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Sassing Her Dragon

Dragon Guard Series #18

by

Julia Mills

There Are No Coincidences.

The Universe Does Not Make Mistakes.

Fate Will Not Be Denied.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Cover by Linda Boulanger with Tell Tale Book Covers

Edited by Lisa Miller with Angel Editing Services

Proofread by Tammy Payne with Book Nook Nuts

Formatted by Charlene Bauer with Wickedly Bold Creations

Milly – THANK YOU SO MUCH! I had a blast writing in your Sassy world! Can’t wait for more! YOU ROCK!!

Melanie – Thank you for EVERYTHING! You are an amazing woman, friend & author.

My Readers – YOU MAKE MY DAY! THANK YOU from the bottom of my big old southern heart!

DEDICATION

Dare to Dream! Find the Strength to Act! Never Look Back!

Thank you, God.

To my girls, Liz and Em, I Love You. Every day, every way, always.

Index of the Original Language of the Dragon Kin

Sassing Her Dragon

Mo chroi’………. My heart

Mo ghra’………. My love

Mo stór………. My darling

Mo a thaisce………. My treasure

Mo maité………. My mate

Mo Dragon………. My dragon

Is brae liom tú………. I love you

Mo mac tíre beag………. My little wolf

Mo maité mac tíre………. My wolf mate

Mo Dragon beloved………. My beloved dragon

Mianach gconaí………. Always mine

Anois………. Now

Gconaí………. Forever

Fiach Dubh………. Raven

Deartháir………. Brother

Mo mac tíre álainn………. My beautiful wolf

Mo mac tre beag milia………. My sweet little wolf

Mo a ghrá geal………. My bright love

Mo a chéadsearc………. My only love

Mo a mhuirnín………. My darling

M’fhiorghrá………. My true love

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER ONE

CHAPTER TWO

CHAPTER THREE

CHAPTER FOUR

CHAPTER FIVE

CHAPTER SIX

CHAPTER SEVEN

CHAPTER EIGHT

CHAPTER NINE

CHAPTER TEN

CHAPTER ELEVEN

CHAPTER TWELVE

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

SASSY MATES

ABOUT JULIA

ALSO BY JULIA MILLS

Chapter One

“Looks like you might be stayin’ an extra day or two,” Barbara Wolfe tapped the table with her pen. “That rain might just be here to stay.”

“Yeah,” Olivia sighed, staring at the thunderstorm raging just outside the window as she ached to return home. Her brother Marrok, the Pack Alpha, had only been home a few weeks after being kidnapped and tortured by one of the most treacherous huntresses the paranormal community had seen in centuries.

When Marrok had first appeared with a hellhound and a siren in tow, all three in need of healing, Olivia speculated about her brother’s sanity, but as the story of their abduction and suffering was told, it became clear why the Alpha brought them home with him. Olivia had been amazed at the hunters’ skill at catching such a wide variety of shifters and supernatural beings, as well as, the tale of the Dragon Guardsmen who were wholly responsible for her brother’s rescue and safe return. With all the upheaval in the shifter world, Olivia could only hope this would show the wolves of not only her pack, but the rest, that they could trust other species and that alliances needed to be formed for everyone’s benefit and survival.

During her time in leadership of the Gaelach Lán Pack in her brother’s absence, Olivia had seen and heard so many differing opinions she could only pray that her brother could bring resolution to their people. She hated to leave him so soon after his return but it was imperative she travel to the lands of the Wolfe Pack to complete a treaty they had been working on for over a year. It would solidify safe passage through Barbara and Tristan’s lands to the west for  Olivia’s pack and likewise guarantee any member of the Wolfe pack smooth travels through Gaelach Lán lands on the east coast.

Thankfully, everything had gone well. There had only been a few things both packs were forced to compromise on that Olivia had no doubt the Wolfe’s truly didn’t care about but had still been adamant about to exert their power because, she had done the same thing.

Wolves…we are a crazy bunch…

But now that things were settled, the she-wolf wanted to return home. She couldn’t shake the uneasy feeling that things in her world… personally… were about to change… and she wasn’t sure it was all going to be for the good. Ever since stepping foot on Wolfe Pack land Olivia had been uneasy, distracted, and couldn’t shake the feeling of being watched. Her wolf wouldn’t settle, jumped at every noise, and paced endlessly even when the woman was trying to rest.

She chalked it up to the stress of leadership while Marrok had been gone, too many nights without sleep and being away from her ancestral lands. But as she watched the rain pelt the already saturated earth and listened to the thunder rolling through the mountains, Olivia couldn’t help but look to the horizon for any signs that would explain the threat of impending change stirring within the depths of her soul.

“You don’t sound too thrilled about hanging out with us,” Tristan, Barbara’s mate teased. “We’re not so bad, ya’ know?”

Turning from the window, Olivia plastered on a smile and chuckled, “Oh, it’s not that…I just don’t leave home much.”

“I know what you mean,” Barbara nodded, “We’re all creatures of habit and love our own territory.” The Pack Leader narrowed her eyes. “You’re still single, right?” She asked with a knowing smile.

Not sure where the conversation was going and not willing to lie to the woman she’d just made the biggest deal of her life with, Olivia nodded her head, “Yes, ma’am, I am. Just haven’t found the right wolf yet.”

At the confirmation of her single status the wolf she shared her soul with growled in her mind. For some reason her furry alter-ego didn’t take kindly to the thought of mating, but Olivia didn’t have time to think about the lupine’s issues as Barbara stood and continued, “We’re planning to run tonight to check the mountain ridges. With all this rain I want to make sure we’re not gonna find ourselves knee-deep in mud before it’s all over. There’ll be a few single males.” She glanced at her mate with a look that made Olivia wonder what the Alpha female was up to but let it pass as the Pack Leader added, “We also need to check the borders. Rain storms like this lead to interlopers.”

There was definitely more to the story and any other time Olivia and her wolf would hate running in the rain, but on this occasion, it sounded perfect. Maybe it would help with the restlessness and tire them both out enough to finally get a good night’s sleep.

Nodding, Olivia answered, “Sounds good to me.”

“Great,” Barbara called over her shoulder as she exited the conference room. “We’ll leave after dinner, between eleven and midnight.”

“See you there,” Olivia answered, turning back to the window and once again getting lost in thought as she watched the raindrops bounce in the standing water. Hours later, as the sun began to set, she finally pulled herself away, went to her room to check her messages and to change into something more appropriate for dinner.

It wasn’t a surprise that the screen of her cell phone was filled with missed calls, voice messages and texts from not only her brother but her best friend and pack mate, Star.

She smiled thinking of her bestie, named for the patch of star-shaped black fur that adorned an otherwise light grey wolf. Star was born exactly a week after Olivia and they had been like sisters from that day forward.

Then there was Isabella, Izzy to her friends, the third in their ‘Trio of Terror’ as Marrok called them. She had come to them, hurt and orphaned after a rogue attack on her pack. The ebony wolf with bright blue eyes had taken immediately to Olivia and they had been fast friends ever since. Although Izzy hadn’t called, Olivia had no doubt that if she listened to one of Star’s messages she would find them both talking at once, trying to catch Olivia up on absolutely everything she’d missed while traipsing across the country.

Starting with Marrok, she hit the button and waited for him to pick up her return call. “Hey sis, how’s it going? Everything okay? Were the Wolfes okay with my absence?” Marrok’s low baritone nearly shook the phone with his exuberance.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa, one question at a time,” Olivia chuckled. “Sounds like you’re feeling better.”

“I am. Thanks. Now, tell me what’s going on. I’ve been calling for the last two hours. You are the absolute worst at answering your phone.” She knew he was joking but it was also the truth, Olivia hated her phone and left it behind whenever she could. Thankfully, the Wolfes had a ‘no electronic device’ policy during negotiations and Olivia quickly used that as her excuse. “Sorry, bro, no phones allowed in meetings here,” she laughed, “And then I took a bit to watch the downpour that is holding me hostage for at least the next day or two.”

Because of their familial connection, Olivia knew Marrok could feel how much she wanted to come home as much as she could feel his desire to have her there but as usual, her big brother put a smile in his voice as he encouraged her, “Rain sucks but a few more days of sub-ninety-degree weather with no humidity has got to be worth it. It’s really heating up here.” There was a pause where she heard him shuffling papers as he switched ears and then he was straight to the point, “Now, tell me, is the treaty a go? Did you have to give any additional concessions?”

“Of course, it’s a go,” She answered. “You do remember who you’re talking to, right? Seriously, who could resist my charm?”

“Would you like them listed alphabetically or numerically in order of importance?” Marrok snorted. Olivia imagined the huge grin on his face and once again thanked the Heavens for his safe return. The thought of living out the next thousand or so years without him had been truly terrifying.

“Whatever, I know you sent me because you knew I was the right wolf for the job, so I’ll take your crap…for now.” She stopped to laugh as he scoffed then added, “Yes, it’s done and there was a bit of negotiations but it was all power plays. I gave up nothing worth having.”

“Good girl.”

Olivia grinned at Marrok’s double entendre because she knew he was well aware that he was truly the only person in the world who could get away with saying it, then responded the way she always had. “Woof…woof…”

Laughing out loud, her older brother joked, “And even in the rain she’s still got it. Excuse me a minute, sis.” She listened as he moved the receiver away from his mouth and spoke to Finn, the Pack Beta and Marrok’s best friend since they were pups.

She wondered if Finn, the grey and black wolf with charcoal eyes and quick smile had been keeping everybody company in her absence. Olivia had asked him to check in on the elderly and convalescing while she was gone because of his naturally happy demeanor. Everyone loved Finn because he was the wolf with a heart of gold….unless it came to witches, and then all bets were off.

There had been a time when her parents were alive that every member of their pack thought Finn and Olivia would be mates, but as soon as puberty hit it was obvious they were nothing more than good friends. Olivia still cringed thinking of the first and only time they’d tried to kiss. Talk about awkward. It was like kissing a cousin… wrong and disturbing.

Marrok’s voice pulled the she-wolf from her thoughts as he said, “Okay Sis, if everything’s good on your end, I’m gonna let you go. Seems like we’ve got a little dispute between the young males.”

“Better you than me,” she snickered. “I settled enough of those while you were gone. Those boys are crazy.”

“I know what you mean, but it’s all hormones and,” he stopped and she could tell he was smiling when he added, “They’re gonna make great warriors with a little discipline and training.” 

Rolling her eyes even though she knew he couldn’t see her, Olivia scoffed, “Yeah, yeah, yeah, so you keep telling me.”

“I remember a little she-wolf who was just a bit too big for her claws when she was in her teens. If I recall, she took her lumps and is a better wolf because of it.” Olivia had to admit that she loved when Marrok got all brotherly. Since her parents death when she was young, he had pretty much raised her and was the only father figure she remembered. That, however, did not mean she wasn’t going to give him a hard time every chance she got. They didn’t call her Sassy Wolf for nothing.

“Whatever,” she snorted, trying to keep from laughing out loud as she added, “Raising me was a walk in the park.”

“And now I know the altitude has made you delusional,” he laughed. “Love ya, kiddo. Holler at me when you’re on your way home.”

“Love you too, Marrok. Will do.”

After hanging up with her brother, Olivia thought about calling Star but after looking at the clock on the wall she realized there was time for a nap. One hour was all she needed to feel refreshed and ready to deal with wet fur and muddy paws.

Once the lights were off and she was under the covers, the sound of the rain hitting the roof instantly lulled her to sleep. Just as it had been for the last few months, Olivia’s dreams seemed to be waiting to transport her to another world with a man whose violet eyes made her feel things she’d only ever dreamt of.

This time she was in wolf form, stalking her prey through the dense darkness of the forest, the feel of rain on her fur and mud squishing between her pads, making her feel at one with her surroundings. Hunkered low to the ground, she watched the soggy white tail of the rabbit she had in her sights zigzagging through the brambles praying to evade its inevitable demise.

Waiting until she could hear the heart of her quarry fluttering like that of a hummingbird, sure the little guy was close to exhaustion, Olivia burst through the bushes, tore across the forest floor and leapt upon the hare. Squealing as she held the small animal between her feet, the she-wolf reveled in the crunch of bones and the spray of warm blood down her throat as the shrieking abruptly ceased.

Enjoying her treat while the clouds overhead rumbled and lightning streaked across the sky, the she-wolf’s satisfaction was cut short as a whisper, barely audible and hanging onto the breeze with every deep, dark syllable, tickled her senses, demanding to be heard. Raising an ear, she soon realized the haunted voice was in her mind, calling, begging...

“Oh, little wolf… I feel you… just out of reach…” The silence that followed was almost unbearable, causing Olivia to abandon what was left of her kill, rise to her feet and slowly pad towards the sound of waves crashing against the rocks.

“Come closer…little wolf…” The stranger’s voice startled the she-wolf to a complete stop. Raising her snout, she sniffed the air, her ears falling back against her head as the hypnotic voice asked, “Will you come?... Will you end my torment?”

Torment? What was the voice talking about? How was she going to help? It was just a dream and at present, she was a wolf. After several long minutes of internal debate, curiosity got the best of the auburn wolf and soon she was tracking the voice, waiting for yet another word.

Reaching the cliffs, she carefully walked along the edge, looking down at the angry waters battering the rock walls, searching for the man whose voice called to not only her wolf but also the heart and soul of the woman. Carefully placing one paw in front of the other, she followed the narrow path leading to the jetty just outside a cave at the base of the cliff.

Every step she took was an answer to the mystery man’s pleading. “Please…” he begged. “It’s been so very long…”  

Emotions the wolf wasn’t accustomed to came in waves as she felt the man struggling to stay conscious. Making it safely to the water’s edge, she placed first one paw and then the others on the flat surface of the breakwater. The wolf scented the air while listening for sounds of movement before walking towards the dense darkness of the cave.

The pads of her paws slapped against the stone slashing water on the backs of her legs as she slowly made her way into the cave. The farther she crept into the darkness, the closer she felt to the haunting voice but still so far away. The fur along her spine stood on end as she stopped mid-stride in response to a harsh pounding beating at her consciousness.

On and on the sounds of a fist hitting wood continued. The she-wolf bowed her head to escape the deafening sound while still trying to maintain contact with the mysterious man who so desperately needed her help.

All too soon, it was Olivia not her wolf who realized the pounding was coming from outside their dream. Sitting straight up in bed as Barbara Wolfe bellowed, “You better get up and come downstairs. Food doesn’t last long around here,” Olivia shook her head and ran her hands down her face.

“Sorry, I must’ve fallen asleep. I’ll be right down.”

“See you there,” Barbara snickered as Olivia listened to the Alpha female’s retreating steps.

Throwing off the covers, Olivia shuffled to the bathroom and freshened up. Looking in the mirror, she was surprised to see the image of her wolf still present in her eyes. Reaching for her toothbrush, she lurched forward, dropping the toothbrush and grabbing the porcelain to stay up as her wolf ran against the confines of her mind.

“What the…” Olivia wasn’t able to finish her thought as the low, melancholy voice from her dreams pleaded, “Please do not leave me to perish…”

Chapter Two

It took all of Olivia’s considerable concentration to stay engaged in the conversation over dinner. It was nice to meet Barbara and Tristan’s kids and their mates. She especially hit it off with Ellie, the Wolfe’s only daughter and loved how she answered to her oldest brother’s nickname of Little Pup. Her commitment, protectiveness and love for her family was present in her every action. Olivia was glad to see someone else as committed to those she loved as she was. The Wolfe children’s interactions reminded her a lot of her relationship with Marrok and was apparently obvious by Ellie’s remark of, “So, you and your brother are pretty close, huh? Hard being away from home?”

