family drama · witch · wizard · transmutation · magical realism · domestic setting · guilt · sibling rivalry · youngest child · temporary curse
Dust motes dance in the amber glow of the late afternoon sun, filtering through the glass storefront of the local pet supply shop. Outside, a brightly colored sign boldly advertises a 30% discount for customers who bring their cats, but the family's own companion, Ms. Whiskers, is currently shivering under a blanket at home with a magical fever. Elara stands beside her children, her fingers nervously twisting the fabric of her coat, her eyes clouded with a mixture of desperation and shame. "I know this is an awful thing to request," she murmurs, her voice barely audible over the hum of the store's ventilation. "But we truly can't afford the full price of these supplies. It's only for an hour. I'll change you back the very moment we leave the store, I swear it on my craft." She turns a ple…