by Tena Stetler
“I’m glad you joined us,” Ashling said. “Dusty and Aidan were about to depart along with several of the McKay family ghosts.
Pepper’s eyes rounded. “They were going to leave without even saying goodbye?” She shifted on the bench to see her great-great-great and even more greats grandfather and grandmother rise from the mist.
“Absolutely not. We would have found a way to make ourselves known before our departure.” He smiled and made a slight bow, holding Dusty’s hand in his. “It’s time we returned to the afterlife. I am so happy we got a chance to know you.” He glanced at Lathen then to Pepper. “The McKay property and destiny is safely in your hands.” The grandfatherly ghost winked. “Along with the werewolf.” Aidan chuckled shaking his head slightly causing it to blur. “Never thought.”
Dusty moved closer to her husband, their forms nearly intermingled. “Our legacy is safe with you and the family to come,” she said with a wink.
Pepper stared wide-eyed at Dusty then cut her gaze to Lathen. “Family?”
“Of course,” Dusty stated in melodic voice. “He may be a werewolf, but you’re still a McKay.” She floated closer until mist surrounded them and whispered. “We’re very fertile, you know.”
Lathen felt a cold chill pass over them.
“Dusty, that’s enough,” Aidan said. “We must be off—as they say now days.”
“We’ll miss you,” Pepper said tears glimmering in her eyes.
“Oh, we’ll never be far. Ashling knows where to find us.” Aidan’s form wavered and faded along with Dusty. Leaves rustled as a slight breeze brought salt and brine on the air, the mist thinned and several other ghosts uttered their goodbyes disappearing into the fog.
“Yep, I’m staying put to try to keep Colleen out of trouble until…” Ashling said her voice fading away with the rest of her.
They were alone at last, Lathen wrapped his arm around Pepper, brushed his lips over hers. She cuddled into him with a sigh. “Well, I guess we’re on our own.”
Thundering paws came down the path, Ember and Tonk raced around the pond, finally settling on either end of the bench, Kaylee’s shrill whistle cut through the crisp night air.
One corner of Lathen’s mouth kicked up in a lopsided grin. “Somehow—I doubt that. Happy New Year—my little witch.”
“Happy New Year, my werewolf.” Pepper giggled.
A word from the author…
With the majestic Rocky Mountains just outside my window, I sit at my computer with vampires, demons, witches, faeries, and a variety of paranormal creatures gathered around telling me their stories! I write paranormal romance novels. Remember the magic to happily ever after!
Colorado is home. I share my life with a wonderful husband of many moons, our brilliant Chow Chow, a terribly spoiled companion parrot, and a forty-year-old box turtle. We enjoy hiking, biking, and camping, also love water sports including kayaking and whitewater rafting, especially on the Arkansas River through the Royal Gorge.
You can find me any winter evening curled up in front of a crackling fire with a good book, a mug of hot chocolate, and a big bowl of popcorn. While growing up if I didn’t like the ending of a book, I’d rewrite it, which led to writing my own books.
http://www.tenastetler.com
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