Surprised by Ellie’s comment but answering almost immediately, Olivia nodded, “Yeah, he raised me after my parents were killed in a territorial dispute with a pack of vamps when I was a pup.” She stopped, thought for a second then added, “I’m not sure if your mom told you, but he just recently returned after being kidnapped and tortured by an evil family of hunters and their troops.”

“Yeah, she told us. I was freaked that they could get the jump on an Alpha like your brother. I’ve heard stories about him.” She raised her eyebrows before continuing, “He’s not somebody I’d mess with,” Ellie gave a sarcastic chuckle and leveled her gaze before adding, “Well, unless he messed with my family, then I’d have to kick his ass. Nobody messes with this motley crew but me.”

“You got that right. I wish I’d have gotten a chance to tear into the evil bitch who experimented on Marrok,” she sighed, trying to keep her temper at bay. “But my brother got his licks in before the dragons took her out and well, that worked for me, too. As long as she’s dead and can’t hurt anyone else.”

“The dragons, huh? We had one here a while back. Thought they were all gone before he showed, but I guess there are more around than we realized.”

“From what Marrok said, there are quite a few. They’re just not as public as we are. From the stories, I guess they’ve got some ancient enemies who just won’t go away. Something about the strength of their dragon magic and their link to the Universe that the bad guys really want to get a hold of.” Olivia chuckled to lighten the mood, “Guess that’s what happens when you’re ancient and legendary.”

“No shit,” Ellie snorted. “Give me some fur and paws any day.”

“You know it,” Olivia agreed as Ellie scooted closer and whispered, “So, has mom tried her match making skills on you yet?”

“No, why?”

Leaning back with a grin on her face and still speaking in a hushed tone, Ellie snickered, “Mom can’t stand to see anyone single. She didn’t rest until every one of us was mated.” The blonde she-wolf with short spiky hair motioned to her brothers and their mates sitting around the table engaged in various conversations. “I just figured she’d set her sights on you when she said you were running with us tonight.” Ellie went on, “I also heard her on the phone telling a few of the single males to come along.” Winking as her smile widened, she added, “That’s a sure sign she’s up to her old tricks.”

Olivia was just about to comment when Barbara announced, “Y’all ready?” She looked out the huge window on the opposite side of the dining room. “This rain isn’t going anywhere. We might as well get out there, get wet and get this over with.”

There was a collective groan as everyone stood and followed Barbara and Tristan through the house and out onto their huge front porch. Olivia noticed six large, attractive males running from their trucks as Ellie turned and whispered, “You can hang with Caleb and me if you want.” She grinned, “Not only is the terrain a little crazy if you’re not used to it but it will keep those guys,” she motioned with her head over her shoulder, “from making any unwanted advances. I have been known to embarrass them all a time or two.” The she-wolf’s eyes danced and Olivia knew she and Ellie could be good friends if there wasn’t a whole country separating their homes.

“Sounds good.” Olivia agreed as magic filled the air and one by one the Wolfe family and their pack donned their fur and paws.

Following suit, Olivia called her auburn she-wolf forth, shook to fluff her fur and padded towards the white wolf with brilliant blue eyes she knew to be Ellie. She watched the three huge black wolves, two brown and one grey, the ‘single males’ Barbara had invited, continually look back over their haunches at her.

It made her feel uncomfortable, out of place and all together irritable. No one knew better than Olivia that her curves had curves and she would never be walking the catwalks in Milan but over the years she’d become comfortable with the size of her hips and ass, as well as her abundant chest. ‘Thirty-eight DD’s ain’t for sissies, you gotta be sassy’ had become her motto but she still shied away from the attention of males she didn’t know.

The taunts from grade school of ‘Rollie Pollie Ollie’ never really left her memory but were luckily always followed by her recollection of Marrok and Finn, along with their male pack mates, kicking the shit out of whoever dared to mess with her. It hadn’t taken long until she was the one doing the ass kicking and Marrok was the one playing clean up.

It had taken a while, but Olivia had come to terms with her figure and could care less what others, especially short-sided egotistical men, thought about it. That, however, did not stop the little tendrils of doubt from sneaking past her defenses when placed in situations where she knew she was on display.

A yip from Ellie’s wolf and they were following the rest with Caleb leading the way. The feel of the rain on her fur and the ground beneath her paws led Olivia’s thoughts to the dream she’d had a few hours before. The forest around her looked so familiar and there were even rabbits running to escape the big bad wolves just like in her imagination.

Traveling deeper into the forest and closer to the mountains that lined the Wolfe Pack’s territory, Olivia knew she was being watched. She could feel the eyes of at least two of the wolves Barbara wanted her to meet sizing her up. Undoubtedly, they knew she was the sister of an Alpha, one of the biggest, most domineering Alphas in the country, who was known throughout the packs as a true leader who didn’t take any shit from anybody, especially when it concerned his little sister. It was one of the only reasons they were taking their time and not making an outright play for her attention. That and the fact that as far as she was concerned there was no attraction at all. Their scents were musty and old, like a wet dog. Their eyes didn’t sparkle or shine. Not even their tales curled when they looked at her. No, they weren’t her mate, they just wanted to have a good time and later say they had fucked the sister of Marrok Kilbride.

Olivia had never been an easy lay and wasn’t about to start. Sure, she scratched the itch when her heat came. That was an undeniable fact of nature. She had friends with benefits in her own pack who she felt comfortable enough with to have sex and still remain close. So far, neither of them had found their Fated Mate either and as far as Olivia knew, they weren’t looking. Neither was she…really.

If some sexy wolf whose scent made her wet and whose wolf could stand up to her own happened along, she wouldn’t say no, but until that happened, single was alright with her. Of course, that didn’t explain the feelings of change she couldn’t shake or the haunting voice in her dreams. Maybe it was just like Marrok had teased, too high an altitude, not enough oxygen.

Bringing her attention back to their scouting party, the she-wolf watched Tristan, Barbara, two of their sons and mates head to the west, the six male wolves head north, Ellie’s other two brothers and their mates take the south, while she followed Ellie’s yips and the nod of the white wolf’s head to follow she and Caleb to the east. Any other time, Olivia and her wolf would’ve been bitching about the rain and the mud but on this night, it was calming, as if they were communing with nature, bringing a peace to their souls that hadn’t been there since before Marrok’s disappearance.

No sooner had the words crossed her mind than the man from her dreams returned. “Little wolf…where did you go?”

This time the voice was more persistent with an olde world accent she couldn’t quite place but that was more pronounced than from her dreams. Before thinking, she responded, “Who are you? What do you want?”

“Please… please come to me…”

“Yeah, right… and where would that be?” Yes, she was being obstinate and sarcastic but really? A disembodied voice calling for help? Her imagination had gone off the deep end with this one.

Just as Olivia was about to throw up her mental blocks to keep whoever was messing with her out of her head, the sound of a howl, calling to all the wolves in the area, rang through the trees, immediately followed by Ellie’s voice in her head, “That was Mom.  Something’s wrong.”

Taking off at full speed, Olivia followed Ellie and Caleb across a large clearing, through a part of the forest that from the way the brambles and foliage were overgrown hadn’t seen much traffic in recent years, over the mountain and pass and right up to the foot of a ridge that only a few hours earlier had most definitely had mud sliding down its banks.

Shocked to see everyone in human form, Olivia quickly followed suit and made her way to where Mason, Aric, Nathan, and Jake, Ellie’s four brothers, were looking into a sinkhole while discussing how to get to the bottom. Stopping next to Ellie as she asked, “What in the hell are you looking at and why did Mom howl like that? I thought someone was dead.”

Aric, the tall, wide-shouldered brother who was mated to a pretty strawberry-blonde named Jordan, held his mate’s hand tight while he pointed, “Cause somebody just might be.”

“Oh shit!” Ellie and Olivia gasped in unison as Caleb pulled Ellie closer to his side.

“Yeah, oh shit. Do you recognize him?” Aric asked. 

Shaking her head, Ellie looked at Caleb who said, “No,” and then to Olivia who shrugged and quickly answered, “Never seen him before.” Although she had to admit to herself that there was something familiar about him.

“Well, you need to get down there and see if he’s alive,” Barbara ordered, her sons and son-in-law all nodding as they kissed their mates and began slowly sliding into the hole.

Aric was the first to reach the man and after a quick touch to his neck hollered, “He’s alive, but in a helluva state.”

“Can you tell what pack he belongs to?” His father asked in a gruff tone with the amber glow of his wolf shining from his eyes.

“He’s not wolf.” Aric sounded suspicious as he added, “He’s shifter but definitely not wolf.”

“Get him up here and let’s see what’s happened,” Barbara Wolfe once again took control of the situation. “He needs our help.” She looked at her husband and patted his shoulder. “We’ll worry about the rest when he’s conscious.”

“Okay, mom,” the four Wolfe brothers answered before discussing how best to get the large man, who looked like he’d been through a hell not a mudslide, up to the surface.

It took some maneuvering and quick footing that only someone with paranormal blood could perform, but finally almost an hour later, the five male wolves had reached the top of the hole and laid the man on the ground at Tristan and Barbara’s feet. His long dark red hair was tangled and matted with mud and leaves. He had a beard so long it touched the middle of his chest and a mustache that curled under his upper lip. It was obvious the scraps of clothing covering his body were old and had been threadbare before the mudslide.

Olivia’s feet moved forward of their own accord. There was just something about him, something different, unusual… special. The closer she got, the more in sync with the slow beat of his heart hers became. She breathed when he breathed. She looked past the dirt and filth to the strong line of his jaw, his high cheek bones, his almost pouty upper lip peeking through his dark, wet whiskers and the wide set of his shoulders.

Stopping with the tips of her boots almost touching his arm, Olivia knelt down and before she knew what was happening, brushed the hair from his brow and ran the back of her fingers down his cheek. Recognition shot through both woman and wolf – first one word and then another.

Dragon! Mate!

Chapter Three

As much as Olivia wanted to talk to someone… anyone, about the man they’d just found lying half dead in the mud, there was no way she was going to tell the Wolfes that he was her mate. She really liked Ellie but knew the lovely blonde wolf was loyal to her family, just as she should be, and not someone Olivia could confide in, at least not yet.

The treaty between Gaelach Lán and the Wolfe Pack was still new. Their relationship still being tested. It wouldn’t do for them to think she’d had some clandestine rendezvous planned on their lands with one of the legendary dragons.

Nope, not opening that can of worms.

The best she could do was take a deep breath, get to her feet and as calmly as possible say, “I think he’s a dragon shifter. He sure smells like the clothes my brother was wearing when he got home and I know they were from one of the Guardsman who helped rescue him.” 

There, no lying… just a far bit of omission.

Everyone except Ellie accepted her explanation with a nod, but the curvy blonde continued to eye Olivia all the way to the Clinic Tristan had set up for his pack. William, a wolf in scrubs the Wolfe family called uncle, confirmed that the man was indeed a dragon shifter before rushing him away to get cleaned up and examined.

Ellie’s hand on her shoulder startled Olivia from her thoughts as the she-wolf said, “We’re gonna head back to Mom and Dad’s. It’s almost sunrise and I’m beat.”

“I think I’ll stay here,” Olivia replied, scolding herself for answering so quickly as Ellie narrowed her eyes and bit the side of her lip.

“Do you know him? Is he one of the dragons who helped your brother?” The she-wolf asked.

Olivia could feel Ellie’s scrutinizing gaze as she responded, “No… I mean… I don’t know.” She hurried on, “Marrok didn’t describe them except to say they were dragons.” She stopped and looked down the hall as two wolves dressed in scrubs exited the double doors at the end of the hall where her dragon had been taken.

My dragon? Oh my goddess, I need to have my head examined. Wonder if the Wolfe’s have a psychiatrist on staff?

“Then why…”

“Just let her stay, Hun. It’s no big deal.” Thankfully Caleb interrupted, putting his arm around his wife before adding, “Besides, she can call us with updates. Your dad’s going to want to talk to him as soon as he’s awake. We need to know where he came from and why he’s here. I’ll have Connor bring her some food and fresh clothes.” He winked at Olivia making her quickly put two and two together and realize that Connor was one of the single male wolves and probably from Caleb’s pack.

Needing to let them know in her own way she was not interested in any male wolf, Olivia quickly replied, “Thanks so much, but I can grab something from a vending machine and my clothes aren’t that bad.”

She was lying. They knew she was lying and weren’t buying it, but were nice enough not to call her out on it. Olivia thought about apologizing. She had no doubt if she said ‘I just don’t want to deal with an overly testosterone-laden male looking for a quick hookup’ that Barbara Wolfe would’ve been offended, and if there was one thing Olivia had learned in her short stay with the Wolfes, it was that you do NOT piss off Barbara Wolfe.  

So, the auburn-haired wolf quickly pointed at the couch in the waiting room and added, “I’m gonna lay right there and take a nap after I contact Marrok. Maybe he knows how to get a hold of the dragons and they can come get their guy.”

Wolfe heads were nodding in agreement as Barbara gave her a hug and said, “Alright dear. Do what you must, but I’m sending someone with food. You need to eat.”

“Yes, ma’am, thank you.”

Olivia watched the Wolfe family exit the waiting room and then the building, finally letting out the breath she’d been holding and thanking the goddess for some alone time. Turning on her heel, the she-wolf made her way back into the waiting room, where she grabbed her fourth cup of coffee then sat on the couch to decide who to contact first.

If she called Marrok, there would be so many questions she wasn’t ready to answer. On the other hand, if she called Star there was no guarantee she would keep her mouth shut. Izzy would keep Olivia’s confidence but worry herself sick. They were both great friends, just not at a place in their lives where they could handle much more than their own issues. When Olivia would say something to her brother about it, he would say that was the difference between being an Alpha female and a Beta. Olivia’s response was always from one of her favorite superhero movies… with great power, comes great responsibility, which always made Marrok laugh.

Oh, this just sucks. I need to talk to someone.

Leaning back into the overstuffed leather sofa, Olivia let her head fall to the side and her eyes slide shut. She needed to think, needed to be sure she wasn’t losing her mind before she brought anyone else into her drama. Playing back the events of the night before, she thought about the voice in her head. Was it him, the man from her dream? Didn’t it have to be? It only made sense. He truly was in a state and most definitely needed her help, but why not come to the Wolfe’s or any of the other hundred or so other wolf families from the Wolfe Pack running around their territory? Why hang out in the forest, in torn clothes, barefooted, and call to a woman you don’t know?

Because he’s your mate… duh… accept the facts. 

Ignoring her inner voice, Olivia continued putting the pieces of the puzzle together. There was no denying his scent, hell his very being, the man and his dragon had called to her wolf just like all the stories she’d ever heard. It had taken all the woman’s strength to keep the beast from bursting forth and staking her claim on the dragon she believed to be hers.

Neither being needed a Scenting Ceremony to know that the aroma of smoky cedar filling their senses and making the she-wolf want to drop to the ground and roll around like a randy pup signified their Fated Mate – the one the Universe had made just for them. It just didn’t make sense. A dragon?

She wasn’t a snob or an elitist. Had no qualms with the legendary dragons, it was just that Olivia Kilbride had always thought of herself being mated to a big burly wolf. It was her comfort zone. She knew what to expect from a wolf… but a dragon? That was a stretch, even in her wildest imagination.

