Daughter of a Witch

Unexpected Guests and Unplanned Plans

Y/n stretched lazily, the scent of fresh coffee filling the cozy apartment she shared with Taylor. The quiet hum of the morning wrapped around her like a warm blanket, a brief respite from the whirlwind of wedding planning. The checklist on the kitchen counter was littered with colorful notes and sticky tabs, evidence of countless late-night planning sessions.

As the coffee machine sputtered its final breath, signaling the brew was ready, Y/n poured herself a steaming cup, savoring the first sip. But before she could fully relax, a sharp knock at the door echoed through the apartment, breaking the peace.

"Are we expecting anyone?" Y/n called toward the hallway, already frowning.

"Nope," Taylor's voice drifted back. Moments later, she emerged, her damp hair pulled into a messy bun, clad in a hoodie and leggings.

Y/n set her mug down and crossed to the door, opening it to reveal an impeccably dressed couple. Taylor's parents, Catherine and Douglas Harding stood on the threshold with their trademark, too-polite smiles. Catherine's eyes immediately began a subtle but thorough scan of the apartment as if mentally appraising every detail.

"Taylor, darling," Catherine cooed, stepping inside without waiting for an invitation. Her heels clicked sharply against the hardwood floor. "We thought we'd surprise you!"

Y/n blinked, stepping back to avoid being run over. Douglas followed suit, giving Y/n a cursory nod that felt more like a formality than genuine acknowledgment.

Taylor, frozen in place, stared at her parents, her posture going rigid. "Mom. Dad. What are you doing here?"

"We heard the news," Douglas said, smoothing down his tie as if he were about to give a business presentation. "You're getting married. We wanted to... help."

Taylor's jaw clenched visibly. "We're fine. Really."

"Oh, nonsense," Catherine waved dismissively, already surveying the room with a critical eye. "A wedding is a family affair. You need proper guidance."

Y/n felt Taylor's tension from across the room and instinctively reached for her hand, but Taylor didn't move.

Catherine's gaze landed on the scattered wedding notes on the counter, her nose wrinkling ever so slightly. "This?" she asked, gesturing to the colorful mess. "Is this what you've been using to plan?"

"Yes," Taylor said curtly. "Y/n and I have been handling everything."

"Well," Catherine began, folding her arms, "perhaps it's time for some... refinement. After all, a wedding requires more than just jotting down ideas. You need structure, coordination, a sense of class."

Y/n bristled at the condescending tone but kept quiet, glancing nervously at Taylor, who was clearly struggling to hold her composure.

"We have a planner," Y/n said softly. "And Taylor's been amazing at organizing everything."

Catherine's smile was tight. "I'm sure she has. But who exactly is this planner?"

Y/n hesitated, knowing exactly where this was going. "My mom's."

Catherine's eyes narrowed, and a thin, incredulous smile spread across her face. "Oh. Them."

Douglas chuckled dryly. "You mean the eccentric couple in Westview? Interesting choice."

Taylor's eyes darkened. "They're not just a 'choice.' They're family. And they've done more for this wedding than anyone."

"Of course, darling," Catherine said, her voice syrupy with insincerity. "I'm sure they've been... helpful. But weddings are serious affairs. You'll need professionals, not-" She paused, giving a pointed look. "Well, hobbyists."