White Magick

1

Frustration loomed as I paced the floor, trying to figure out the best way to swing this argument in my direction. Despite all my best efforts to prove myself, once again I seemed to be coming up short, my desires falling just beyond my reach. Why was it so difficult to get anyone to treat me like an adult around here? Couldn't they see the situation warranted speed? It was time to stop dawdling around.

Glancing at Portia, I could see the hopelessness in her eyes, and knew she felt the same way I did. She lifted her shoulders in a slight shrug as if saying she didn't know what to do either.

Vance, Sean said. Calm down, son. Why don't you stay here and finish the rest of your senior year? I'll try to gather some more intelligence for you through my connections and see if we can find some solid news. Who even knows if this Darcy girl was being honest? he added, referring to information we'd received from the less than trustworthy witch from my late father's coven. She's a demon after all. There's no sense in running off halfway around the world without getting all the facts.

You have to be kidding! I retorted. I couldn't believe he'd want to put off something like rescuing my mom. There's no way in hell I'm going to sit here and do nothing while there's a chance she's alive and suffering. I'm going as soon as I can make the arrangements. Why couldn't he understand my need for haste? Who knew what she might be going through?

And what about Portia? he asked, changing his tactic. Are you really going to leave her behind again? Even after the way the two of you physically suffered through your connection before?

No. She's coming with me. I won't leave her. On this point, I wouldn't budge. There was no way I was going to risk the two of us being separated again, no matter how much Sean hated it, which, judging by his current expression, was a lot.

Oh, no she's not! he replied, his tone low and dark as he stared hotly at me. This conversation was quickly spiraling in a direction I hadn't intended. She's my daughter, and I'll say what she does Vance, not you! I'm not going to have the two of you running off together doing who knows what. Portia stays here.

Dammit! I was screwing this all up, and he was never going to agree to what I really wanted. Despite me bringing it to his attention, Sean seemed to conveniently forget what I'd been alluding to.

Dad, Portia spoke up in a soft tone. You're misunderstanding what we're asking.

Which is what? Sean asked, staring at her. I wanted to shake him. Why was he so insistent with pretending he was oblivious? He knew what I wanted.

We know how you feel about us being alone, but Vance is anxious about his mom, Portia continued. And you're right. It's tough for us to physically be apart. We don't want to be separated. So we thought to appease you, and help ourselves out as well, we'd ask your permission to let us get married now.

What? Sean jumped to his feet as Stacey gasped, leaving me to wonder if this was all a show for her benefit. I knew she was reluctant to even consider me marrying Portia. Not that I blamed her. My track record hadn't been the greatest, but that was all behind us now.

Think about it, Sean, I said, rising. If this was how he wanted to play it, then so be it. I had my argument ready. It makes sense. I know Portia is young, but you have to admit she's also very mature for her age. You know we're going to get married anyway, eventually. It's inevitable with the magical connection between us. I glanced between the two of them, changing tactics a bit. I'm trying to respect your wishes here regarding your daughter and her reputation. This seems like the wisest course of action. Why put off something that's going to happen anyway when it helps us both out in the end?

Sean stared blankly at me for a second. Absolutely not! His tone was softer though, which gave me some hope. Look, son. I know you're worried about your mom, but Portia still has a year and a half of school left. I'm not going to let her throw away her education to go with you. It's too risky. I think you need to stay here and finish the half year you have left as well.

Did he really think I was that much of an idiot? I wasn't so stupid that I didn't have a solid plan. I'd already been lining my ducks up. We've already discussed this, I said, referring to the discussion Portia and I had before this. I've contacted a tutoring agency and researched all the particulars. The tutor will help me with testing out so I can get my diploma and will get Portia caught up on everything so she can pick up right where she left off. Both of us have excellent grades, so catching up shouldn't even be an issue. I paused, but when neither of them said anything, I continued on. I've done my research, Sean. We aren't running into this like a couple of stupid lovesick kids. I took Portia by the hand, pulling her to stand with me. We want to respect your opinions, and we'll abide by whatever you decide. We just want you to hear us out and have an honest, open-minded discussion with us.

Sean stared at Stacey for several moments, before she gave a slight shrug. Sighing, he sat beside her. All right then, let's hear it.