More tired than she could ever remember being, Olivia soon drifted to sleep and was immediately transported to a mountaintop overlooking the ocean with the noonday rays of the sun dancing across its subtle ripples. Strong arms wrapped around her waist, soft lips kissed just behind her ear as a low rumble filled her mind, “Hello, mo mac tire beag. I missed you so when I awoke and you were gone.”

Turning in his arms, she looked deep into the vibrant violet eyes of her mate. She loved when he spoke in the native tongue of their ancestors. Combined with his deep, rumbling baritone and sexy accent, it was irresistible. She couldn’t imagine a time when he wouldn’t take her breath away. Leaning into his embrace, Olivia sighed as his lips met hers. She opened completely, reveled in the arousal racing through her veins as their tongues danced in a sexy tango.

Desire filled her being, growing stronger, more profound with every second. Whimpering with need at her mate’s bold advances, their hearts beat as one as her dragon stoked the flames of want and desire with his every touch.

Spinning their bodies while maintaining their embrace, Olivia soon found her back against the cool of the stone behind her and her legs wrapped around her mate’s waist. Her panties were immediately soaked with her excitement as her mate rolled his hips between her thighs, teasing her throbbing clit feeding her overwhelming need to come. Raking her nails down his back, feeling the ripple of his dragon marking under her fingertips, Olivia held him close, digging her hands into the taunt muscles of his ass to keep him in place.

Tearing his lips from hers, her mate nibbled along her jaw and down her neck as he slipped one hand under her bum and pressed his hips tighter to her center while his other hand traveled between her legs, ripping the silk of her panties and sliding two fingers into her already slick pussy. Olivia mewled as he fucked her with his fingers, turning her arousal into desperation.

Shoving her hands into his long silken hair, the she-wolf pulled his mouth back to hers, and bit his bottom lip before sucking his tongue into her mouth. His resulting growl spurred her on as she rode his fingers with wild abandon, her orgasm careening towards her like an out of control wild fire. The pad of her dragon’s thumb found her clit and with little more than a touch Olivia was screaming her release as untold pleasure spread throughout her body.

Not giving her even a minute of respite, her mate pulled his fingers from her pussy, let her wobbly legs slide down his body and spun her around, caging her in with his own body and placing their combined hands on the boulder before her. Moving one hand from hers and sliding it between their bodies, Olivia heard the telltale whine of his zipper a second before his lips were once again at her ear whispering, “I must have you, mo chroí. I must feel you wrapped around me, joined as one. You are my everything. You are mine.”

His words ended just as his calloused hand rubbed down the globe of her ass, slipped into her pussy and out again just before the head of his cock slid into her sleek channel. Her nails scratched at the rock as in one slow glide, her dragon filled her so tightly she felt him in every fiber of her being.

Their bodies fit together like the pieces of a puzzle. His chest was plastered to her back as he kissed her shoulder, whispering of his undying love and their eternity together. Pulling back, followed by a quick thrust that forced fire to rush through her veins and Olivia was lost to the pleasure. Over and over her mate thrust into her, forcing all thought from her mind, pushing her back to the edge of pleasure she had just fallen over mere minutes before.

Needing to come more that she needed to breathe, Olivia begged, “Please… please, mo Dragon beloved…”

“Yes, mo ghrá. Yes. Mianach gonaí.”

She couldn’t stop the smile that crossed her lips as he called her his love and stated she would always belong to him. Their love was so complete, so beautiful, at times not even she could believe how blessed she was.

His hands closed even tighter over hers as he growled, “Say it! Say it, now!”

Her body closed even tighter around his as he drove in and out of her with such force the words spilled from her lips, “Yes, yes, mo ghrá…yours, always yours.”

Her words pushed some button deep within her mate. His strokes became frantic. His cock branded her as his for all eternity a mere second before she was flying high, the intensity of her orgasm stealing the breath from her lungs. Sure nothing could feel any better, Olivia suddenly felt his canines sink into the flesh of her shoulder. The mixture of pleasure and pain shattered whatever control she had been holding onto. Lights, like fireworks, burst behind her closed eyelids. She screamed and moaned and begged. Her nails extended into the claws of her wolf and fur replaced hair on the side of her face and the backs of her hands. One final thrust and her dragon was roaring so loud the ground beneath her feet shook.

“Mine! Anois! Gcónaí!”

Her pussy sucked him deep inside, her body loving the feel as he bathed her insides with his warm semen. She never wanted to be anywhere but in his arms. Mini orgasms continued to rock her core as his cock slid from her pussy and he spun her around.

Kissing her like she was the most precious thing in all the world, her dragon lifted her into his arms and started down the trail towards their home. “Oh, mo ghrá, my Olivia…”

“Olivia Kilbride?... Miss Kilbride?”

A hand on her leg had Olivia jumping to her feet, juggling her empty coffee cup and shouting, “What the hell?”

Blushing as she saw the grin on William’s face. Praying she hadn’t been talking in her sleep, Olivia shrugged, “Sorry. Guess I was more tired than I realized.”

“That’s quite alright,” he replied, touching her arm and pointing to the couch as he continued, “Have a seat.” Once they were sitting he asked, “Do you know this man?”

“No, why?”

“He keeps calling your name and then in Gaelic, which by the way I haven’t heard for more years than I want to admit, he says my little wolf.”

The doctor stared, waiting for the explanation Olivia didn’t have. It was unnerving, especially after the dream she’d just been pulled from, which is the only excuse she had for staring back and biting her tongue. She feared if she opened her mouth everything she was thinking would just spill out and there was no doubt in her mind it would lead to tragic consequences.

After a few seconds of looking at one another, William stood and motioned for her to do the same. “What about you come back and see our patient? Maybe you can get more information than we’ve been able to.”

Nodding, she followed the doctor into the hall just as all hell broke loose. The lights flashed overhead, a voice called ‘Code Blue’ over the loud speaker at the same time a nurse with long dark hair ran out the double doors yelling, “William! William, come now! It’s the dragon! He’s not breathing.”

Olivia stood completely still. Her heart skipped a beat. There wasn’t enough air in the entire building. It felt like the world was suddenly moving in slow motion. Stumbling to the wall, she gasped as a low rumble filled her mind.

“Help me, mo mac tire beag. Please… help me…”

Chapter Four

Fear, cold and unforgiving, ran its icy fingers down her spine. Visions of the man, the dragon, from her dreams filled her mind. Was it him? Could it be? Were Fate and the Universe stepping in, taking control? How could all this be happening? If she ever got home, Olivia swore she’d never leave again. The world outside Gaelach Lán territory was freaky beyond compare even on its best day.

Pacing the hall, peeking through the clouded windows on the doors clearly marked with a large bright yellow sign stating ‘Authorized Personnel Only’, she prayed the voice, her dragon, if that’s who it was, would speak again. Not knowing whether he was alive or dead was driving both woman and wolf crazy. No amount of good old rationalization could calm either one.

Olivia had tried telling herself, as well as the large auburn wolf presently trying to burst forth and make her presence known, that they hadn’t even met him yet. Didn’t even know if he was truly ‘the one’. Reasoned that he was a dragon and there was no way the Fates or the Universe in their infinite wisdom would mate a wolf with a dragon. Singed fur and scales between her teeth didn’t sound appetizing in the slightest. But no amount of internal banter could stop the growing feeling within her heart and soul that this man… this stranger… this dragon, was theirs and that life as she had known it would never be the same.

Finally, after wearing a path from the exit doors to the double doors, Olivia made her way back into the waiting room, gave into her need and called her brother. After getting his voice mail three consecutive times, she tried Star and once again listened to a prerecorded message that made her want to scream. Izzy, like Olivia, never carried hers, so there was no reason to even try.

Olivia thought about using their mental communication, but if they weren’t answering their phones then it stood to reason that they were busy and she most assuredly needed their undivided attention for the bombshell she was about to drop. It was no use, she was on her own. It was time to put on her big wolf fur and buck up.

Jumping back to her feet, Olivia had just started to pace when she ran right into Ellie. “Whoa, there girlie. What’s up?” The blonde chuckled, grabbing Olivia’s arms to keep them both from falling. “I got a call from Natalie, the receptionist. She said our stranger wasn’t doing well.” Then she nodded to the bag in her hand. “And I figured you needed some fresh clothes and maybe some of Mom’s awesome leftovers.”

Opening her mouth to say she wasn’t hungry at the precise moment her stomach growled so loud both women burst out laughing, Olivia shook her head, “Guess I am hungry.” She stepped back. “And clean clothes would be great.”

Taking the bag, Olivia began to explain, “I have no clue what’s going on with the dragon. William came to tell me…” she quickly decided not to tell Ellie that the dragon had called her name and instead said, “the guy was awake. He asked if I wanted to talk to him, to see if he knew Marrok.”

Ellie was nodding her head but had that look in her eyes. The one that said she knew there was more to the story and she was bound and determined to find out. Rushing to keep the conversation going in an effort to keep her new friend from prying, Olivia went on, “William was taking me back to see him and…” She looked towards the door, remembering how it had felt like her world was crashing to a fiery end before continuing, “In the blink of an eye someone was yelling over the intercom, alarms were going off and a nurse hollered for him to come because their patient wasn’t breathing. That was almost four hours ago and I’ve heard nothing.”

Olivia worked hard to keep her tone neutral with just the appropriate amount of concern but none of the mixed feelings of longing and need wreaking havoc in her heart and soul. Apparently, Ellie wasn’t buying it because her next move was to pull Olivia in for a huge hug and commiserate, “I’m so sorry you had to go through all that alone.” Pulling back but keeping ahold of Olivia’s upper arms, Ellie added, “Were you able to talk to your brother?”

Shaking her head and stepping back, Olivia sighed, “No. All I get is voicemail.” She plopped onto the couch. “I’ll try again later.”

As if he’d somehow sensed she needed his help, Marrok chose that moment, as inopportune as it was, to return her call. Pressing the green button on the screen, she lifted the phone to her ear and as cheerily as she could chirped, “Hey, bro…”

“What’s wrong? You never call me more than once and always leave a message. What’s happened? Do you need me to come get you? Olivia, dammit, answer me.”

Marrok had interrupted and was speaking so quickly all Olivia could do was listen until he took a breath, then as only a sister can answer a brother, she rolled her eyes and with an exasperated sigh said, “You have to shut up for me to answer.” She looked up at a snickering Ellie and smiled at her new friend before continuing to her brother. “No, I don’t need you to come get me. Nothing has happened to me. I was calling to see if you knew how to get in touch with the dragons.”

“The dragons? Why?” He sounded surprised, but infinitely calmer than he had been a few seconds before.

“Well, I went out with the Wolfe’s to check their borders after all the rain Mother Nature decided to dump on us and while we were out there they found a man buried in the mud.”

“No shit? And he’s a dragon?”

“You got it in one.” She winked as Ellie mouthed she was going to see if she could get information about the dragon’s condition then added, “Since I had explained that you were rescued from hell by a group of Guardsmen, the Wolfe’s wanted me to see if you knew how to contact them. I’m sure by now your new friends are looking for this guy. He appears to have been out here for a while.”

Her brother was silent. She heard him breathing, could tell he was thinking and waited until he finally asked, “And why are you so worried?”

“I’m not,” she answered way too quickly with way too much enthusiasm which was confirmed when Marrok chuckled, “Yeah, try that one again and this time remember who you’re talking to.”

Once again rolling her eyes, wanting to tell him everything but not wanting anyone to hear, she used the code they’d been using since she was a little girl and they discovered their ability to speak to one another mind-to-mind, “Don’t mind if I do,” then went on speaking her thoughts while keeping the phone to her ear like she was listening, “I don’t really know. There’s just something about this guy.”

“What do you mean ‘something’?” Was Marrok’s growled response as Olivia prepared to tell him what she believed was happening.

“Oh, hell, Marrok, I don’t know.” She sighed. “Just something…” Rushing on, finding it hard to not scream, she added, “something weird, something unsettling, something that is driving me crazy and making it impossible for me to walk away.” She took a deep breath. “There! Is that what you wanted to hear? That your little sister is losing her mind? Do you feel better? Do you now know why I called three times but left no messages? Are you satisfied?”

Knowing she was being completely unreasonable, irrational and screeching like a loon, Olivia stopped, seething, needing to pace, but staying put and waited, tapping her foot, for Marrok to answer. It took almost a full minute and when he did she could hear the smile in his voice, which only served to irritate her just that little bit more but she still listened.

“I’m pretty sure you’re not losing your mind and I’m absolutely positive you know that. I’m also gonna take a leap and guess that you’re sure or at least almost certain that this dragon is your mate.” He paused, leaving Olivia waiting on pins and needles to hear what was to come, not wanting to give him any more information that he could use against her.

He only wants what’s best for you…

Ignoring her conscience, she was just about to speak when Marrok finally continued, his tone less jovial but still very brotherly, “Have you scented him?”

“Yes.”

“Have you spoken to him, at all?”

Blowing out the breath she hadn’t known she was holding, Olivia decided to just blurt out what had happened and pray that Marrok didn’t have her thrown into the wolfy insane asylum. “Okay, here’s the thing. I started to have these dreams…”

“Whoa, do I want to hear this?” Marrok chuckled, obviously trying to lighten Olivia’s mood but only irritating her all the more.

“Shut the hell up and ewww.” Completely blocking out her dream as not to let anything embarrassing slip, she prayed her brother couldn’t hear the little white lie in her voice as she sighed in disgust, “They were nothing like that, perv. Seriously, you need a girlfriend.” Huffing to further drive home her point, she then added, “Most of the time it was just a feeling. I would dream and be restless. I blamed it on all the chaos with you being gone but then I got here and… well, things got worse.” Stopping, she walked to the door to see if anyone was coming. When she found the coast was still clear, Olivia took the phone from her ear and put it in her pocket, before heading outside, continuing to talk when the cool air hit her face, “I’d heard his voice…calling to me. Asking for help.”

Walking along the sidewalk to the far side of the Clinic, Olivia counted her steps as she waited for her brother to respond. The longer she waited the more worried she became about what he was going to say. Turning the corner just as Marrok began to speak, Olivia walked to the bench under a tall elm tree in the middle of a bed of flowers and sat down, listening intently.

“Well, Little Sis, it looks like you’ve found him… your mate.” She knew he wanted to say more but was waiting until they were face to face. “You don’t suffer the hunger like our males but from everything I’ve heard and seen, you’re exhibiting all the signs. If it wasn’t meant to be a wolf, I admit I’m glad it’s a dragon. They’re good people. At least in my limited experience. Have you spoken to him?”

“No, that’s the part I was getting to.” She took a deep breath. “He was unconscious when we found him and carried him to their Clinic and then he was semi-conscious and calling for me but something happened. He stopped breathing. That was four hours ago and I’m still waiting to see if he’s even alive.”

“What are you waiting for?”

Marrok sounded irritated, so Olivia popped right back, “Because the big yellow sign on the door says authorized personnel only and I’m not authorized. What the hell else am I supposed to be doing?”

