The Second Mate

TWENTY-FOUR

Marianne greeted the locals as she walked down the town. People she met by the week waved at her as they took a moment from opening their shops and greeted the new resident of the quaint town. Marianne got acquainted with the people after learning that most of Gerrant's daily activities involved helping the town. He did various errands for the townspeople and Marianne would often lend a hand.

Marianne pulled her jacket closer as the morning breeze sent a chill. Thankfully, she met none of the ladies who envied her for living with the eligible wealthy bachelor. Marianne wanted to be introduced as the lycan's distant relative but seniors of the town had already assumed she was Gerrant's wife. The Brethren werewolf dismissed the idea as he introduced her as Aryan's wife. A majority had heard about the weretiger and lycanthrope's confrontation. They had questioned Gerrant about it and to answer their queries, he claimed that Aryan was having trouble in his business and didn't want his wife to be involved so he seeked Gerrant's help.

"You don't kiss your friend's wife." Marianne grumbled at the idea. She shook her head, pushing the thought aside. She was having a great morning, she shouldn't be worrying herself.

Marianne pushed the door and greeted the patissier a great morning. The young man flashed her a smile and greeted her the same.

"Great morning, Marianne! I'm surprised to see you this early in town." Daniel gave his attention to Marianne after she entered the bakery.

"Stefan called Gerrant this morning and I figured to have breakfast outside." Marianne explored the glass shelves of newly baked pastries.

"That's great! Shall I enlighten you then with sweetened leaf bread, it goes great with tea. It's too early for the season but the locals and tourists love it. I hope you'd try it. It's my own special recipe." Daniel offered.

"If it's your own special recipe, I'd be honored to."

The young man's face lit up from her response as he moved about inside the counter to prepare Marianne's breakfast. Marianne giggled at his actions and turned to head outside. She occupied a table by the porch and smiled as she watched the townspeople go by.

"Mari!"

Marianne turned to the man who almost dropped his coffee cup.

"Philippe!" The blonde heaved. She got up from her chair and ran to greet her best friend.

Philippe hugged her, careful as he balanced his cup of hot beverage.

"You're here! I'm so happy you got to visit." Marianne led them back to the table as they settled down to catch up.

"I would've come sooner if I didn't make a stop at Italy. Gosh! Your mother is a beast if it weren't for the free spa and beauty care I would've bolted." Philippe set his cup down. "Anyways, how have you been?"

"I've been great! It feels like this is what my life has been missing." Marianne admitted. The small town did made her feel calm and she was also happy.

"I'm glad to hear that. I know you won't admit it but I know something went down between you and Remus before you left. He may be your soulmate or whatever but I can't handle seeing you all broken and sad." Philippe squeezed her hand.

Their conversation was interrupted when Daniel brought Marianne's order. Marianne and Philippe withdrew their hands to make space for the plate and teacup.

"I see you have company." The baker turned to Philippe.

"Yes. This is my best friend, Philippe. He came to visit." Marianne introduced. "Philippe this is Daniel, the best patissier in town."