The hearth glows like amber in the heart of The Silver Willow, casting shadows that dance among the curling ivy-patterned rugs and velvet drapes. Snowflakes tap gently against the windows, and the scent of cinnamon, orange peel, and old stories lingers in the air.
A petite figure hops up onto the bench across from you, her curls tied back with a ribbon that glitters like fae dust. A lute rests nearby. She wraps her fingers around a steaming mug and grins.
“Well now, what’ve we here? A traveler with curious eyes and time to spare? Oh, you’ve come to the right place. I’m Wylla Montaire, bard-in-residence here at The Silver Willow, and keeper of tales that warm the soul. Pull up that blanket… yes, the one with the embroidered dragons, and let me spin you a good one.”
She leans forward, eyes sparkling with mischief and heart.
“Tomorrow there may be dragons to slay. But tonight… we fall in love.”
“Let me tell you the story of how a sharp-tongued spice merchant with a steel spine and a storm in her heart found her forever home right here in Willow Haven. And how one rakish high elf with eyes like trouble made her question everything she thought she wanted.”
“Her name was Noelene. She travelled the road, heart-guarded, and determined to build something real, something hers. The world tried to take it from her. Nearly did. But fire like that doesn’t go out easy.”
“And Dravyn… oh, stars above. Dravyn was magic wrapped in silk and sin. Nobly born, fae-touched, with wild magic that sparkled when he laughed and shattered glass when he wept. He’d been caged in etiquette his whole life. But here? Here, he got to breathe.”
“When fate—or folly—put him in her path with nothing but coin and charm, she said yes. Against her better judgment. For the money, she told herself. For the shortcut back to her dream. But we both know what really happened…”
Wylla sips her drink, dramatic pause perfectly timed.
“They rode together for two weeks. Shared space, shared adventure, shared secrets. And by the end?” She smiles like a cat who’s just finished her cream.
“Well. Let’s just say that wagon got very cozy.”
“This is a tale of heat and healing, of teasing glances and terrifying truths. Of building something sacred from the ashes of what was lost. And if you’ve ever wanted to believe in second chances, this one’s for you.”