Listening through her frustration, Olivia heard her brother take a deep inhale wait several seconds then let it out. She imagined him sitting at his huge oak desk, leaned back in his mahogany leather chair with his dirty old boots crossed on his desk, a frown on his face and his brows furrowed as he counted to ten to keep from snarling at her. When he did speak, his tone was lower than usual with a tinge of his wolf riding the tone. “You use the connection, the bond, you share with your mate to see how he is, help him, lend him your strength and that of your wolf. If you scented him and he spoke into your mind, your connection is strong… use it. I don’t know how dragons recognize their mates or how all that works for their species but for ours, you know damn good and well you have rounded third and are heading to home.”

Hating that he’d used a sports analogy when discussing her future, Olivia let it slide and conceded, “Okay, I know you’re right. I have no good excuse except… well… I really didn’t think this was how it would all go down or that I would find my mate before you found yours. I was depending on you to blaze the trail, just the way you always have.” She stopped to have a mini pity party complete with a ‘hrmph’ and a pout, then added, “Guess I better…”

“Please… mo mac tire beag, come to me…”

“What the fuck?” Marrock bellowed.

“My thoughts exactly,” Olivia growled. “Welcome to my world.” Jumping to her feet and racing towards the Clinic’s entrance, she added, “Oh yeah and meet your new brother-in-law.”

Chapter Five

Running through the doors and down the hall, Olivia came to a screeching halt when she reached Ellie and William, who stopped talking and looked up at her in surprise.

“Hey, I was just about to come find you. Our patient is calling for you, again.” William patted her arm. “It was touch and go but he’s a fighter and for the most part we had to just let his dragon do the healing. I do have him hooked up to an IV with fluids and one with antibiotics that I know will cause no harm but other than that, dragon physiology is out of my realm of knowledge.”

The doctor stopped, slid his eyes towards Ellie and after her slight nod, he looked back at Olivia. “Before you go in, I want to prepare you for the way he looks. After washing away all the dirt, grime, and mud, I was surprised to find extensive scarring from at least seventy-five, eighty years ago, all the way to what appears to be just a few months back.” He gave her arm a little squeeze. “I think some of them will heal now that he’s no longer being abused or tortured or whatever…” His words trailed off as he took a deep breath. “I just didn’t want you to go in there unprepared.”

Nodding, she thanked him then added, “I just really wanna know why he’s calling me and if I can help get him back to his people.”

It was only a little white lie but one that stung her tongue and made Ellie’s brow furrow and her lips purse.

Guess, she’s not buying my story either…

“What did your brother say?” Ellie asked, looking straight into Olivia’s eyes.

“Just that he would contact the dragons who’d helped him and tell them what was going on.” So, he might not of said those exact words but she knew Marrok and there was no doubt in her mind he was already making contact with the Guardsmen.

Turning to go see her dragon, Olivia added, “I’ll call him back as soon as I’m done here and see what he’s found out.”

Not waiting for Ellie’s answer, Olivia followed William through the mysterious double doors. Antiseptic and the smell of illness assaulted her senses. It was weird, like she’d crossed some threshold from the land of wellness to the depths of the sick and afflicted. Shaking it off and telling her wolf to calm down for the hundredth time, Olivia barely held back her gasp as William moved the curtain aside and revealed the man they’d unearthed almost a day before.

Slowly walking to his bedside, Olivia took in the long angry slash that started under his left eye, dissected his cheek and disappeared under the edge of his strong jawline. Her eyes continued to the mosaic of tiny white lines that covered the side of his neck, blanketed his shoulder becoming little more than shadows on his bicep. Being a paranormal, she had rarely seen scars except on her human friends. The only thing she knew of that would hurt any shifter to the extent the man before her had obviously been injured was repeated and unrelenting use of silver.

Goose bumps rose on her arms at the mere thought of the pain he must’ve endured. In another world, staring at the dragon, Olivia jumped and squealed when William said, “There is even more scarring on his torso and legs,” as he gripped the edge of the blanket.

Throwing her hands in the air, Olivia stammered, “No…no need for show and tell. I believe you.”

Looking a bit embarrassed but laughing it off, William chuckled, “Oh sorry, I sometimes forget myself.” He laid the blanket back over the dragon’s chest and added, “Other than the scars, I only found a few open wounds that we’ve treated. His biggest problem is silver poisoning, coupled with severe dehydration and malnutrition.”

Olivia’s eyes were once again glued to the dragon’s face as William stood back from the bed while continuing to give her the rundown of the dragon’s condition. “Since I now have first-hand experience of how strong his dragon magic is, I admit to being shocked at his condition. The only other thing I am considering is that black magic was used in his torture… very strong, very deadly black magic used in abundance, along with the silver.”

He stepped forward, reached under the blanket and uncovered the dragon’s foot, motioning for Olivia to come to the end of the bed. Once she was there, he pointed at the small perfectly round circles that covered nearly every inch of the bottom of his feet. “From the healing pattern and the color, the skin was initially damaged at least seventy or seventy-five years ago and then reinjured every time they started to heal.”

William pointed to the largest wound, right in the middle of the dragon’s arch, outlining it with the capped tip of his pen. “See the dark grey?”

Olivia nodded.

 “Under our black light, it glowed. It’s remnants of silver…like the dust, literally embedded in the skin.” He shook his head. “It had to have been placed there with some kind of horrible mysticism for his dragon magic not to have forced it from his system.”

Looking back to her dragon’s face, Olivia couldn’t help but be drawn to him. Even in rest, he had a commanding presence and an aura that proved he was as loving and caring as he was strong and courageous. The auburn wolf within her soul howled in response to the feeling the dragon stirred in Olivia’s heart. She only wished he would open his eyes and speak so that she might know who he was.

“You use the connection, the bond, you share with your mate to see how he is, help him, lend him your strength and that of your wolf.” Marrok’s words echoed through her mind just before William said, “I have other patients to check on and I’ll let Ellie know you’re gonna stay in here for a bit.” He patted her shoulder. “Just holler if you need me.”

Looking at the doctor, she smiled and nodded, immediately turning back to her dragon and walking to his side. Waiting until William had left the cubicle and pulled the curtain closed before laying her hand over her dragon’s, Olivia shivered at the electricity of their connection skittering up her arm, down her spine and landing in her womb, as it spread warmth throughout her body.

Tamping down her arousal, Olivia groaned to herself, “What the hell? Chill hormones…so, not the time.”

Several deep breaths later, under control and focused on helping her dragon heal, the she-wolf let her eyes slide shut and searched her heart and soul for the bond she shared with the man she believed to be her mate. Delving deep within herself, Olivia was beginning to doubt what she’d been feeling when she finally saw a bright white glow. One she knew for certain had not been there before. One that emanated love and acceptance, loyalty and commitment along with a devotion that seemed almost unfathomable.

In her mind’s eye, she moved closer, summoned not only the magic given to her by the Universe but also her wolf’s and began to slowly pour that enchantment into her connection to her dragon. She knew the precise moment her charm met his. Not only did the nails on her hand extend with the claws of her beast but she saw the image of his dragon, red and majestic superimposed over his face coupled with a keen awareness in the beast’s eyes that said he missed nothing and was always prepared for battle.

Her Alpha wolf, the strong auburn lupine with an iron will and immeasurable strength, lowered her muzzle and bowed to her mate. All doubt whether the man in the bed was Olivia’s Fated Mate fled. There was absolutely no one, other than Marrok, that her wolf would submit to.

Threading her fingers through her dragon’s, Olivia sat in the chair behind her and focused more of her life force into her mate. She prayed to the Heavens that he would be okay and asked the Goddess of All to lend any aid She could to the benefit of his healing. 

Memories she knew were not her own began to materialize in her mind. She saw a young boy with long red hair running through a pasture with other boys chasing a gaggle of little girls who giggled and ran just fast enough to stay out of reach. From their clothing and their speech, she knew it was at least a hundred years, if not more, in the past.

The boy leading the pack, the tallest and most handsome, whose smile complete with dimples rivaled the shine of the sun, had a twinkle in the depths of his violet eyes, promising he was always up to mischief but would never intentionally cause anyone any harm. The scene changed and she saw a man, the young boy from the previous memory now grown, on horseback, carrying a sword and shield, following others into battle.

Before the clash of steel, the vision again changed and Olivia found herself in a deep dank hole in the ground where water dripped down the stone walls leaving dark trails of mud and muck. The only window was at least twenty-feet off the ground, covered with grease and grime, providing minimal light and adding to the hopelessness that seemed to permeate the air.

The new perspective meant she was living as he had, no longer a spectator. The stench of death and despair stung her nose, as she gagged and her mouth filled with bile. The silver cuffs around her wrists and ankles burnt her flesh while blood flowed from the wounds created by the tight chain collar that dug into her neck. Olivia shifted her eyes from side-to-side where her shackles kept her suspended from large hooks that jutted from the wall to find herself alone in a small circular tower she immediately knew had been his prison.

In a flash, her perspective changed. She was no longer the prisoner but again an observer, watching her dragon as two men dressed in armor, imprinted with a crest Olivia had never seen before, entered the room and immediately began to kick and punch her mate. There had been no provocation, no warning, not even any questions asked. They simply walked in and began to pummel him. It was barbarous and broke her heart.

Tears flowed down Olivia’s cheeks as she cried for the abuse to stop. It didn’t matter that it had occurred in the past, that the damage was already done. She only wanted it to stop and to find a way to save the man who was quickly becoming the most important person in her world.

The scene changed again and this time she was watching the dragon, now an emaciated and battered version of the man she’d seen being beaten, running through a forest. His route was convoluted. He was careful not to disturb even a leaf of the overgrown foliage, stopping only when there was no doubt he’d lost those pursuing him. Ducking into a hole in the ground covered with the rotting trunk of an old tree, the Guardsman covered himself with fallen leaves and dared not even breathe.

Olivia had expected to feel fear, or maybe a sense of relief that he was finally free. Instead, she was overwhelmed with his rage, a need for revenge and unparalleled hate for those he thought of as the ‘Fiach Dubh’. The words spoken in Gaelic sounded so familiar that it took less than a minute for her to remember they meant Ravens which then made sense of the crest she’d seen on the men’s armor in the previous memory. It felt significant, like something she had been told or maybe studied at one time, but between lending her power to her dragon and the barrage of emotions she was experiencing, it was difficult to focus.

As if he’d heard her thoughts or somehow knew her strength was waning, Olivia’s mate’s voice drifted through her mind, “Thank you, mo mac tire beag for your help and your care, but you have given enough.”

She felt him block the flow of her magic to which her wolf immediately responded and answered his request with a whimper of acknowledgment. Suddenly so tired, she couldn’t even open her eyes to see if he was awake, Olivia was shocked to feel the softness of his blanket under her cheek and the soft caress of his calloused fingers on her cheek.

“But, you…”

“It is not important. We will talk when you wake. We both need our rest. Sleep, mo stór, regain your strength…”

Unable to resist the allure of her mate’s request, Olivia sighed as she fell asleep, feeling more complete than she could ever remember.

Chapter Six

Olivia awoke with a start as she heard Ellie’s voice from the hall. “Well, how the hell long has she been in there? Are you sure she’s okay? Maybe he’s hurt her. We know nothing about this man.”

Jumping to her feet, Olivia straightened her long auburn ponytail, patted her face to bring color to her cheeks and took a deep breath just as the curvy blonde she-wolf burst into the room, stopped short and said, “Are you okay? I can’t believe no one even came to check on you.”

Shoving the bag at Olivia, Ellie sounded miffed as she sighed, “Here’s your leftovers. You left them in the waiting room.”

Taking the bag, Olivia quickly apologized, “Oh shit, Ellie, I’m sorry. I swear I’d lose my head if it wasn’t attached.” Opening the bag, she pulled an oatmeal raisin cookie from a Ziploc bag, took a huge bite and moaned, “Oh my goddess, this is the best cookie I’ve ever eaten.”

It was apparently the best thing she could’ve said to diffuse Ellie’s anger without even knowing it. The blonde’s face brightened with a huge smile as she gushed, “No way? Really? Thank you so much. It was my mom’s recipe but I made them. I was hoping they were good.” Her tense, upright stance relaxed as she chuckled, “My brothers and Caleb all said they were good, but I swear they would eat shit on a shingle if they were hungry enough.” Looking at the man still unconscious in the bed, Ellie added, “How’s he doing? Any change?”

Not wanting to give anything away, Olivia looked down at her mate, noticed his scars and abrasions looked less angry, healing nicely and answered, “Yeah, he appears to be getting better. William said his dragon magic is strong.” She nodded. “Looks like he was right.”

She felt bad for keeping secrets but just wasn’t ready to admit that the injured dragon was her mate or that she’d helped him heal. Looking at the clock on the wall, Olivia was shocked to see she’d been asleep for over an hour and was glad Ellie appeared to be accepting her answers without her usual skepticism.

“Any word from your brother?” It seemed Ellie was back to interrogating but at least her tone had softened and she was no longer looking at Olivia’s dragon like he was an escaped mental patient or worse, a mass murderer.

“No, nothing yet.” Olivia pulled her phone from her pocket, found a text from Star and a missed call from Finn then shoved it back into her pocket. “I know he said it may take a bit to get a hold of the dragons he’d met, so I’m just waiting.”

Biting the inside of her cheek, Ellie kept her eye on the man in the bed and walked forward. Olivia held her breath, wondering what her new friend was up to. If there was one thing she’d learned in the time she’d spent with the Wolfe’s, it was that they were a perceptive lot and not ones to hold back.

Watching as Ellie leaned over the dragon, narrowed her eyes, turned her head one way and then the other and finally, sniffed the air, Olivia exhaled as the blonde looked up and said, “It’s the damndest thing, but I’d swear he smells like this old derelict chapel on the far side of our land.” She walked to the end of his bed. “I haven’t been there for years but I’ll never forget the smell of evil and hate. We found traces of sulfur and brimstone the last time and Dad forbade anyone going near it. There were stories about some crazy bunch of monks turned warriors who tried to eradicate all paranormals about a century or so ago.” Her southern twang was a bit more pronounced when she added, “I wonder if he was hiding out there. Maybe I should ask Dad to send some of the Trackers out to see if there are any clues.”

Olivia was almost positive the chapel Ellie was talking about was the place she’d seen in her dragon’s memories… where he’d been tortured. It just seemed like too much of a coincidence not to be the same place. However, in the vision, it had seemed like his stone cell was partially underground, like the dirty little window had been at ground level. She tried to think of a way to ask Ellie if the old building had a basement or a dungeon without the other woman getting suspicious, but came up short on ideas then William appeared and the conversation changed course.

“How are we doing in here?” The doctor asked as he moved to the dragon’s bedside and began to take his vitals while a nurse followed behind with bags to change the IVs.

“Good,” Olivia answered, looking to Ellie who was smiling and nodding, “Yep, I was just trying to figure out where this guy might’ve come from.”

“Any ideas?” William asked as he opened one of the dragon’s eyes and shined a light into it before doing the same to the other.

“I’m thinking he might’ve been out at the old chapel. I’m gonna call Dad and have him send someone to check.”

“Good idea. I’d like to know where he’s been. It might help with his treatment.” William looked up at Olivia. “But like I said, I think it’s all up to his dragon at this point.”

Stepping out of the way, so the nurse could change the bags on the pole next to the dragon’s bed, William went on, “He must be getting stronger. His progress is remarkable compared to when I last saw him. Maybe the antibiotics and fluids are helping.” He looked at Olivia with a twinkle in his eye that she chose to ignore. “Hopefully, he’ll be awake soon and can answer some questions. It would sure help us all.”

