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The alpha officer smiled slowly, and Rayden cleared his throat.
Mark turned her and bustled her back to the employee entrance. She waved farewell to Rayden and went back into her chocolate-scented haven. Her knuckles were iced, and she had to tell the story to the regular staffers, who got irate on her behalf.
After story time, she went back to the display station, tuned everything else out, and started on the list again. Now, it was time for hand-dipped caramels. She gloved up and got to work.
* * * *
Rayden watched her work with calm motions and a slight smile on her lips that he knew was just for the crowds. He heard the whispering in front of him and grinned.
“She’s back.” The older woman giggled as Ruby moved smoothly, and when she was done with a tray, she displayed it to those watching.
“Oh, do you think she will make the candy canes this year? She always does them so well.”
“I don’t see why not. I mean, we can ask. The grandkids loved watching her.”
“Well, if she’s going to do them, it will start soon. Oh, how exciting.”
Rayden asked, “What makes it so fun to watch?”
One of the older ladies did a double take and then said, “Oh, my dear boy. Her hands are magic. She can turn hardening candy into anything.”
The other lady looked and then smiled. “One year, she did blown candy in the shape of a chubby unicorn. It was so fun to watch.”
“That sounds fun. I haven’t been here long, and I do love these holiday traditions.”
“Where are you from, and are you single? I have two granddaughters who are about the right age for you.”
He chuckled. “I already have someone in mind, but thank you for the thought.”
“Pity.”
There was a tap on his senses, and he excused himself and went outside. Marshall was waiting next to his car.
“So? How is she?”
“She split a knuckle but, otherwise, in good spirits. I think beating him up was cathartic.”
Marshall chuckled. “I mean the compliance spell.”
“Oh. Gone. She had nearly worn through it from the inside anyway.”
“Did you feel a link starting?”
“Yes. She’s magnificent. Standoffish though. Most women would have been plastered to me with all the charm I used.”
Marshall nodded. “She has had a rough few years. She isn’t up for your normal blatant seduction and won’t fall for your basic charms.”
“Basic? Huh. Why did you call me again?”
“Because you could crack through that spell without hurting her.”
“Fine. Who is a better match for her?”
Marshall quirked his lips. “I am.”
Rayden blinked. “Huh. I thought you were a monk.”
“No, just not a himbo. She’s already had one partner screwing around on her while abusing her. You really think a bunch of ladies trying to claim you will go over well?”
