Page 24

The embarrassment is almost worth it for the confounded expression on her face.

I choose my words carefully. I don't want to worsen the situation, which is an apparent talent of mine.

"I was hasty in my judgment of you, and I apologize for the way I treated you."

The admission is both difficult and freeing, and I feel like a weight has lifted.

Ivy's countenance doesn't shift. "You tried to have me banned from the island."

I cringe.

"Yes. I realize an apology isn't enough. If there's anything I can do to make amends, please don't hesitate to let me know."

A slow, mischievous smile spreads across her face.

"Oh boy," Conall says, glancing at his mate from the other end of the room.

"We need assistance setting up the movie night," she says.

I cross my arms. "Okay, and?"

"Help us set up the event, and I'll come help you with your electrical problem," she promises.

I bristle at the idea, breathing slowly in through my nose and back out.

"Forget it," Ivy snaps, misinterpreting my expression as she turns back to her work.

Will's bruised back comes to mind, and I swallow down my stubborn pride.

"Of course I'll help."

Ivy's eyes flick to mine, her eyebrows hitting her hairline. Conall actually walks back to the counter, staring at me as he leans against it.

"Why? Just to protect this pumpkin?"

I hadn't explained the spell.

"No, it's a bit more complicated. It's for Will."

"Oh yeah, I know Will. He comes in for fertilizer sometimes. He's very nice." She looks me up and down. "No offense, but I can't believe he's mated to you."

"None taken. I can't believe he is either. I'm very lucky."

Some of the tension leaves her face as she further scrutinizes me.

"I'll have to ask Colt to pick up the supplies from the mainland. I can set it up tonight. Is that okay?" Colt is the local ferry driver.

I blow out a relieved breath. "Yes, thank you so much."

She nods. "I'll see you for the movie."

Willoughby

Randy never decided to come out and discuss the placement of the autumn festival booths or the order of vendors in the parade, which is unlike him. When we'd gone our separate ways this morning, he said he was running some errands and walked into Ivy's.

He despises Ivy, so why was he in her shop?

The sinking feeling is too overwhelming to ignore, so when he came out and began talking to one of the other town counsel members a few feet off I slipped into the store, staying just inside to keep the thirty foot tether. The bell above the door tinkles as I head in.