“Okay, looks like that’s all I can do here. I’ll talk to y’all later,” Ellie waved over her shoulder as she pulled back the curtain. “I’m gonna go talk to Dad and Caleb about sending some guys out to the old chapel.” The blonde glanced over her shoulder, “You take care, Liv. I’ll be back later.”

Shaking her head at whatever hidden message Ellie was trying to share with her, Olivia had to smile at the use of her nickname. She’d told them all to call her ‘Liv’, but Ellie had been the first to do so and Olivia figured it was an attempt to bond. Maybe the blonde was hoping ‘Liv’ would share all her deep, dark secrets.

I need to stop being paranoid and figure out what to do about my mate in that bed.

“Are you going to stay the night?” William asked, quickly adding, “Not that I mind, it would be nice to go home and rest, knowing he had around the clock attention.”

Shrugging in an attempt to act like it was no big deal, Olivia nodded, “Sure, I’ll stay. I’ve got nothing better to do until my brother calls back.” She raised the bag of leftovers from where it was hanging off her wrist. “Besides I have all this good food and cookies. I’ll just get something to drink and I’m good to go.”

“Great, I’ll let the nurses know. They should only be in about every four hours to check his vitals and IV.”

“Thanks, William,” She looked down at her dragon, “For everything.” 

The doctor walked over and touched her shoulder. “You are very welcome. Just doing my job.” His grip squeezed for a split second before he whispered, “I can see what he means to you. No one here will hold anything against you. Of that you can be sure.”

Unable to speak past the lump in her throat, Olivia simply nodded and kept her eyes on her dragon’s face, squeaking out, “Thank you, William,” as he turned and left the cubicle, closing the curtain behind him.

A nurse soon arrived saying they were going to move her dragon to a room and that Olivia would have to wait outside then meet them on the other side of the Clinic. So, after heating up her food in the microwave in the waiting room then washing up and changing into her clean clothes, Olivia made her way to the farthest corner of the facility and into the last room on the right next to the fire escape.

Well, I guess I can make a quick getaway, if I need to.

After shutting the door, Olivia spread her food out on the table in the corner and was just about to eat when her phone vibrated in her pocket. Pulling it out, she smiled at the goofy picture of her brother that came up every time he called, hit the green button and in a hushed tone said, “Hey, Marrok, what’s up?”

“Just checking in on you. How’s the dragon doing? Still talking?”

“No, he never really woke up.” Pausing for just a second to decide how much to tell him, Olivia was just about to continue when her brother grumbled, “Tell me all of it. Leave nothing out.”

“How the hell did you know what I was thinking? It drives me crazy when you do that.”

“I know you,” Marrok chuckled. “You never pause unless you are trying to decide what to say or trying to lie, neither of which ever works for you, no matter how old you get.”

“Right you are,” she snorted, some of the tension she’d been feeling floated away as she spoke to her brother. “Well, I did what you said and used our connection to give him some of my healing magic and strength but…” She blew out a breath. “But, while I was doing it, I saw some of his memories.” Her voice sounded shaky, even to her own ears, as she powered on. “He’s been through a lot. I saw just a glimpse of him being tortured.” She swallowed. “And have you ever heard of the Fiach Dubh? Their armor had a raven on the crest and I think they were monks before they were soldiers, if I put all the pieces together in the right order.”

She heard the low growl in his voice, more wolf than man, when he said, “Yes, I’ve heard of them but according to legend, they’re all thankfully… dead.”

“Yeah, well, so were the dragons. Remember?”

She heard him breathing, knew he was trying to calm down and needed to know the reason. “And why are you so pissed? Is there a history I don’t know about? I’ve never heard you talk about these guys.”

Sounding almost normal once again, Marrok explained, “Yeah, when I was a young pup we had a run in with some of them… at least a hundred years ago. We didn’t leave many alive, only the ones that ran. Not soon after, we got word they were all destroyed in a battle with another pack. No one’s heard from them since. Why?”

“I saw two of them in his memories. They were holding him captive and beating the living shit out of him.” She looked to her dragon, still resting peacefully. “And Ellie thinks he was being held right here on their property in some abandoned church.”

“No shit?” Marrok whistled. “Those guys are bastards. They were super religious and then something happened. They began hunting paranormals and trying to recruit humans to help by lying and spreading hate and fear. There were rumors of demon worship, but to the best of my knowledge, no one has heard from them in at least a century.”

“Real nice guys, huh? Well, that’s what I saw along with the Gaelic name this dragon called them.”

“This dragon?” Her brother snorted. “That’s how you’re gonna play it?”

“What the hell else do you want me to call him? I don’t know his name. I’m not saying the ‘M’ word out loud for fear I’ll have to explain. So yeah, ‘this dragon’ is the best you’re gonna get, for now.”

“Okay, okay, okay… calm down. I understand. I was just messin’ with ya’.”

“I know, it’s just that…”

“No need to explain. Sorry, I touched a nerve.”

“And I’m sorry I overreacted, but speaking of ‘this dragon’,” she added extra emphasis to show she was over it and moving on before asking, “Have you heard back from the ones you know?”

“Not yet, but I’m sure I will in the next day or two. They are hard to get a hold of and I’m pretty sure only one of them had a cell phone. Remember these guys make us look young. Some have been around centuries… with an ‘s’, if you get my drift.”

“Not very technologically advanced, huh? The whole ancient race thing must be a bummer in the twenty-first century.”

“I have a feeling at least a few of the ones I met are truly the ancient ones. At least that was what their accents, speech patterns and the way they dealt with things told me.”

Chuckling, Olivia agreed, “Yeah, I get the same feeling from this guy. Even when he speaks in my mind, it seems like he’s crossing the generations, ya know?”

“Yes, ma’am, I know what you mean.” Marrok seemed distracted then he said, “Is someone checking on that old church you mentioned?”

“Yes, Ellie said she was having her dad and husband send some guys out.”

“Good, you let them do that. I don’t want you coming across one of those Ravens, if they are still around. You’re tough but those bastards are just plain ruthless and damn near unstoppable.”

Holding up her free hand in surrender even though he couldn’t see her, Olivia agreed, “I heard that in your voice when I first mentioned them. I’m staying the hell outta the way.”

Marrok cleared his throat then in a serious tone asked, “Have you decided if you’re bringing ‘that dragon’,” she knew he couldn’t help but tease her again but listened as he went on, “home with you? Or are you gonna go with him? Or…”

“Or what, Marrok?” Olivia jumped on the way her brother had left his last question hanging in the air. “Am I going to walk away and hope he finds me… again? Is that what you want to know?”

“Hey, Sis, calm down. I didn’t mean…”

“You didn’t mean to what? Piss me off? Give me advice? Ask questions you know I don’t have the answers to? What, Marrok, what?” She was breathing heavy and ready to hang up on her brother when she stopped ranting but waited to see what he said.

Unfortunately, she would never find out since her dragon picked that moment to open his eyes, spear her with a look so full of emotions she couldn’t discern one from the other and rasped, “Do not yell,” he cleared his throat, “at your deartháir.” He swallowed and winced, making Olivia reach to fill his water as he went on, “He only wants what is best for you.”

Chapter Seven

“How long have you been laying there awake?” Olivia asked, after promising to call Marrok back and disconnecting the call. She almost laughed out loud at how sassy the first words she ever spoke aloud to him sounded, but she was being her true self and if they were really going to spend forever together, then her dragon had better buckle up.

Her mate raised his hand and instead of taking the cup of water she offered, wrapped his fingers around hers and captured her eyes with his intense violet gaze. From one heartbeat to the next, it felt as if he’d become a part of her, that missing, elusive piece she hadn’t known was absent but now knew she would never be able to live without. Her soul felt lighter. Her wolf gave a low sexy growl welcoming her mate while Olivia’s heart filled with a warmth she had no doubt was the undying love of her Fated Mate.

Olivia had been told by not only her brother, but every Elder she’d ever spoken with, that a union with one’s true mate defied all logic and explanation. She’d always walked away shaking her head and thinking how crazy they sounded, but now she knew the truth… was experiencing it firsthand. They had been right. She’d never in all her years felt anything like looking into the eyes of the one man in all the world who completed her with a simple touch.

Goose bumps raised on her arms, her nipples tightened against the silk of her bra and her pussy grew wet as he tightened his grip on hers making the callouses on his fingers rub against the back of her hand. His pupils dilated and his nostrils flared as she watched his kissable lips curl into a knowing smile.

Pulling her hand away, embarrassed and turned on and feeling incredibly out of sorts, Olivia went to speak, had to clear her throat and then said, “You need to have some water.” Handing him back the cup, this time careful to avoid touching him, she added, “And I need to get the nurse.”

“Please don’t.” He gasped, trying to sit up and coughing until Olivia was forced to grab the cup of water before it hit the floor.

Setting it on the table, she pushed the button to raise the head of his bed and helped the Guardsman lean back. Turning to leave to get the nurse, Olivia immediately spun back around when her dragon’s hand closed tightly around her wrist.

“You need the nurse,” she scowled.

“I need you.” His raspy voice was little more than a whisper, but there was no denying his meaning. That along with his alluring Gaelic accent and the look of pure longing in his eyes made her heart skip a beat and her wolf push to be set free.

Going for her default reaction of sarcasm, Olivia raised a single eyebrow and sassed, “You come back from the dead and that’s the best pickup line you’ve got?”

A look of confusion crossed his face a split second before he barked out a rough laugh which led to more coughing. Picking up the water as he took a breath, Olivia raised his bed a bit more and handed him the cup, ordering, “Take a drink, Romeo. Worry about flirting later.”

She loved the laughter in his eyes as he did what she said and ended up laughing herself when he teased, “Romeo, huh?” directly into her mind.

Still chuckling, she countered with, “Well, I don’t know your name,” out loud to which he countered, “Angus… Angus MacLendon, my sweet Olivia. But I would answer to any name that fell from your beautiful lips.”

Working hard not to blush, Olivia thanked the goddess when the door opened and in walked the night nurse, Amelia. The look on her face was priceless, her surprise also evident in her tone. “Well, lookie there, our patient is awake.” Thankfully, she provided Olivia with the distraction she needed to pull her hand from Angus’ grip and step away.

“Yeah, isn’t it great? I was just about to come get you, but he needed a drink of water,” she offered, moving even farther into the corner so the nurse could make her way to Angus’ bedside.

“I need you more than the water.” His voice drifted through her mind.

Giving him a wide-eyed look and putting her index finger across her lips behind Amelia’s back, Olivia answered, “Not now,” and bit the insides of her cheeks to keep from smiling when his low gravelly chuckle rumbled through her.

While taking his pulse, Amelia commented, “You’re making great progress. William, your doctor, is going to be so happy that you’re awake.” She wrote something on the clipboard she carried before putting a thermometer into his mouth and adding, “He’ll be in first thing in the morning.”

Angus nodded, keeping eye contact with Olivia, his gaze a living breathing entity. She could feel him everywhere, fusing himself to the very fiber of her being. It should have felt like an invasion. The she-wolf normally would’ve pushed him away, would’ve looked for a way to escape, would’ve wanted no part of someone she knew virtually nothing about winding his way around her heart and soul, but instead of wanting to flee, she wanted more… she wanted to be by his side…she wanted him.

Watching as Amelia laid her clipboard to the side and began her physical examination, Olivia nearly hyperventilated when the nurse pulled the covers down and revealed Angus’ amazingly muscled chest. She remembered what he’d looked like covered in mud and what remained of his clothing but it was nothing compared to the sight before her.

Trying to look away but finding it impossible, Olivia’s mouth watered with the need to mark every inch of his massive shoulders, her fingers tingled with the need to tease his nipples and caress the granite plains of his six-pack abs. Her dream from before came rushing back. Her body flushed with desire. Her pussy was instantly slick as visions of her soft curves wound around his hard body, as she loved him as only a true mate can, filled her mind.

Grabbing his cup of ice water, Olivia downed every drop, set the cup back onto the table and forced herself to look anywhere but at the man who was becoming a physical need she had no idea if she was prepared for. She knew he was aware of the effect he had on her and was also sure if she looked up he would have that damn shit-eating grin on his face that she was already beginning to find lovingly familiar.

Cleaning up the food she hadn’t been able to eat as Amelia finished Angus’ exam, Olivia was just about to make an excuse to leave the room when the nurse said, “William said you are spending the night. Is that still the case?”

Busted! Thanks, Amelia.

But she couldn’t blame the nurse for her own lack of control. Nope, there was no one to blame but herself and Olivia had never believed in running away, no matter how uncomfortable the situation. Plastering on a smile, she tossed her bag of food, minus the cookies, into the trash and turned towards Amelia. “Yes, ma’am, I’m just going to get a cup of coffee to go with my cookies and I’ll be right back.”

“Oh, let me get that for you,” Amelia offered, touching Olivia’s arm as she walked by. Opening the door, the nurse stopped and looked back, asking, “Cream and sugar?”

“Yes, please.” Olivia knew her smile was a little too bright and her words a little too cheery but she was way out of her element and had never done very well with uncomfortable situations. That was Marrok’s gig. He was the politician, always knew what to say, never blurted anything out, but he wasn’t here and this was her mate.

Slowly turning back towards Angus, Olivia was still smiling, unsure what to say when he patted the bed beside him and asked, “Would you sit with me until I fall asleep?” He looked deep into her eyes. “I simply want to hold you in my arms.” She saw him swallow. His eyes closed for just a moment and when they opened his unshed tears nearly broke her heart as he whispered, “I truly believed I would never live long enough to know you.”

Unable to resist the pull of her mate, his need for her and the love she felt growing within her, Olivia put the rail on the side of the bed down, took off her boots and crawled into bed next to her mate. Careful not to cause him any pain, she let Angus direct her movements and soon found her body flush against his side with his strong arm wrapped around her and her head resting on his chest.

She listened as her heartbeat slowed to his and soon beat in sync with the man’s Fate had given her to love. Laying her hand across the blanket that covered his stomach, Olivia was shocked when using his enhanced speed, Angus used his free hand to pull the cover down, letting her flesh touch his, then groaned, “Oh my Heavens, I love the feel of your skin against mine.”

Holding her breath, Olivia fought the arousal setting fire to her body from the inside out as the electricity of their connection seemed to send sparks to every erogenous zone she had and a few she’d only just discovered.

Inhaling, Angus’ chest vibrated, making her nipples so hard they were almost painful as he murmured, “If only I had the strength to love you as I desire, mo mac tire beag milis. Your scent, so fresh, so wild, so very you, is driving both myself and my dragon crazy with desire.” He sighed. “But our day will come… very soon, mo ghrá, very soon…”

She listened as his voice faded away, his breathing became deep and her dragon succumbed to his need for more healing sleep. Tamping her arousal down deep inside, Olivia thought about getting up but didn’t have the will. She hoped Amelia had forgotten all about the coffee. A peace unlike she’d ever felt filled both her and her wolf. They were home. There was no denying it. Angus was their own.

Closing her eyes, she cuddled closer and whispered, “Yes, mo Dragon, very soon…,” and followed him to sleep.

Chapter Eight

Jumping out of bed and nearly landing on the floor at the sound of the door opening, Olivia did her best to look cool as William walked into the room but failed miserably when Angus burst out laughing.

“Well, it looks like Amelia was right. You have made remarkable progress since I last saw you.” William winked at Olivia then looked back to Angus and asked with a chuckle, “Could it be the specialized care you’ve received?”