Relief flooded through me. If they were willing to continue the discussion, I knew I could win them over; otherwise, it would be a hard no at this point. Portia squeezed my hand in encouragement, and I glanced at her, unable to hide my feelings for her.

I love your daughter more than anything. I glanced back to Sean and Stacey. You're both young. I'm sure you remember what this feels like. I see the way the two of you look at each other.

I wasn't above flattery or bribery to make this happen. I'd do whatever it took to make Portia legally mine. I watched the two of them as a brief smile flashed between them, confirming this was definitely the right way to approach this conversation. Sitting back down, I plowed ahead, determined to make my dreams of a life with Portia a reality. There was nothing in the world I wanted more.

Portia squealed as we stepped into the hall. She threw her arms around me, kissing me soundly on the lips. I can't believe it! You actually convinced them! Her eyes positively sparkled with joy, and I was sure mine mirrored them.

Two days, I replied, burying my face in her great smelling hair. Closing my eyes, I relished the feel of her in my arms. Two days until you're officially mine.

She leaned back so she could stare at me, her smile wide. I know! I'm so excited! She slid her hands to my face, kissing me again before jerking back abruptly.

What's wrong? I asked, puzzled by her sudden change in countenance.

Oh my gosh! There's so much to do!

I grinned. Like what?

We need to rent a place, call people in Sedona, and I need to find a dress, she rattled off. What if we can't do all this on such short notice?

Portia, we're in Vegas, the land of spur of the moment weddings, I reminded her. Trust me, everything will be fine. We'll call one of the wedding chapels and have them arrange all the particulars. All you need to worry about is finding your dress. Brad, your dad, and I can go get some tuxes while you go shopping with the ladies. I assume you'll ask Shelly to be your maid of honor? I'm asking Brad to be my best man.

Of course. She's going to be so excited! Portia giggled. "I'm so excited."

Me too, I said with a chuckle, her enthusiasm contagious. Why don't you go tell her the good news. We need to get moving.

She kissed me one more time, and I slapped her shapely butt as she ran off down the hall, unable to keep the grin off my face as I eyed her retreating form. Personally, I'd be content to just make out with her until the wedding. I didn't give a shit what we were wearing, who witnessed it, or whether or not we had decorations. Portia could be naked as far as I was concerned.

I chuckled to myself, allowing that mental picture to form in my mind before giving a sigh. Turning to go into my room, I found Brad staring at me with his arms folded, leaning in the doorway.

He shook his head. I can't believe you got them to say yes.

I told you to stop underestimating me, I replied, holding my fist out toward him. Best man?

He bumped my fist, a smile spreading across his face. I should say no just so you don't get your way once in a while, but you'd probably trick me into it anyhow.

I laughed. Whatever. You're just jealous.

I am. Very. He didn't even try to hide it.

A round of squeals echoed down the hall, and we both glanced in the direction. Sounds like Shelly just found out, I said.

Brad smirked. Yep. I'm sure it's all I'm going to hear about. More swooning over Vance and Portia, he added in a facetiously high tone as he clapped his hands together. Yay! He bounced on his feet, mimicking Shelly in her excited mode, before abruptly stopping, giving me a deadpan look.

I couldn't help chuckling. He nailed it. So, keep her mouth busy doing other things, I suggested, clapping him on the shoulder as we turned to go into our room.

Hmm. There's an idea.

I shook my head. You need to be more aggressive, dude.

I'm plenty aggressive, he replied wryly.

I laughed. No, you aren't.

Just because I'm not humping my girl against every wall we pass like you do, doesn't mean I'm not aggressive.

I grinned widely. Not every wall.

"Every wall, he reiterated. Having the two of you as best friends is like having my own porn membership."

I laughed loud. Whatever, jackass.

Seriously. Look in a mirror once in a while. You'll see.

I shrugged. It wouldn't change anything. Although mirrors do sound fun.

He rolled his eyes. I give up. He dropped onto his bed.

Exactly my point. You give in too easily.

Sorry. I didn't realize decorum was so offensive, Mr. PDA.

I laughed again. Come on. Get your shoes on. We need to go shopping.

Perfect. He sighed and grabbed his sneakers. You know how much I love to shop.

