Naughty Elf: Alfie (Santa’s Naughty Elf Mates)

2. Pisces

Chapter 2

Pisces

“It’s not looking good, Harold.” I frown at my spreadsheets as I clutch my pretty tortoiseshell kitty. He’s been my companion for five years and probably the only reason I haven’t given up on going after my dreams. But sometimes dreams are expensive and we have to make big scary decisions.

“One more year,” I whisper into his marble coat. “If by this time next year I haven’t made a liveable profit, then I’ll throw in the towel and get a job somewhere else.” Just the idea of going back to work for someone makes my stomach hurt.

“It usually takes at least five years before a business sees profits. Five years before they close. I’ve only been at it for four.” I nod and shut my laptop.

Harold meows and rubs his head on my chin before looking at me with his big yellow eyes, begging for treats.

“Come on.” I push to my feet and make sure not to trip over Harold as we make our way to our tiny kitchen. I love my apartment. It’s two bedrooms and perfect for Harold and me.

I grab a juice box from the fridge, then grab a few salmon flavored treats from the bag on top of the fridge.

“You know, everyone says Halloween is a good time to make magic. But Christmas is just as good. There’s all these good vibes floating around.” I squat to feed Harold his treats. “How about we go make some magic?”

I suck down my fruit punch, then wash my hands.

“I always forget to do magic. Ya know, it never hurts.” I rummage around in a drawer until I find my lighter. Then grab a few tea lights.

“Need some salt. And...” I look around for my favorite stone, rose quartz. “Oh! Citrine and aventurine. Always good for abundance and business.”

I frown again. “But abundance just means a lot. I need to dial things in. I want a lot of business, money...” I tap my bottom lip. “Happiness.” My shoulders drop. “I should be happy.”

Harold merows instead of meows as if he knows what I mean. I scratch his soft head. “You want for nothing, my little prince.” Petting Harold always brings me comfort no matter my mood.

“Come on, time to manifest, so I can afford to get you more treats and toys like the sweet prince you are.”

He trots along with me as I gather the rest of my supplies, then we head out onto our balcony. The cool, gentle breeze makes my long rabbit ears twitch and my puffball of a tail tickle. I probably should have pulled on a sweater, but it’s not even cold enough to snow. I breathe in the fresh air.

Harold’s collar jingles. We have an understanding between us. He doesn’t try to escape and I don’t put the harness and leash on him. So far it’s worked perfectly.

I have a small patio table that I swipe clean before putting down my candles and crystals and salt. I don’t actually need any of it. Spell work is about intention, the tools just help direct. I arrange my tea lights and crystals how I want them, then circle them all with salt. I’m not the best with words, but I say a few.

“Universe, hear my plea. I am a successful business owner by this time next year. Paying all my bills with profits from my shop Pieces of Pisces and having enough left over to have a life of adventure and ease.” That should do it.

My candle flames wiggle with a slight breeze and I shiver. Closing my eyes, I repeat the words. I swear it’s like heat drops right onto my head and flows down to my toes and into the earth below my balcony.

“Whoa.” I sit and appreciate the silent acknowledgement of the energy. At least that’s how I’m going to interpret my reaction, and not as a cold chill. But who knows? When I open my eyes, there’s a flash of light in the distance and a trail.

“Did you see that shooting star?” I ask Harold, who’s contently licking his paw. He stops and cocks a brow before going back to licking.

“I really think we worked magic. What did I tell you? Christmas is just as good as Halloween for spells.”

I push to my feet and stretch before bending over to snuff out the tea lights. It’s getting late and I have a big day in the morning with after Christmas sales. If I sell enough, it’ll help with the year’s profits.

I’m in bed in my rabbit form, snuggling with Harold, when my phone blares to life. Harold is completely unbothered as I bounce across the king-sized mattress and peek at my phone screen.

My heart sinks. It’s my alarm company. Please don’t be anything disastrous.