Feeling the heat of embarrassment on her cheeks, Olivia looked at her mate pleading with her eyes for him to behave, but it was not to be. With a grin and his still raspy voice, he chuckled, “Most definitely and I am looking forward to more of the same for quite some time to come.”

Thankfully, William ignored Angus’ innuendo and went on, “Well, you keep making this miraculous recovery of yours and you’ll be out of here in no time.”

Avoiding her mate’s gaze, Olivia excused herself, walked out into the hall and made a mad dash to the lavatory in the waiting room. After brushing her teeth then brushing her hair and putting it back up in a ponytail, she exited the small room and ran right into Ellie and Caleb.

“Hey, girl. How’s everything?” Ellie asked. “William said we’d find you here. Looks like the dragon is awake. I wanted to see if you’d found out anything before we busted in and started asking questions.”

Shaking her head, Olivia answered, “He hasn’t been awake long.” It wasn’t really a lie. He did go right back to sleep the evening before and had just awakened when William came in a bit earlier. “I haven’t had a chance to find out much but his name… Angus MacLendon.” She moved around the couple and headed to get a cup of coffee, but continued talking, “I’m waiting on Marrok to get back to me. He called last night but hadn’t spoken to the dragons he knows yet.”

Stirring her java, the she-wolf turned around and as she blew on the hot liquid added, “I just needed to freshen up.” Motioning with her head before taking her first long drink of coffee, she asked, “Wanna go see if we can talk to him, yet?”

“Sure,” the couple answered in unison, following Olivia down the hall as she spoke to her dragon through their unique link. “I’m bringing the Wolfe Pack Alphas’ daughter and her mate, who also happens to be the Alpha of another pack, in with me. They have some questions and they do NOT know that we are mates. Please, let that be our secret for now. Wolf politics can be complicated and we’ve just signed a big treaty. I want to talk to my brother before we announce anything, okay?”

“I understand completely, mo stór. I will follow where you lead… always.” His low gravelly answer made Olivia’s wolf stretch and paw the ground. Olivia wasn’t sure if it was the rumbling timbre of his voice or his constant innuendos, but he was literally driving both woman and wolf to distraction.

Hand on the doorknob, she listened carefully to make sure he was decent, opening it only when she was sure the coast was clear. Just as it had been since the moment he opened his eyes, Olivia was instantly trapped by his hypnotic gaze, helpless to do anything but look at him and wait for the moment they were once again blessedly alone.

Shaking herself, the she-wolf began the introductions. “Ellie and Caleb Rahound.” Then turning towards the wolves, she added, “This is Angus MacLendon.”

Ellie walked forward with Caleb at her back, extended her hand and smiled, “It’s good to see you alive and on the mend.” Letting go of his hand so her husband could also shake it, the blonde continued, “How are you feeling, by the way?”

“Good, thank you, ma’am. I appreciate your hospitality and kindness. The doctor just left and assures me as long as I continue to recover as I have so far, I will be released the day after tomorrow at the latest.”

That was music to Olivia’s ears and she immediately started planning how to get Angus out of Wolfe territory without their new mating status becoming an issue as she listened to Ellie continue with her questions.

“Well, we couldn’t leave you out there the way you were.” Her smile was sweet but there was steel in her voice when she asked, “And speaking of out there, how exactly did you come to be in our territory? Your clothes smelled of the old chapel but my dad sent Trackers and they found the area completely undisturbed.”

Listening to her dragon’s thoughts, she was impressed by how fast he was able to give them an answer without lying but also without revealing everything although he was still very tired and healing. “I was taken prisoner and tortured for quite some time without rest. When they finally stopped, I was left alone for a little over a day. The ground began to shake. The stones in the walls of my cell shifted, loosening the chains holding my shackles. Once I was able to pull them from the walls, I found the keys outside my cell, released myself and ran without looking back. I honestly had no idea where I was or that I was trespassing.”

He stopped to cough which had Olivia filling his cup of water and going to the far side of the bed to hand it to him while congratulating him. “Good job using the word trespassing. See their faces. They are impressed that you are claiming blame for unauthorized entrance into their territory.”

Taking the water from her hands without looking away from the Rahounds, Angus drank before continuing. “I am truly sorry and when I am able, would like to also offer your mother and father my sincerest apologies. If there are reparations due, I only need get back to my clan to be able to pay them.”

Shaking her head, Ellie quickly responded. “No need for that. It was a desperate situation and you did the only thing you could to escape a horrible situation. You have been granted sanctuary.” She leveled her gaze at him. “My mom and dad will want to talk to you, but we can set that up after you’ve been released.” She looked back at her husband, nodded and then added, “What we’re really concerned about is who kidnapped you and where you were held. We’ve had a real problem with rogues and want to make sure none of our kind are responsible for what happened to you.”

Taking another sip of water, Angus nodded. “I understand and I can assure you they were not wolves, at least not from their scent or what I could make of it. I believe they were human but had been imbued with some sort of black magic.” He took another drink. “As for where I was held, I have no clue. Once I reached the outside world, I ran.”

Olivia knew there was so much he was leaving out and couldn’t wait to hear the whole story but for the time being stood silent beside her dragon’s bed and listened as Caleb said, “The Trackers couldn’t find your scent anywhere but where you were lying face down in the mud.” The Alpha shook his head and wrapped his arm around his mate. “But with all the rain and wind we had, I’m not surprised. Maybe when you’re up and about you can go out and see if anything looks familiar.”

“Yes, sir. That sounds like a plan. I would love to find the fiends who attacked me and settle the score.”

Tiny shivers danced up and down Olivia’s spine as she listened to Angus’ voice get rough with his anger and his brogue thicken. She couldn’t wait to have that voice whispering sweet nothings in her ear.

Ellie and Caleb stayed for about another hour, leaving only when the day nurse, Gwen came in to take out Angus’ IV and tell him they would be bringing him a lunch from the cafeteria. Following the nurse to the door, Olivia sat in the farthest chair from her dragon and looked anywhere but into his eyes.

After almost a minute of avoiding eye contact, Angus’ low rumble of a chuckle filled the room just before he asked, “Do I have to get out of this bed and come over there?”

Snapping her eyes to his, Olivia shook her head. “No, don’t get up. I have no clue what you have on under there but it would be my luck you’re naked and would stand up just as someone walked in.” Getting to her feet, she sighed and feigned her exasperation as she walked to his side. “I’m coming. Besides you need your rest.”

No sooner had she reached his side then Angus’ hand found hers, his fingers intertwined with hers and he looked her right in the eye before growling, “I. Need. You. Nothing else.”

“Oh, I see, just me.” For the first time in all her years, she was comfortable with someone other than Marrok holding her hand. It felt good, right and to be honest…she liked it, but Olivia wasn’t going to let Angus know that…not yet.

“Well, I need a few answers.” Switching to their mind-to-mind communication, she went on, “And to keep things just between us, I’m gonna ask them this way, okay?” 

“That is fine with me, mo ghrá. Ask away. I have nothing to hide from you… ever, but please sit. Just having you near makes me feel better… stronger… alive.”

Who was she to deny him anything. A lot needed to be discussed, but there was no denying they were Fated Mates, denial would be useless. Olivia would learn to deal with having a dragon for a mate, just as she had no doubt Angus would find a way to make having a wolf as a mate work, as well.

Taking her seat on the side of his bed, Olivia rolled her eyes and snickered when Angus wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her bum tight to his side, cuddled around her and when he was finally comfortable, looked up at her and said, “Continue, mo ghrá.”

“You are a mess, Angus MacLendon.”

“Aye, I am, but I am your mess, Olivia Kilbride.”

“Whatever you say, dragon man.” She winked. “Now, for some questions.” Laying her hand over his where it sat upon her thigh. “When you were asleep and I was trying to help, I saw some of your memories.” She paused as he nodded and turned his hand under hers, wrapping his long, strong fingers around hers. To ease a bit of the tension she felt building within him at her announcement, she started with, “You were a really cute little boy,” and loved when he smiled. “Looked like the little girls noticed, too.”

With a twinkle in his eye, he teased, “I have always been a ladies’ man.”

Swatting his arm, she acted irritated and mock complained, “Well, those days are over, bub. You’re a wolf’s man now.”

“Most assuredly, mo mac tire beag.”

Nodding, while giving him the side eye, Olivia said, “And you looked very handsome in your uniform, riding into battle.”

“It is called a surcoat and they were woolen and very uncomfortable, especially under chainmail, but the maidens did do a wonderful job of decorating them with depictions of our dragons. It was an honor to wear them, no matter how they chaffed the skin.”

“Well, you looked very regal wearing yours. I like the red.” Olivia knew she was hedging. She didn’t want to ask him about the time he’d spent in captivity, didn’t want him to have to relive it, wasn’t sure she wanted to hear it, but knew she had to ask. It was part of what the Wolfe’s would be asking him and she had to know before they did. It was all part of being able to protect him if things turned ugly.

Preparing herself to ask, Angus tightened his grip on her hand, winked at her and said, “Just ask, mo chroí. I have nothing to hide from you, not now, not ever.” He kissed the back of her hand, his beard and mustache tickling her skin. “I can hear your heart pounding. Can feel your anxiety and your need to protect me, but the past is the past. You want to know about the attack and my subsequent incarceration, yes?” 

Unable to answer, Olivia simply nodded and tried to look away, but Angus was having none of it. Reaching up, he laid the tips of his fingers tenderly on the side of her jaw and guided her gaze back to his. “Never look away, mo a ghrá geal. I may be new to being and having a mate, but I believe with all my heart that we are destined to be together. Destined to be the greatest story of love ever told. I want to share not only in the good times with you but also the bad. It will only serve to make us stronger. You are the light of my soul, the love of my life, the one person in all the world I simply cannot live without.” He laid another kiss on the back of her hand. “I have waited for you for near on two hundred years with the knowledge that eternity by your side would be nothing short of Heaven. Please ask me whatever you want or need to know. I am open to you… mind, body and soul.”

Letting out the breath she’d been holding, Olivia spoke past the lump in her throat and explained, “In those memories that I saw, there were two men dressed in armor with a crest that contained a raven.” She made sure to maintain their eye contact as Angus had asked and continued, “I saw a very small part of what they did to you then the memory changed to you running through the forest and you said the words, Fiach Dubh.”

She paused for a second, surprised at how peaceful her mate remained while she, in contrast, was a bundle of nerves and anxiety. Apparently, her unease was also obvious to Angus as he unwound his hand from hers, laid back, pulling her higher on the bed with him and began to rub her back. Olivia went on, “I spoke with my brother Marrok, who has also met some dragons. I’ll tell you about that later, but anyway, I asked him about the Fiach Dubh and he told me what he knew, which included that he’d been advised that they were all killed.”

“Oh, if only that were true.” Angus sighed while continuing to massage her shoulders. “The Ravens, as most know them by, their numbers are dwindling, but there are still several terrorizing our paranormal brothers and sisters. As for the ones that were holding me, I have no clue if they were caught and killed or simply delayed in getting back to me. I only ran because I believed I was still close to my lair and could get help. But it soon became apparent that over the years I had been transported farther than I ever imagined from my homelands.” His hands slowed on her back. “All I know, is that I want to find where they held me and meet out the justice befitting a century of pain and torture.”

Jumping from the bed and spinning towards Angus, Olivia shrieked, “A century? A hundred freakin’ years?” Out loud at the same time William walked into the room and asked, “What took a century?”

Oh great! Leave it to me. Wonder if Angus has an answer for this one?

Chapter Nine

She wasn’t sure if it was the right move, but it was the one Angus made and she wholeheartedly supported him as he looked William right in the eye and said, “That is how long I was in captivity.” He paused and when the doctor merely stood still with a look of shock and disbelief, continued, “I appear to have traveled around the world and am very thankful to be whole and on the mend.”

“An entire century?” Barbara Wolfe answered, following William through the door, with her husband and daughter bringing up the rear.

With a sadness in his eyes that made Olivia want to rush and kill everyone who’d ever dare lay a hand on him, Angus replied, “It was 1916 when the lads, the Force of Guardsmen I belong to or did belong to called the Enforcers, and I rode into battle to save a small clan pinned down by a coven of rogue wizards. I saw Amelia, my nurse, write 2017 as the date when she was checking my temperature yesterday. So, if my math is correct, that is a hundred and one years.”

He paused and looked at Olivia, his eyes filled with such need that she no longer cared who knew what he meant to her as she walked to his bedside and laid her hand into his outstretched palm. Listening with not only her ears, but also her heart, Olivia could feel what it cost Angus to relive the most horrible experience of his life.

“It was a brutal battle. One in which we lost one of our own, but in the end, we did prevail. Only the cowards who deserted the battle were left breathing, for they had scattered like roaches in the light of day. It took a day and a half to say our goodbyes to our fallen brethren and release his soul into the Heavens. With heavy hearts, we finally went to sleep, knowing we, as the dragon kin’s elite group of warriors, would most likely be sent to battle evil again very soon.”

“Sometime later, I was awakened with my dragon roaring in my head, unable to move a muscle, literally frozen where I lay. Black magic was thick in the air. I couldn’t hear over the sound of chanting. I was eventually able to open my eyes and see the ones responsible for the treachery that had befallen us.”

“There, in a circle, stood tall masked and cloaked figures, chanting their evil spell, being led by a small woman I believe to have been of Elven descent. She knew who we were, what our mission was and was more than pleased to throw her knowledge in our faces. It was such a shock. We had operated from the shadows. Each with a special ability, all called upon to serve not only our kin, but all paranormals in the fight against those who would see us eradicated.”

“With a silver disc placed on each of our chests, she bespelled us, promising we would live forever, suffer forever, locked away in a tomb of her own design, unique to each of us. She wanted us to live with the knowledge that we had failed to defeat evil and that dark would conquer light.”

“Her promise was that we would all be locked away and strewn like dust on the wind to the farthest reaches of the Universe, left to simply exist, never able to escape, never able to die. After that I fell asleep. When I awoke the first time I was on a ship and was told I had been sold to the Fiach Dubh, as a plaything.”

Gasps and growls filled the room. Tristan stepped forward and with his wolf shining in his eyes growled, “The Fiach Dubh are still alive? How can that be? No one has seen one for…”

The Alpha stopped and stared at Angus, then both men said in unison, “About a hundred years.”

“Aye, my friend, I believe there were very few left and they banded together to be my tormentors. To attempt to extract the whereabouts of the remaining dragons from me along with some ill-fated attempt to separate my magic from my dragon.”

“Makes sense,” Tristan agreed, his voice and eyes back to normal. “Until recently, we thought you dragons were extinct.”

Angus chuckled, “And that’s the way we liked it. But someone knew. Someone betrayed us. And that someone made sure to have their evil little elf take out the Enforcers first.”

Olivia placed her right hand over their combined hands, pushing love and strength through the bond she shared with her dragon. She could feel him building to something and wanted him to know she was with him all the way.

“From what Olivia has said,” he looked up at her and winked making the butterflies in her stomach flutter in double time. “My kin still live. The attempt to destroy them failed, but do you happen to know any by name?”

Tristan shook his head, “Only one and he had no family.”

“Well,” Angus took a deep breath. “I await Marrok’s return call. I have tried to contact my brethren through our mind-to-mind communication, but as of yet, have not been able to reach them. I believe it has something to do with my injuries.” He again looked up at Olivia and this time she decided to tell the Wolfe’s everything.