Hey, you're getting a free tux out of it. Shelly won't be able to keep her hands off you.

Okay, you've got a good point there, he finally conceded.

See? You'll benefit from me getting hitched too.

I still think you're the luckiest bastard I know.

I couldn't wipe the grin from my face, feeling like I'd won the lottery or something. Right now, I'm inclined to believe you, buddy.

2

Nervous energy radiated through me, and I peeked out the door for the umpteenth time at the small chapel filled with guests. Most of them were coven members and their families, but there were also a few of Portia's friends from school and some guys from my mechanics class. I was happy to see a guy I did regular business with, Laramie Jackson, who'd helped to outfit half the coven with new athames from his knife shop, as well as making custom metal work for motorcycles I worked on. I wondered who the pretty girl was sitting next to him? I'd have to ask him later. Good for him! I was all about romance today.

I had to admit I was surprised that so many people had been able to make the trip on such short notice, though. It made me feel good that others wanted to be here for this. I wanted Portia to have her dream wedding. Shutting the door, I moved back to the mirror, rechecking my tie.

Dude, you've got to stop pacing, Brad said from where he casually reclined in a chair with a can of soda like he didn't have a care in the world. You're making me dizzy.

Sorry, I muttered, checking my black tux one more time. I just want everything to be perfect.

You worry too much. Portia's going to take one look at you and probably faint. He stared at me, shaking his head. Damn lucky bastard.

I grinned. I am, aren't I?

Lucky enough you should probably buy some scratcher tickets. You'd probably win the lottery—oh wait, you already won. And you weren't even trying. Again, damn lucky bastard.

I laughed, knowing he was referring the fortune I'd just inherited from my very evil, very dead father. I don't want the money. I glanced at him. Name a price. I'll write you a check.

One hundred thousand dollars, he spit out with a grin.

Done, I replied.

He eyed me nervously. I'm totally kidding, man. I don't want your money.

I shrugged. What else am I going to do with it? Might as well give it to people I love.

Did you just say you love me? Brad raised his hand and waved at his eyes as he blinked rapidly as if he was trying to preserve his mascara. Man, he had these Shelly impressions down pat.

I snorted. You're such a dick.

Dropping his hand, he laughed. I love you too, bro.

Sure, you do. We both chuckled, and his phone buzzed. He glanced down to check it. He didn't realize I was completely serious, though. He'd have the money in his account before the night was through. It was the least I could do for a fantastic friend. He'd stuck by me through thick and thin. It would be an honor to help him out financially. What good was money if you couldn't spend it on the people who meant the most to you?

Shelly says it's time for you to take your place.

Just like that, thoughts of money went out the window, replaced with nervous energy. I glanced in the mirror one more time, checking my mussed hairstyle.

Brad rose, taking me by the shoulders and steering me toward the door. You look fine, Cinderella. Let's go.

I took a deep breath and nodded, opening the door and walking out. Stepping up onto the dais, I shook the minister's hand and smiled, as organ music filled the air.

You ready? he asked with a wink.

Beyond ready, I replied, standing tall next to Brad. I smiled out at the sea of faces, before my eyes lit on the double doors at the back of the room, waiting with anticipation.

Stacey appeared on the arm of an usher, smiling as she was guided to her seat beside Milly at the front of the room. She gave me the thumbs up sign as she was seated, and I was happy she seemed excited. I'd worked hard to win her over.

I heard Brad's intake of breath when Shelly appeared in the doorway. She looked stunning in a long, red, satin dress that hugged her figure. Damn, he whispered, before straightening as if he just remembered we were in a chapel.

The doors closed behind Shelly, and we watched her come down the aisle, before taking her place on the opposite side of the podium. Once she was situated, the organist deftly switched songs, beginning the familiar notes of the wedding march.

I didn't think it was possible, but my heart increased in tempo as the doors slowly swung open, revealing my beautiful bride standing there with Sean.

Dear lord above! She is spectacular! I thought to myself. I felt like my face was going to split in two, I was smiling so hard.

Portia stepped forward, her eyes locking with mine, and I really knew I was the most fortunate guy on this planet. Sean patted her hand as he led her forward as if trying to comfort her. She was just as nervous and excited as I was. I could feel her energy bouncing off me.

