The Magical Meow-sical Mystery
A Willowbrook story for Patrons
Hello, magical reader. This is a free short story for paid subscribers of Nyx Halliwell’s Cozy Corner that can be enjoyed over a cup of your favorite brew or before snuggling down to sleep. ☕️💜
I’ve added an audio recording of the story at the end. Enjoy! (And if you’re not a paid subscriber and would like access to the full story + audio, as well as other bonuses, you can upgrade here: https://nyxhalliwellauthor.substack.com/subscribe?)
Willowbrook, a picturesque town nestled between rolling hills and lush forests, exudes an enchanting charm with its cobblestone streets and cozy cottages. This welcoming community is a place where the magic of everyday life flourishes.
In the heart of Willowbrook, anticipation fills the air as the town prepares for its annual spring talent show. Among the performers, the star attraction is Harmony Purrington, Willowbrook's most talented singer and the reigning champion of the talent show for the past three years.
Ember, the town librarian, and her boyfriend Oliver, an aspiring artist, are helping decorate the outdoor stage in the town square. Ember's kitten, Clover, is ‘supervising.’
Their fun turns to concern when news spreads that Harmony has fallen ill, leaving the fate of the talent show hanging in the balance.
Ember and Oliver search for Harmony to check on her and inquire about her sudden illness. In the bustling town square, they find her reclining on a bench, looking green around the edges.
Ember, with Clover nestled in her arms, greets Harmony with a worried smile. "Harmony, what happened? You look like you've seen a ghost!"
Harmony lets out a weak chuckle. "Oh, Ember, it's a long story. Let's just say I had a run-in with some not-so-purrfect cookies.”
Ember's eyes widen. "Cookies made you sick?”
"Well, you see," Harmony says, her voice wobbly, "I was at Mrs. Grayson's Enchanted Emporium and she had a tray of cookies on the counter for tomorrow’s bake sale. They looked so delicious that I couldn’t resist sneaking one. You know how I love her baked goods.”
“Me, too,” Oliver says, rubbing his belly.
Harmony continues. “I thought they were just regular cookies, but they turned out to be... well, let's just say they had a little extra kick."
Oliver leans in, intrigued. "What kind of kick? Extra chocolate chips? Cinnamon? Cardamon?"