Holding tight to Angus’ hand, she turned towards Barbara, Tristan, and Ellie and with a conviction she couldn’t ever remember feeling before, she said, “Angus is my mate. I knew the moment I scented him in the woods.” Where she had expected skepticism, she saw acceptance in the Wolfe Pack Alphas’ expressions.

“I didn’t know it until that moment. Hell, I was pretty sure I was never gonna find a mate, or if I did he would be a big, burly wolf with a He-Man complex.” She chuckled along with the snickering Wolfe’s. “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you sooner.” Olivia looked at Angus who was smiling from ear-to-ear, shook her head and looking back at her new friends continued, “But I was getting used to the idea myself. I guess I was in a kind of denial. But after talking to my brother, there was no doubt. I hope you understand and that this doesn’t change anything between us or our packs.”

Shaking her head, Ellie rushed forward and swallowed Olivia up in a big hug then leaned back and winked, “You think my mom, the craftiest match-maker in the paranormal world didn’t already know what was going on with you?” She snorted. “And you know she had to tell me. I was just waiting for you to work things out for yourself.”

Hugging Olivia again, the blonde let go and then leaned over and gave Angus a quick kiss on the cheek. “Congrats. You gotta whole lot going on, huh? Back from the dead? New mate? You better rest up.”

The room erupted in laughter as Barbara and Tristan also congratulated them, as well as William when he walked in to see what all the commotion was about. All too soon, the conversation was back to Fiach Dubh and questions were asked about how Angus arrived in Wolfe Pack Territory.

“What I can piece together, mind you my memory is still spotty and I spent much of the time either unconscious from beatings or from the use of black magic, is that every so often I was moved, but I have no idea from where to where. I also have no recollections of time as I was always kept somewhere dark and dank, usually underground and heavily warded.”

“You said something about a ship?” Tristan asked.

“Yes, there were several times I awoke on a ship. I could tell from the sway of the vessel and the smell of the sea. I also believe they kept me over water as much as possible to draw on its natural power and enhance their own evil magic. As for how I got onto your territory, I am sorry but I have no recollection.”

Olivia once again listened as he explained how he escaped and came to be found. She wasn’t surprised when Tristan asked, “When William says you can leave, I’m going to need you to go with us out to the spot where you were found, just to see if it jogs any memories.”

“Absolutely. I am just as anxious as you to not only piece together how I got here, but also find those responsible.” Angus’ gravelly voice was tinged with rage and his pupils glowed in the elliptical shape of his dragon.

Worried for his recovery, Olivia was relieved when William said, “As long as everything keeps going in the right direction tonight, I have every intention of releasing Mr. MacLendon first thing tomorrow.”

“Then plan on staying in one of our cabins and having dinner at our house tomorrow night,” Barbara suggested. Placing her hand in her husband’s she added, “We’ll let you get some rest and see you then.”

After more hugs and goodbyes, Olivia and Angus were finally alone. She chuckled as he tugged on her hand and with a waggle of his eyebrows murmured, “Why don’t we have a nap, mo ghrá?”

“I think you just want me in your bed, sir.” Olivia played coy, pulling back and batting her eyes as her heart began to pound and her body warmed with the idea of once again being wrapped in her dragon’s arms.

A sly grin curved the corners of his lips as he used a bit more strength in his effort to pull her close while saying, “Aye, mo a chéadsearc, were it within my power, I would simply make the world go away so that we might spend every day together in just such a way.”

Unable and unwilling to fight the soul-deep attraction she felt for her mate, Olivia lowered the rail on the side of the bed and climbed in next to her dragon, this time Angus stayed on his side so that they were face-to-face. Once she was settled, Olivia looked up as his arm wrapped around her waist and pulled her body flush with his. Lost in the swirling depths of desire in his expressive violet eyes, she was helpless but to close the distance between them and show with her kiss what she couldn’t find the words to convey.

What started as a soft touch of lips, with the whiskers of his mustache and beard tickling her skin, quickly turned passionate as Olivia licked the seam of his mouth, sucked on his bottom lip and thrust her tongue alongside his. In an instant, their kiss turned wild. She could feel her mate to the very depths of her soul. Their tongues mated in a dance of everlasting love and unending desire. Their hands groped, desperate to have and to possess. Their bodies were on fire with flames of desire that threatened the very fabric of her sanity.

Olivia could barely control her need to be one with her mate as his hand slipped under the soft cotton of her blouse renewing the sparks of their connection as he pulled her still closer. The feel of his erection bumping her aroused clit through the denim of her jeans made rational thought impossible.

Throwing her leg over his hip, Olivia rolled her hips in tempo with her dragon’s, hating the material between them but loving the feel of their bodies moving as one. Tearing his lips from hers, Angus panted, “I must have you, mo mac tire beag. I need to feel you wrapped around me, to be buried deep within the one who completes me as no other. My need to be one with you, mo ghrá, is maddening.”

Lost to a passion that can only come from being in the arms of the one the Universe made for her, Olivia gave over to the passion, gasping, “Yes, mo Dragon…yes.” 

No sooner were the words out of her mouth than Angus rolled Olivia onto her back, ripped the clothes from her body and with his hands on the mattress next to her head, looked down at her and growled, “Now and forever, Olivia Kilbride, you are mine… mo maité… mo ghrá… mo chroí.”

His lips were immediately on hers. Her hands tangled in his long red hair. His tongue delved into her mouth as she felt the tip of his cock tease the opening of her pussy, already slick with need. Slowly, entering her as if they had all the time in the world, branding her from the inside out, Angus entered Olivia until he could go no farther.

Moaning at the loss of his lips as Angus lifted his head, Olivia’s hand glided to his neck and her nails bit into his skin in an attempt to pull his mouth back to hers. But her dragon held back and looking her right in the eyes, growled, “Love me, mo chroí, and let me love you,” as he slowly pulled his cock out of her until she feared he would leave completely.

“Yes,” was all Olivia could say as he drove back into her with such force she felt as if she would split in two. Repeating the action, over and over, he held her gaze captive as thrust after blessed thrust, he pushed them higher and higher.

Her nails slid from his neck, across his shoulder, down his chest where she flicked his hard nipples, thrilling at the jump of his cock within her. “You are beautiful,” she purred, wrapping her legs around his waist and digging her heels into the taunt muscles of his ass, lifting her hips from the bed.

“Oh my goddess,” she mewled as the change in position caused the tip of his cock to tease the sensitive bundle of nerves at the top of her channel while the base rubbed her swollen clit with every stroke.

“It is you who are beautiful,” Angus panted in time with his thrusts. “More gorgeous with every passing moment.”

Reaching between their bodies, his thumb and forefinger rubbed the sides of her clit. She tried not to scream, but lost the battle and moaned, “Oh yes! Oh Angus… oh yes… oh m’fhiorghrá ….yes!”

“Come my love, come for me,” he ordered, gently pinching her swollen nubbin.

Olivia’s mouth slammed to his shoulder, her body stiffened and she screamed her release against his skin as her pussy gripped his throbbing cock, pulling it deeper into her body, massaging it until Angus was emptying himself into her with a strangled roar. Time stood still. They were all that mattered. Looking deep into one another’s eyes as they made love for the first time, the she-wolf had no doubt she’d finally found her forever.

Gently pulling himself from her still quivering body, Angus laid down and immediately pulled Olivia over his chest, covering them both with a sheet before exhaling, “I love you, Olivia Kilbride, with all that I am. I now know, beyond all doubt, you are the reason I lived through a century of imprisonment and torture. You have saved not only me, but my dragon and my very soul.”

The tips of his fingers caressed her cheek as he breathed, “I will love you for all eternity and beyond.”

Unable to speak, Olivia let the words she’d never said to another living soul aside from her brother, float from her mind to her mates, “And I love you, Angus MacLendon, more than I ever knew possible.”

Chapter Ten

Olivia woke before Angus, slipped from bed wrapped in one of his blankets. Grabbing the bag of fresh clothes Ellie had brought her the previous day, she scurried to the bathroom and quickly locked the door. Looking in the mirror, she could only smile and whisper, “Oh my goddess. I just had sex with my mate in his hospital bed. I think I’ve lost my mind.”

“Not lost your mind, just in love and for that I am forever grateful,” came Angus’ whispered reply from the other side of the door.

“Oh behave, you bad old dragon,” Olivia teased, amazed by the flush in her cheeks and the twinkle in her eye.

This dragon is turning me inside out…

“It is nothing compared to what you are doing to him,” he answered her thought. “I love you, Olivia. And now, I shall leave you alone…but do hurry. I miss you terribly already.”

Grinning like a fool, Olivia jumped into the shower, was out in record time, dressed and opening the door to rejoin her dragon just as William walked in, smiling and raising the folder he had in his hand. “Look, what I have for you…. release papers.”

From that point, the next twelve hours were a whirlwind. It took a while for Angus to actually be released during which time, Ellie appeared with extra clothes and shoes from her brothers, keys and directions to the cabin where they would be staying and made sure the couple would be at Barbara’s for dinner.

After leaving the hospital, they went to the cabin to drop off Olivia’s clothes and after spending a few hours enjoying one another, Angus suggested they take a walk in the daylight along the ridge where he’d been found. Hand-in hand, she marveled at how much taller his six-foot-five-inch frame looked when he was upright as opposed to lying in the mud or a bed. She also couldn’t help but gawk at how his muscular frame had filled out in just the few days since he’d awakened. Angus was gorgeous. There just wasn’t another word for it and Heaven help her, he was all hers… other women be warned.

The farther into the forest they roamed, the more Olivia’s wolf begged to be free. The she-wolf wanted to scent her mate, get to know him, let him know she existed. Before she could comment, Angus stopped, turned towards her and said, “Let her run free. It’s what she was born to do. I would love to meet the beautiful auburn wolf that also holds my heart.”

Once again overwhelmed by her dragon’s intuitiveness and consideration, Olivia leaned forward, pressed a kiss to his lips then slipped her hands from his and stepped back. Looking into the eyes of her mate, she called forth her wolf. Magic filled the air as bones changed shape, muscles transformed and Olivia’s perspective changed from a five-foot-eight biped to that of her four-pawed alter ego.

Shaking to fluff her rare auburn fur, the she-wolf preened as Angus stood wide-eyed and announced, “You are absolutely gorgeous, mo mac tire álainn.” He bowed and then dropped to one knee as the lupine cocked her head and sniffed his outstretched hand. Licking first the tips of his fingers then across his palm, she then ran the side of her muzzle where she had licked, marking her mate for all to know he was hers.

Walking around him, she marked his shoulder and across his back before putting her nose to his bum and sniffing. Moving to his opposite shoulder and then front to once again look him in the eye, the she-wolf yipped, stepped forward until their noses almost touched then slid her head alongside his neck, taking special care to mark the spot where his pulse beat so strongly against his flesh.

His fingers wound through the soft fur at her neck as the wolf’s eyes slid shut and inhaled the wonderful aroma of their combined scents. Stepping back, she yipped and motioned with her head for him to stand.

“Your wish is my command, mo ghrá.”

As soon as he’d stretched to his full height, Olivia padded forward, sniffing first his feet then up one leg and down the other, carefully avoiding the growing bulge in his pants until she was ready. She heard his exhale and saw his fists tighten at his side as she chuckled in her mind, “A little anticipation never hurt anyone, my love.”

“But it might just kill this old dragon,” came Angus’ strangled reply.

In response, Olivia slowly ran the tip of her nose up the inside of his leg, stopping just short of his denim-covered erection. She heard his rapid intake of breath, waited just a split second and then pressed her muzzle against the bar of his hard cock and rubbed up and down.

Growling low in her throat to voice her approval as his hands once again dove into the fur at her neck, she teased and taunted her mate, reveling in the scent of smoky cedar and male musk.

Pulling his hands from her pelt, Angus stepped back and caught her gaze with his own. At the sight of his now elliptical pupils, Olivia bowed her head and happily whimpered her submission to Angus’ dragon.

“Raise your head, mo maité mac tire, there is no need to submit to either myself or my beast. We are partners, equals in all life has to offer.”

Lifting her muzzle to again meet his eyes, she held her head high and yipped her approval at his words, letting her whispered, “Thank you,” flow from her consciousness to his.

“You are most welcome,” he responded out loud, his voice rough with arousal, making Olivia itchy with the need to return to human form and satiate the desire that was always at the ready for her dragon.

But what he did next had the she-wolf stopping and watching with awe. Magic fell upon her fur like tiny drops of mist in the early morning hours as she watched every inch of Angus’ exposed skin take on an ethereal glow as sparkling red scales became visible as if they had been painted upon his flesh with the most expert of hands. Although maintaining his physical form, Olivia watched with rapt attention as the scales took on a life of their own, morphing and changing, elongating and twisting until there before her stood not only the man she knew but also his dragon.

Bowing his muzzle as the man bowed his head, Angus said, “My beast, one of the original Dragon Kings, is most honored to show you his spirit and looks forward to the day that he can come forward, in full body. He is pleased to meet you and honored to be your mate. He promises to protect both you and your woman with all that he is and in all matters put you first. You own not only his heart but also his soul. We love you both with every fiber of our being and praise the Universe and Her Fates for our perfect mate.”

Unable to stand back, the she-wolf stalked forward, arching her neck to see as she stood next to the life-force of Angus’ dragon. She guessed that the underside of his chin was at least eight-feet off the ground and was unable to even begin to estimate how high the tips of his fierce battle horns were as they raised towards the sky.

He was breath-taking, majestic, and royal in his stance. Needing to see all of him, she stepped back and carefully made her way around, taking in his massive chest, the girth of his torso, the impressive length of his tail that was lined with spikes along with the deadly barbed spade at its end before coming back to stand before him. Growling, low in her throat as he lowered his body to the ground, she yipped in excitement as he blew small bursts of smoke into the air.

“He would like to be marked as well as mark you, if you please,” Angus explained.

Unwilling to deny her mate or his dragon anything, the she-wolf stepped forward and first touched the tip of her cold, wet nose to his warm, dry snout, letting the scent of the dragon fire overwhelm her senses. Then she slid the side of her muzzle along the soft red scales that covered his muzzle, across his impressive jaw and down his neck, licking where she felt his pulse beating the strongest.

The mighty dragon grumbled low in his throat while letting a thin, steady stream of smoke flow from his nostrils. Stepping back, Olivia continued until she could see both man and dragon, purring, “Thank you mo Dragon. Is brae liom tú.”

“And I love you, my little wolf and will until the stars no longer twinkle in the sky.”

Desire boiled in her blood. Olivia needed Angus more than she needed her next breath. Preparing to change back to human form as she watched her dragon pull his life-force back into his soul, the sound of a branch cracking against the forest floor, followed by the sound of heavy footsteps had her standing her ground, hackles raised, growling through bared teeth.

The clang of metal made her blood run cold as she jumped in front of Angus, who also stood at the ready, a split second before four armored figures pushed through the brush and brambles at the tree line. The crest of the Fiach Dubh shone brightly on the battered steel. Aggression, anger, and hate filled the air, along with a familiar scent, one that made Olivia’s growls turn to snarls.

“Do you smell that?”

“Yes,” Angus’ answer was immediate. “It is the same men I have been with for quite some time, but how do you recognize it?

The man in the lead, shouted through the guard on his helmet, cutting off Olivia’s response. “Well, look what we have here. A she-wolf and an escaped dragon.” His voice was rough. His Gaelic accent thick. His malicious intent clear.

