Whispers of the Enchanted | A Fantasy Novel

Chapter 11: The Witch's Visit

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One sunny afternoon, Olivia and Oliver were busy in their garden, pulling weeds and planting seeds. The air was warm, and the sweet smell of flowers filled their little cottage.

"I think we should plant more roses," Olivia suggested, looking at the empty spots in their garden. "They'll add such color!"

"I love that idea!" Oliver replied, grinning as he wiped sweat from his brow. "Roses will attract butterflies too. We could use more of those beautiful creatures around."

Just then, they heard a soft rustling in the bushes nearby. Olivia turned, her heart racing slightly. "Did you hear that?"

"Yeah," Oliver said, frowning. "It sounded like someone is coming."

Before they could react, a figure stepped out from the shadows. It was the witch, her cloak flowing like shadows around her. Her eyes sparkled with wisdom and mischief.

"Surprise!" she said with a warm smile, her voice melodic. "I've come to see how my favorite couple is doing."

"Witch!" Olivia exclaimed, feeling a mix of joy and surprise. "What are you doing here?"

The witch laughed softly. "Just checking in. I couldn't help but feel your energy from far away. It seems you are both thriving."

Oliver stepped forward, curiosity shining in his eyes. "We are. But what about the curse you mentioned before? We didn't feel it anymore. Is it really broken?"

The witch nodded, her smile growing wider. "Indeed. The curse that binds love to fear is no longer a part of you. You broke it by choosing to love each other, despite the dangers."

Olivia and Oliver exchanged glances, relief washing over them. "That's amazing!" Olivia said, her heart soaring. "But how did we do it?"

"It's simple yet powerful," the witch explained, her voice gentle. "You both had the courage to follow your hearts. By leaving behind the fear and embracing your love, you found your true path."

Oliver frowned slightly, still unsure. "But what if others try to stop us? What if our families come looking for us?"

The witch shook her head. "Love is a force stronger than any rule or tradition. As long as you believe in each other, you will be safe. Your hearts are now free, and the world will bend to your love."

Olivia felt a rush of hope. "So we can live here without fear? We can be happy?"

"Absolutely," the witch said, her eyes glinting with magic. "But remember, love requires work. You must nurture it every day, just like you do with your garden."

Oliver nodded, determination in his eyes. "We will. I promise we'll take care of our love."

The witch stepped closer, her gaze serious. "I must warn you, though. While the curse is broken, there will be challenges ahead. People do not change easily, and some may still resist your love."

Olivia took a deep breath, feeling the weight of her words. "We'll face those challenges together. We've already come so far."

"Good," the witch said, a proud smile crossing her face. "Your love is strong, and I believe you can overcome anything."

"Thank you for believing in us," Oliver said, gratitude filling his voice. "You gave us the chance to find our own way."

The witch waved her hand, and a soft light surrounded them. "You've earned your happiness. Embrace it fully. And if you ever need my help again, just call my name."

"Wait!" Olivia said, her voice filled with concern. "Will we ever see you again?"

The witch chuckled softly. "Perhaps. I'll always be a part of your story. Just remember, you hold the power within you."

With that, the witch vanished in a swirl of light, leaving Olivia and Oliver standing together in their garden, feeling more united than ever.

"Did that really happen?" Olivia asked, her eyes wide with wonder.

"I think it did," Oliver replied, still amazed. "We talked to the witch, and she told us we're free now!"

Olivia jumped up, her heart racing with excitement. "This calls for a celebration! We should invite the villagers over for dinner!"

"That sounds perfect!" Oliver agreed, his face lighting up. "We can cook together and share our story. Everyone should know how love can conquer fear."

As they rushed inside, their hearts were filled with joy and hope for the future. They spent the rest of the day preparing their home for the celebration.

They cooked a big feast, filling the cottage with the smell of warm bread, roasted vegetables, and sweet pies. When the sun began to set, they invited their new friends from the village.

As laughter and chatter filled their home, Olivia and Oliver felt a sense of belonging. They shared stories of their journey, how they had escaped and built a new life together. The villagers listened in awe, inspired by their bravery and love.

"You two are amazing!" one villager said, raising a glass in a toast. "To Olivia and Oliver, who dared to follow their hearts!"

Everyone cheered, and Olivia's heart swelled with happiness. They were surrounded by friends who accepted them, who celebrated their love.

As the evening continued, Oliver took Olivia's hand and pulled her aside. "Can you believe this?" he asked, his eyes shining. "We did it. We're really free."

Olivia smiled, tears of joy filling her eyes. "I feel so lucky to have you by my side. We can be ourselves now."

He leaned in closer, their foreheads touching. "Always, Liv. I'll always be here for you."