Strings of Fate

Strings of Fate

Cam 32- Relaxing and reacting

I pause for a fifteen minute break after the dinner rush ends and immediately head into my work room where I can relax. I don’t even bother complaining when Harry follows me in there. I really ought to bring some actual chairs in here, but it’s not a huge room and I need all the space I can manage for my potion making. Still, I feel a little bad when, with a type of fluid grace I could never manage, he settles himself down on the floor with his legs crossed.

“So, are you planning to answer the texts from your mum?” He asks. I weirdly appreciate that he is genuinely asking. He’s not pressuring me to answer her, in fact I don’t think he has an opinion either way, or at least if he does he isn’t forcing it on me. I’m tempted to ask him what he thinks I should do. If I should ignore her, call her, talk to her or just cut her off entirely. But it wouldn’t be fair to put a question like that on him. Harry is a very bold person, he would probably just insist that I don’t need them and encourage me to never talk to them again. I know that’s probably what I SHOULD do, it would definitely be EASIER, but I

just don’t know that I’m ready to take that step just yet.There has to be a reason my family are so insistent on my marrying Simon, some detail that I’m missing that makes it all make sense. I KNOW they’re not terrible people and I KNOW they love me. Or at least I’m fairly

sure…

“I don’t know. I’ll figure something out.” I tell him glumly.

“Fair enough, let me know if I can help at all.” He offers cheerfully. I search around for something else to talk about. Harry seems to sense my floundering and once again he comes

to my aid.

“What about that guy you said you were going to email about the magical themed decor and stuff, did you ever hear back?” He asks. I leap at the chance to talk about something easy.

“I have no idea, let me check my emails.” I perch myself on the workbench and open the mail app on my phone. I’m pleasantly surprised to find that my silent partner has actually

answered for once.

“Good morning Camille,

Thankyou for reaching out regarding your intentions for a re–design/ re–decorating of our shared business. As you have proven yourself very competent thus far in managing the

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Cam 32- Relaxing and reacting

business, I am happy to let you pursue whatever direction you believe is appropriate for its

idea is

development. While your a little controversial, I believe it is likely to be very profitable and I trust

when you’re just starting out. Keeping this in mind, if you were to send me a summary of what you have planned and your proposed budget, I am happy to assist with funding within reason.

look forward to hearing

Regards,

-M

sure it’s on the documentation somewhere, but even his signature was incomprehensible. Still, he’s a good partner and he lets me do as I like as shown by his response so I’m alright

trust in my decision, I will put together a plan and get it to you

Thanks again,

Cam

turn to Harry, absolutely

to his feet, strides towards me, hooks me under the arms and spins me in a circle.

over or break something!” I demand. Harry laughs and does as I ask.

to celebrate with you.” He does look a little apologetic but not regretful in the slightest. I cross my arms

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32- Relaxing and reacting

dangerous,

right, I didn’t think about that. I’m sorry.” He apologises again but this time I’m. happy

Since

sore while I’m working I’m on my feet the whole time. I groan

know if you want a hand with that. I’ll have you know I’m great at giving massages.” He says this completely seriously and finishes with a

the ground in front of me, grabs my left ankle and begins massaging my sore calf. My first instinct is to yank it away… but damn

work not to stare at him as he methodically runs his fingers up and down my leg, relaxing the muscles and occasionally pushing into a particularly sore spot. He seems very focussed on his task. I have to fight the urge to squirm in place, even though he’s only touching my calves and it’s through my jeans and everything. He moves onto my other leg after a couple minutes and I start to feel his magic creeping through me, getting me all worked

half yell. Harry immediately lets go and

his head to the side.

with it. You didn’t say no when I started.” He is frowning to himself, trying to work out where it went wrong. I continue to glare

you manipulating me?!”

what? I just wanted to help you feel better. How is that manipulating you?” He asks. I shake my head, completely disgusted at myself and slide off the bench.