whispered, her desire dampening at his words.
Rook ripped the dress off her and threw it on the ground. He growled again when he saw she wasn’t wearing a bra either.
Rook dropped to his knees in front of her and her body flamed in understanding.
He ran his tongue along the seam of her, gripped her hips. “This isn’t gonna work. On the bed. Now.”
Clover giggled. “Bossy tiger.”
He smacked her ass, licking his lips. “I need more of you. Don’t make me wait, or you’ll regret it.”