I couldn't drag my eyes away, and I didn't want to. I wanted this moment forever emblazoned in my mind. Her dress clung to her body in all the right places, snug on the top before dropping at the hips into a billowing skirt with a train. Her black hair was swept up into curls, with tiny diamond pins glittering through it, a long, straight veil hanging from the back. I was so happy she hadn't chosen to cover her face. I wanted to see all of her reactions, from start to finish.

Though her approach didn't take long, I couldn't wait, stepping down to greet her so I could take her hand and help her up a couple of steps. I couldn't stop staring as she slipped her trembling hand in mine, and I gave her a reassuring squeeze, having never felt surer about anything in my life.

My heart soared, gravity unable to contain it. My past worries and problems fell away, and all I could see was my future, shining before me like a beacon from the eyes of the girl I adored.

I love you, I whispered into the private mental link we shared. Everyone else in the room melted away. It was only her now.

I love you, too, she answered in the same fashion, and I felt her emotions bursting through me, almost tangible as they heated me inside.

Dearly beloved, the minister began, but I couldn't look at him. Portia had me captivated, every soft breath, every beat of her heart matching my own. The words of the ceremony were lost on me, vague mumblings in the back of my mind as I stared at the beauty in front of me. She represented everything wonderful, pure, and amazing about the world. She was my freedom, my escape, my wishes, my dreams, all wrapped in the most incredible package. There weren't enough words to describe my feelings for her. She was my everything.

She began speaking, and I hung on her every word. Vance, I give my heart to you completely. Her voice shook a little, but it only endeared her to me even more. My love is my gift to you, never shaking, and unfailing. I promise to always stand by your side through thick and thin, to be your helper and your companion. I bind myself to you before God and man, promising to always support you in life and love, even into the next life. I love you. She gripped my hand tighter, emphasizing her words.

Now it was my turn. Staring intensely into her eyes, I opened my heart wide, letting my energy surge into her. Portia, I love you with all my heart. Words fail me when it comes to describing the depth of my feelings for you. You complete me in every way imaginable; you're everything about me that is good. When I eat, sleep, live, it's always with you in my thoughts. I accept your love and promises, offering mine to you in return. I promise to always love and support you in all your endeavors as we join together as husband and wife. I will love you for eternity.

This time, the minister had my full attention. Do you, Portia Mullins, take Vance Mangum as your legal and lawful husband? Do you promise to love, honor, and care for him from this day forward?

Her gaze was unwavering as she stared at me. Yes, she answered, and I never realized how much weight one word could hold.

Do you, Vance Mangum, take Portia Mullins as your legal and lawful wife? the minister continued, causing hope to bloom through my chest. This was really happening. Do you promise to love, honor, and care for her from this day forward?

Yes, I replied, adding my word to hers.

Do you have the rings? he asked, and I turned to Brad, who dipped a hand into his pocket and retrieved the wedding band I'd picked for Portia, while she handed her bouquet off to Shelly and got my ring from her.

Portia, place the ring on Vance's left finger and repeat after me. With this ring, I thee wed, in front of God and these witnesses.

Her hand shook, and I smiled as she slid it over my finger, repeating the words of the minister. I loved the weighty feel of it there and what it symbolized to me.

Taking her small fingers, I slid her ring on, stating the same vow as she. With this ring, I thee wed, in front of God and these witnesses.

The minister laid his hands over ours. Let it be known these two are now joined together in the eyes of God, the eyes of the church, and in the eyes of man. What God has joined together, let no man put asunder. He removed his hand and glanced between us, smiling. I now pronounce you husband and wife.

Joy burst through me at his words, and I couldn't wait one more second. Dragging Portia into my arms, I kissed her deeply. I couldn't stop smiling, even during the kiss, and everyone began clapping and cheering.

Portia's face was flushed when we broke apart, and we both laughed as we turned to face everyone.

I present to you Mr. and Mrs. Vance Mangum, the minister proclaimed loudly, to more cheers.

Taking Portia by the hand, we went down the aisle and out the door. Greedily, I drew her into the first room to the side, shutting the door behind us. I grabbed my girl, my wife, and gave her a scorching kiss. I couldn't help running my hands over her back, wanting to touch her everywhere I could, unable to get enough of her. She wrapped her arms around me, a totally willing participant, and everything seemed so surreal.

