Cause & Effect | Ominis Gaunt Love Story

Chapter 64: Strawberry Tarts; They're Magically Delicious!

Ah. That reminded her. "What was the story behind the strawberry tarts."

"N-"

Stella interrupted him with a side glare and a snooty tone, "I didn't ask you."

That caused the Professor to let out another boisterous laugh, drawing the attention of some customers, "And a cheekier witch. Finally, someone brave enough to deal with your attitude. I never thought I'd see the day."

"Neither did I." Ominis said in a dry tone, regarding her with the same amount of suspicion as earlier. He clearly knew something was wrong, but it wasn't the time to ask. "Ah. I forgot to ask Sirona for a shot of firewhisky."

Professor Ronen smiled, "I need another butterbeer anyway. Stella, when I get back, I'll tell you about that story. It's berry funny."

She forced a smile, though on a normal day she would have laughed at the pun. Once the Professor was out of earshot, she looked at Ominis, "Why do I have a feeling you said that knowing he'd want another drink soon in order to talk to me alone?"

"Because you're smart and beautiful." He said simply, "Now what's wrong?"

She pointed a finger, digging into his pec. "That. That is what's wrong. You can't keep saying things like that to me."

"Because you'll have to address the feelings you already have for me?" He challenged with a wicked smirk tugging at his lips, "I hate to break it to you princess, but ignoring them doesn't make it go away."

Insufferable prat. Her eyes must have conveyed as much because his smirk grew, "Listen here, arsehole. Sure, these terrifying feelings I have for you are growing and I fully intend on going back to the future. So unless you plan to come with me, you need to stop it with the warm and fuzzy compliments."

"Warm and fuzzy compliments..." Ominis snorted inwardly, echoing her. "While understanding your odd remarks about the future would be enlightening, I couldn't go to the future with you. You'll be going alone."

That stung. Why? Was it because he didn't have to think hard about the decision? Did he care so little for her-It had been all in her head. "Why? Do you... Do you not-"

Ominis avoided her question, "I don't know what the effects of time travel could do to Eden. She's still a normal snake despite being my familiar. I can't risk her life for my own selfishness."

Stella went to reply, though unsure of what to say because he had a valid point. Eden had been there for him practically all his life. Stella had been in his life for a week. What was she thinking, overestimating his feelings for her? He fancied the sex. That had to be it. Nothing else. Before she could think of something, Professor Ronen returned to the table.

She hoped that he couldn't hear her heart tearing apart from where he sat.

Chapter 64: Strawberry Tarts; They're Magically Delicious!

"When Ominis was younger, he was a savage for strawberries. He'd load his breakfast yogurts or oats with an entire bowl, and refused to share. Sebastian always tried to steal some from him, but then he'd be hit with a hex that made his teeth grow or he'd start vomiting slugs." Professor Ronen shook his head, speaking in a wry tone. "We never did win the House Cup. Not when I was taking points away at breakfast every day."