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“Longtail was an ass, as expected, and Kyle’s agreed to help out with security.” I leaned against the doorframe. “He thinks we need to work on evacuating the humans sooner rather than later.”
Tori paused, concern flickering across her face. “He’s probably right. We can’t risk putting anyone in danger.”
“We’ll start working on it first thing tomorrow. For now, let’s call it a night and head home.”
“Sounds good to me.”
She stopped at the front desk and gave Diana a quick hug goodbye. A sense of calm washed over me at the sight. She had family here, and loyal friends like Diana. Tori had woven herself into the fabric of Blackwood Creek. I don’t think she realized how far her threads reached, touching so many people in the town.
Watching their farewell, I couldn’t help but notice the gentle, maternal energy exuding from the older woman. Diana had always been good to me, taking me under her wing when the hunters had taken my aunt and uncle. Now it seemed she’d donethe same for Tori. Diana looked up and winked at me, and I grinned back at her.
Tori and I walked back to Blackwood Manor, our fingers intertwined, and the day began to ease from my shoulders. The evening air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of pine and the promise of a clear night.
Back at the manor, we started preparing dinner together, the comforting routine of chopping vegetables and stirring pots allowing my mind to wander. I was brought back to reality by the shrill ring of the telephone.
“Ridge speaking,” I said, tucking the phone between my ear and shoulder as I continued stirring the pot in front of me.
“Hey Ridge, it’s Dean,” came the familiar voice on the other end. “I’ve got some news for you.”
“Go on,” I said.
“I reached out to a couple of vampires I’ve known for a long time. They’re looking for a safe place to stay and are interested in coming to town. They’ve been living like me for decades. Don’t worry, they don’t feed directly from humans. You might need to run some kind of blood drive if they’re going to stay long term so there’s a supply that can be used safely at the hospital’s blood bank. Also, there are a few tiger shifters from Florida looking for refuge. They should arrive in a couple of days.”
“That’s wonderful,” I said, genuinely pleased by the news. “We want Blackwood Creek to be a safe haven for all paranormals, so every new arrival helps.”
“Thought you’d appreciate that,” Dean said with a chuckle. “I’ll keep working on finding more people who want to join us. In the meantime, take care of yourself and Tori.”
“Will do.” I hung up the phone and turned my attention back to Tori as she stirred the sauce for our pasta. The aromas of garlic and tomatoes rose from the pan, mingling with the scent of the fresh basil she had picked from the garden earlier.
“Sounds like we’ll have some new faces around town soon,” I told her. “More vampires and a few tiger shifters are coming to join us.”
“Really?” Tori exclaimed, her excitement contagious. “It’s amazing how many paranormals are looking for a safe place to call home.”
“Thanks to Dean’s efforts, we’re making progress,” I said. “We can’t let our guard down. Not with the hunters still out there.”
Tori nodded solemnly, her expression turning serious. “You’re right. We need to keep working on strengthening our defenses and building alliances. Tonight, though…” She paused, dipping a spoon into the sauce and offering me a taste. “Tonight is just about us.”
I savored the rich, tangy flavor that danced on my tongue before grinning at her. “Perfect, as always.”
“Speaking of perfect,” Tori said with a playful smirk. “How’s your rabbit food coming along?”
I glanced down at the bowl of crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and slivers of red onion. “Well, it’s no gourmet masterpiece, but it should be edible.”
“Edible?” She feigned shock, placing a hand over her heart. “How dare you insult my fiancé’s culinary skills?”
“Very funny.” I rolled my eyes and chuckled. “Just wait until you try my famous homemade croutons.”
“Ooh, croutons! I can hardly contain my excitement.” Her laughter was a melodic chime that bounced off the polished countertops and warm wooden cabinets.
As we sat to enjoy our meal together, I marveled at how incredibly normal this moment was. There was something almost magical about the simplicity of it all—just two people in love, sharing a quiet dinner and laughter in the face of adversity. Moments like these made every challenge worthwhile.
“Ridge,” Tori said softly, reaching across the table to grip my hand. “I know things have been tough lately, and there’s still so much work to do. But I want you to know...I’m grateful for every day we have together.”
“Me too, Tori.” I squeezed her hand gently. “We’ll face whatever comes our way, side by side.”
Chapter 43
Tori