I broke away after several moments, just needing to take another look at her. I stepped back, my gaze raking over her from head to toe and back again. Wow! You look amazing! I've never seen anything that looked so good in my life.

She blushed, staring back at me. I was just thinking the same thing about you.

I cupped her face, gently running my thumb over her beautiful lips, unable to believe my good fortune. I love you.

I love you, too. She smiled up at me, and I wanted to whisk her off to our hotel right now.

Dang reception, I grumbled, not even wanting to bother with it when there were so many other things I wanted to do.

Portia laughed, shaking her head as she touched my cheek. Patience, Vance. The time will come soon enough, as I am sure you know, but right now we have guests.

They can wait, I said, pulling her against me. I was a helpless romantic, unable to not kiss her. Devouring her lips, that incredible mouth, I couldn't get enough. I didn't think I'd ever be able to get her close enough, even if she melted inside me. I couldn't hug her tight enough, kiss her long enough. She made me feel desperate and crazy inside but in the purest kind of high.

Come on, Vance, she said breathlessly. We've been in here kissing for a while now. Let's go to our reception before something starts you won't want to stop.

Too late, I replied honestly, grinning. I'd drag her to bed right this minute if she'd let me, but I also wanted her to have the wedding of her dreams. While I honestly didn't mind the party waiting for us, to me, the important part was done. I was ready to get on with it.

Portia slipped her fingers into mine and wisely dragged me to the door before I could assault her again. The wedding coordinator was waiting for us outside, but she just smiled, as if this kind of thing happened every day. I guess maybe in her world it did. Portia briefly went to the bride's room to touch up her lip-gloss I'd kissed off, and the two of us made our way to the reception hall to greet our guests.

Please, welcome Mr. and Mrs. Vance Mangum! the DJ's voice boomed over the microphone as we entered the lavishly decorated space, covered in red roses.

Yeah, I was never gonna get tired of hearing that.

3

The role of the lovesick fool is now being played by Vance Mangum, I thought to myself, pretty sure every guest at this reception was thinking the same thing about me. I didn't care. Not while I watched my pretty wife eat dinner. Not while I studied her reactions to conversations with others. Not while I held her way too close on the dance floor. Not even when her dad whisked her out of my arms, leaving me staring after them while he danced with her. Especially not while I was feeding her wedding cake, pausing to lick some frosting off the edge of her pretty bow-shaped lips. I couldn't take my eyes off her. She had me completely mesmerized.

The DJ started playing a new song, and the lyrics caught my attention. I couldn't help but sing along in my head. I gotta feeling . . . that tonight's gonna be a good night. Hell. Yes.

Can we get out of here now . . . please? I asked Portia, more than ready to go, not that I hadn't been having a great time. I just couldn't wait to have some much-desired privacy with my beautiful new wife.

Smiling, she nodded, her eyes sparkling. Absolutely. She held her hand out to me. Lead the way.

I took it but stepped over to the DJ and asked for a mic. I'd like to thank all of you for making the trip here on such short notice to support us this evening, but the time has come for us to say goodnight. Feel free to stay and enjoy yourselves for as long as you'd like. I handed the mic back and glanced at Portia, already noticing people gathering by the door to send us off.

Holding her hand tight, I half jogged to the waiting limousine, wanting to discourage any last-minute hugs as we left. Shelly was prepared, throwing glittery confetti at us as we passed, and we both laughed as it scattered around us. I held the car door open for Portia, and she happily waved one more time at everyone and climbed inside. I smiled and waved too, before joining her.

The privacy glass was up, and the driver already had his directions. It was finally just the two of us. Portia had some glittery specks on her cheeks and hair, and they sparkled in the dim interior lighting, making her look like some kind of magical fairy. She really was my fairytale princess, and I couldn't resist her any longer.

Slipping an arm around her waist, I dragged her closer, pressing my lips against hers with a moan. My heart raced, and again, that feeling of not being able to get close enough consumed me. I kissed her long and hard, molding her body to mine until she started laughing.

Breaking apart, I smiled at her as she placed her hand on my chest, pushing me back a bit as she blushed.

Damn,