The Modern Witch's Guide to Faking It With a Werewolf

The air is crisp as I step out of Moonlit Elixirs, the scent of roasting peacans and pumpkin scones whip through the wind reminding just why I love this time of year. The fall festival is almost in full swing, with townsfolk and tourists alike meandering through Willowbrook's charming streets. Daisy has done an excellent job arranging all of the vendors I think to myself as I move down the sidewalk. 

Breathing in the cool air, I feeling a thrill of anticipation. Despite the recent oddities around town, there's something magical about this time of year. I adjust my scarf and mentally run through the list of supplies I need to pick up from The Enchanted Bean: cinnamon sticks, star anise, and extra jars for potions. My mind is so preoccupied that I don't notice the uneven cobblestone path ahead.

Suddenly, my foot catches on a loose stone, and I stumble forward, letting out a startled yelp. Before I hit the ground, strong hands catch me, steadying my fall.

"Whoa, easy there," says a voice, warm and amused.

I look up, my heart racing, and find myself staring into a pair of striking blue eyes, flecked with gold. The man who caught me is tall, with dark hair and a roguish smile. He's dressed casually in a button down and jeans, but there's an air of confidence about him that makes me pause. I'd place him around my age, but I don't recognize him. He must be a visitor in town for the festival. 

"Thanks," I manage to say, feeling a blush rise to my cheeks. "I didn't see the—"

"Stone? Yeah, these streets can be tricky," he finishes for me, still holding onto my arms as if making sure I'm steady. "Sure you're okay?"

"Yeah, I'm fine," I say, pulling away and feeling a bit flustered under his steady gaze. "I should probably watch where I'm going."

He chuckles, a sound that's both soothing and infectious. "It's a busy day; easy to get distracted." He pauses, his eyes scanning my face with a curiosity that makes me feel oddly exposed. "I'm Alex, by the way."

"Dallas," I reply, offering a small smile. "Nice to meet you, Alex."

"Likewise," he says, his smile widening. "So, Dallas, what brings you to this part of town? Besides tripping over cobblestones, I mean."

I laugh, feeling a bit more at ease. "Just running errands for our shop, Moonlit Elixirs. We're setting up for the fall festival. What about you? Visiting for the festival?"

"Actually, I just moved here," Alex replies, glancing around at the bustling town. "Trying to get a feel for the place. Willowbrook has a certain... charm, doesn't it?"

"It does," I agree, nodding. "It's especially magical this time of year."

"Magical, huh?" he muses, a twinkle in his eyes. "I'm starting to see that."

There's something about his easy manner and warm gaze that draws me in, making me want to know more. "Well, welcome to Willowbrook," I say, hoping I don't sound too eager. "If you need someone to show you around, I'd be happy to help."

"I will keep that in mind." Alex raises an eyebrow, a playful curiosity in his tone.

We stand there for a moment, the lively sounds of the festival surrounding us. Finally, Alex glances at his watch. "I should probably let you get back to your errands," he says, stepping back slightly.

"Right, of course," I reply, feeling a bit reluctant to end the conversation. "It was nice meeting you, Alex."

"Nice meeting you too, Dallas," he says with that same roguish smile. "Maybe I'll see you around."

"Maybe," I say, unable to keep the smile off my face.

As Alex walks away, I stand there for a moment, replaying the encounter in my mind. There's something intriguing about him, something that piques my curiosity. Shaking my head, I remind myself that I have a busy day ahead. With a final glance in the direction Alex went, I continue to The Enchanted Bean.

Inside, I quickly gather the items I need, my thoughts still half-occupied with Alex. As I approach the counter, Mrs. Beech, the shop's owner, gives me a knowing look.

"Who was that tall handsome fellow I saw you chatting with outside?" She asks, a mischievous grin on her face.

I roll my eyes, though I can't suppress a smile. "Just a new guy in town, Alex. He caught me before I made a complete fool of myself."

"Charming and heroic," she teases as she rings up my purchases. "Sounds like you should stumble over the uneven cobblestone more often."

"Maybe," I say noncommittally, though inside, there's a flutter of anticipation. "But right now, I've got potions to make and a festival to prepare for."

"Of course, of course," Mrs. Beech says, handing me the bag. "But don't forget about Max. I'm sure that boy would be devastated if he thought you had your eyes set on someone else."

I laugh before nervously shoving a stand of hair behind my ear, "You know Max and I are just friends."

She gives me an incredulous look, but I really do have to go.