“These men are not what they appear,” she growled, once again interrupted.

“Looks like it’s our lucky day.”

She knew the leader was talking in hopes of distracting both Olivia and her mate, but this was not her first fight and no one threatened her mate. Lowering her head, preparing to charge, Olivia finished her thought from before, “They are more than Ravens, these bastards are wolves hiding behind black magic and they’re out for blood.”

Chapter Eleven

As the four men circled the couple, Olivia kept a close eye on the two to her right while she left the others to her mate. The Ravens kept their faces hidden behind the metal shields of their helmets, continuing the charade that they were merely Fiach Dubh and for the time being that suited the auburn she-wolf’s purpose. The less the enemy was aware of what the couple knew, the better for the two lovers to use it against them when the time was right.

The leader continued to give away not only his plans but also how nervous he truly was as he prattled on while leaving the acrid scent of anxiety in his wake. “Did you think you would get away, dragon?” He banged his broadsword against the leg of his armor. “Did you think you could escape your fate?”

The rest of the scoundrels joined in, the sound of metal clashing against metal ringing throughout the forest. It was a tactic many enemies had used over the years. They somehow believed it took away from the wolf’s keen sense of hearing, but they were only fooling themselves, for it actually made the she-wolf focus more on her target.

“Are you ready, my love? I am sorry I did not…”

“Stop…stop that right now,” Olivia ordered. “Partners, that’s what you said and that’s what we’ll be.”

“The words were easier when I was talking about life and love. This…”

“This is reality and we will deal with it just like we’re gonna deal with everything, together.” She let a chuckle flow with her words. “Now, yes, I’m ready. These wolves need to die for what they did to you.” 

“Not without us,” Ellie’s voice burst through her mind just as her white wolf burst through the trees, followed by another white wolf Olivia immediately recognized as Barbara and two black wolves she knew to be Caleb and Tristan.

“Looks like trouble just finds you two,” Barbara laughed, then to her husband, “Do you know these rogues?”

“Not from their scent,” he growled, his voice rough with the need to protect his mate, his daughter, and his territory.

“Let’s unmask these bastards,” Caleb snarled.

With the Wolfe Pack joining the fight, the Ravens stopped banging their swords and backed up a few paces but didn’t retreat. They were there to prove something and Olivia hoped it was to die because her she-wolf wanted blood for the torment her mate had endured.

“Lookie there, more puppies to skin,” the leader growled an instant before the Ravens attacked.

Swords swinging, the armor-clad men rushed into the circle, trying to herd the wolves close together and failing miserably as Tristan and Caleb took the frontal assault while the females ran between the men biting and clawing in between the gaps of their armor. Olivia aimed for the ankle, latching on with her powerful jaws and ripping both tendon and muscle from the man’s bones.

He fell forward. His helmet flew to the side revealing his neck. In a flash, Barbara was on the bastard, ripping out his throat and spitting his flesh in the puddle of his own blood.

The agonizing moan of a wolf in pain cut through the sounds of battle. Olivia saw Ellie go down a split second before Caleb flew at the man he was fighting, hit him square in the chest and ran over his body while it fell to the ground.

While Caleb pulled Ellie into the forest, Barbara jumped on the back of the man who’d dared to hurt her daughter, biting and scratching until the front and back torso pieces of his armor fell to the ground. Running in circles, slashing at the air with his sword, the Raven pulled off his helmet and grabbed for the white wolf’s front paws.

Letting go before he could grab her, the female Alpha hit the ground on all fours and took a step back, baring her teeth and snarling as the Raven spun around swinging his blade like a mad man. She stood side-by-side with Tristan’s huge black wolf, ready to pounce as the men they were battling threw down their swords and began to transform.

“This party needs some fire,” Angus bellowed. “Jump back!” He called to the black and white wolves.

The second the two were out of range, magic filled the air as just like before, the Guardsman’s skin became iridescent and the head of his dragon rode high over his own. Opening its enormous jaws, the air became thick with mysticism as pure white dragon fire flew from its jowls creating a circle around the men as they continued to call forth their wolves.

Once on all fours, the wolves pretending to be Fiach Dubh howled at the flames that singed their fur and drove them to stand tail-to-tail with no way of escape. Olivia wondered if there were more coming, but focused on the two in the ring of fire as she asked, “Now, how do we get them out of there?”

“Let ‘em burn.” Came Ellie’s angry reply, making the auburn she-wolf glad her friend was well enough to speak.

“I want to talk to them. We have to know where they came from and how many more there are.” Tristan growled. “Then they die for treason and trespassing.”

“I have an idea,” Angus replied, stepping closer to the flames.

Once again, the life-force of his dragon opened his enormous jaws but this time it spewed a thin continuous cloud of smoke directly at the rogues. The sounds of the wolves hacking and their barked coughs grew louder the thicker the dragon smoke became until Olivia heard two bodies slamming to the ground.

Angus’ dragon immediately began to inhale, pulling the smoke and the fire back into his mouth. Once the air was clear and the fire gone, the dragon closed his mouth and simply faded back into the Guardsman.

“Cool trick.” Olivia beamed with pride as her mate answered, “Just my contribution to justice.”  

Following Tristan’s lead, Olivia and Barbara returned to human form and followed their mates towards the fallen wolves, who had transformed back in their unconscious state. Standing next to Angus, Olivia grinned as he put his arm around her shoulders, pulled her close to his side and kissed her on the top of the head, asking, “Are you sure you’re alright?”

“I’m just fine.” She cuddled into her mate, loving that their first battle together had been a victory.

“Good.” He slid his finger under her chin and lifted her face to his before kissing her long, slowly, and deeply. She could feel both man and dragon let go of their tension and fear.

Ending their kiss to spend an extra moment gazing into one another’s eyes, the couple chuckled as Tristan teased, “Are you two lovebirds done, yet?”

Smacking him on the arm, Barbara chuckled, “Give the kids a break. They’re new at this mate thing. Besides, we were just doing the same thing.”

The group laughed as they looked down at the rogues. Olivia saw the crest with the raven tattooed on their forearms with the words Fiach Dubh under it.

“These rogues are from the old Ravenswood Pack. I was sure they died out at least fifty or sixty years ago. There was a huge battle for territory up north and they were never heard from again.” Tristan growled. “We need to get them back to the house and see what they know.” He looked at Angus. “With us finding you on our land, these assholes dressed in that armor,” he pointed at the pieces of steel strewn about the clearing, “and these tattoos,” he kicked the arm of the one closest to him. “Something really bad has been going on right under my nose and that will not stand.”

Caleb appeared with an almost healed Ellie in his arms as Tristan asked, “How long will they be out from the smoke, Angus?”

“We’ve got about an hour,” the Guardsman answered, giving Olivia one more quick kiss before taking his arm from around her shoulder and stepping forward. Once the unconscious rogue was draped across his shoulders and Tristan had done the same with the other, the wolves and the Guardsman sped through the forest until they reached a barn located halfway between the cabin where Olivia and Angus were staying and Barbara and Tristan’s house. Inside, the Alpha and the Guardsman secured the rogues to the two thickest columns in the middle of the barn with thick rope before dousing them with buckets of cold water until they were sputtering and screaming that they were awake.

Pulling up a chair and turning it backward, Tristan straddled the seat then sat intimidatingly close to the man he’d carried through the woods while Angus stood in front of the other. Olivia watched with rapt attention as her mate uncrossed his arms from his chest, spread his feet shoulder width apart and in the blink of an eye threw a punch into the stomach of the rogue that had the bastard wheezing and gasping for air.

Tristan nodded towards the Guardsman’s prisoner and then to the man he was beside said, “My friend, Angus, doesn’t like you two very much. He thinks I should just let him fry you both with that fancy fire of his then peel the burnt flesh from your bones.”

The stench of fear and desperation burnt Olivia’s nose as the rogues fought their restraints and tried to look at one another to no avail. They were trussed up like hogs on a spit and placed so there was no way they could make eye contact or communicate in any way.

As the men continued to tear at their flesh while trying to loosen their ropes, Tristan stood, kicked his chair out of the way and punched the man he was interrogating in the stomach. As the rogues head fell forward, the Alpha grabbed a handful of his hair and flung his head back until Olivia heard the crack of bone against wood. Tristan then growled through gritted teeth, “How many more?”

The rogue’s head hung to the side, his unfocused eyes blinked repeatedly but he still had the audacity to say, “Eat shit, dog.”

Three more punches to the stomach and one to the jaw had left the rogue unconscious and hanging from his ropes. Turning to Angus, the Alpha said, “Maybe he’ll tell you something. This guy’s taking a nap.” An evil grin curled Tristan’s lips as he hit the man one more time then walked over and leaned against the railing next to his wife and nodded to the Guardsman.

Turning her attention to her mate, Olivia watched as Angus walked a slow circle around the rogue he was about to question. The spike in the rogue’s fear filled the barn with the sickeningly sweet stench of rotten fruit, making her eyes water.

Stopping squarely in front of one of the men responsible for his imprisonment and torture, the dragon, who stood a whole head taller than the rogue wolf, leaned down until their noses almost touched and through gritted teeth snarled, “Tell me what I want to know and I will make your death a quick one. Fuck with me and I will make it take days. The choice is yours.”

Olivia barely took a breath, couldn’t look away, was totally enraptured by the raw power she felt swirling within her mate. He was absolutely the most formidable warrior she’d ever encountered and just the thought that he was all hers had her pulse racing and her body wishing all this was over and they were alone.

“I-I-I…” the rogue stammered. “I d-d-don’t know anyth-thing. I-I-I’m new t-t-to the p-p-pack.”

“Liar!” Angus bellowed, punching the man in one jaw and then the other with a quick one-two then squeezing his chin between the iron grip of his thumb and forefinger until the man winced in pain. “The ink on your arm, that disgraceful abomination, is at least a year, if not two, old.” He leaned forward and inhaled, letting fire dance in the depths of his violet eyes and growled, “And I recognize your scent. You were the one who burnt my feet and packed the wounds with silver.”

He flung the rogue’s head to the side, took a step back and simply let the fury roll off of him as he stared at the pitiful excuse for a wolf. Olivia held her breath as the wolf lifted his head. She was stunned to see the evil grimace decorated by the blood that ran from his broken nose and battered lip. Even more so was her shock when he spat, “You worthless piece of dragon shit. You were hardly worth what those fucking monks made us pay for you and we never did get any of your magic. You were…”

The next words died on his lips as Angus’ fist punched through the rogue’s chest, twisted to the left and reappeared holding the wolf’s heart as blood dripped on his borrowed boots. Her dragon’s chest heaved with anger, frustration and unspent fury as he spun around and with a mighty roar threw the crimson organ through the air where it landed with an awful splat against the far wall.

No one spoke. No one moved. For all Olivia knew, no one even breathed until Tristan walked over to Angus, laid his hand on his shoulder and said, “Do you feel better?”

Long seconds ticked by. Olivia wanted nothing more than to rush to Angus’ side but knew he had to deal with this in his own way. It was he who had suffered for almost a century and he who would have to be the one to come to terms with it. All she could do was pour as much love and support into the bond they shared as she could.

When Angus finally spoke, his voice sounded distant, almost dreamlike as he said, “I don’t know. All I am sure of is that the world is a safer place because he is dead.” Taking a deep breath and slowly letting it out, he added with a nod, “Now, let’s wake that one up and get the answers you need.”

Patting him on the back, Tristan concurred, “Sounds like a plan.”

As soon as the only remaining rogue was awake and the Alpha showed him the heartless corpse of his friend hanging on the opposite pole, the man sang like a canary… or maybe it was a raven. He told them that the Ravenswood pack had come from members of the original Fiach Dubh. The monks turned sorcerers had raped several she-wolves and then stolen the babies after their birth and raised them in the ways of the old sect in a way to carry on their legacy of death and destruction.

The battle that Tristan believed to have destroyed the Ravenswood wolves was staged so that they could disappear into the tunnels they had built under the old chapel. Timing had been crucial since the others of their coven were returning after forty years with Angus, whom they’d purchased from the wizards who had bespelled him and his Force.

When the last pair of monks were close to death, they demanded the Ravenswood wolves give them a hundred pieces of silver to keep Angus and told them that if he was driven mad enough with pain and torture, his dragon would manifest and they would then be able to syphon his magic. Neither Olivia nor Angus could believe how stupid the rogues had been or that he had spent all those years in captivity over a stupid legend created by fools. After they learned all they could from the rogue, Tristan kindly relieved him of his head and Angus burnt the two bodies with his dragon fire.

Ellie and Caleb returned to the Wolfe’s home to let the Wolfe brothers and their mates know what had happened while Olivia, Angus, Barbara and Tristan went to the old chapel to find and destroy the tunnels. With the detailed instructions from the rogue, it didn’t take long to locate the underground labyrinth. Everyone but Angus stood about a hundred yards away as the Guardsman used his dragon fire and destroyed the chapel and its tunnels. When the fire had died down, he then used his deep red flames to purify the tainted earth.

The four of them stood watching the smoldering earth as the first rays of the sun peeked over the mountains. Angus pulled Olivia to his chest, laid his lips to hers and kissed her with a fiery passion that left both woman and wolf breathless. Pulling back, he looked deep into her eyes and murmured, “I think it’s time we go home, mo ghrá, don’t you? A little peace and quiet is just what the dragon ordered.”

“Absolutely, I am with you all the way, mo a mhuirnín.”

Chapter Twelve

After a good night’s sleep that lasted a day and a half, in the arms of her mate Olivia was ready to head east to introduce her mate to the other important man in her life, Marrok. When they finally made it to Barbara and Tristan’s to tell them their plans of leaving at nightfall, the whole Wolfe family was assembled and the table full of the Alpha female’s wonderful cooking, as well as lots more of Ellie’s amazing oatmeal cookies.

With their bellies full and the sun setting over the mountains, Olivia and Angus spent the next two hours thanking their hosts and saying goodbye. Finally, when the sky was dark enough to provide cover for a massive red dragon carrying his wolf mate, Angus and Olivia, along with the Wolfe family, made their way to the clearing.

Olivia stood back after Angus had given her another of his toe-curling kisses, and watched her mate make his way to the center of the valley with magic filling the air. Holding her breath, in awe of Angus’ power, she thanked the Heavens for her wonderful mate as from one heartbeat to the next the sexy man she loved with all her heart became the fierce dragon who also held a piece of her soul.

Seeing him in full life, not only essence, was nothing less than amazing. His scales, their captivating crimson glittering in the light of the moon, were more vivid, more enchanting… more real. His elliptical pupils shone bright in the glow of his violet eyes as he watched her approach.

Slowly dropping to the ground, the dragon let out a soft growl that sounded more like a hum of satisfaction as Olivia ran her hands along his jawline, dropping her hand under his chin to tickle the soft, lighter-colored scales that protected his throat. Making her way to his front paw, she chuckled, “When you said to climb up your paw, you really meant climb up your paw didn’t you?” She laughed out loud. “I could fit between these big ole toes of yours and these talons… wow, I’m glad dragons don’t need nail files.” 

A throaty rumble shook the dragon’s body as she started her ascent and smoke rolled from his nose as he chuckled along with her joke. Using his scales as handles and footholds just as Angus had instructed her to do, Olivia climbed her dragon until she was at last sitting at the base of his neck, tucked between several of his large scales, covered with the blanket from her pack. One final wave to the Wolfe’s and she hunkered down for the long ride to the Gaelach Lán Pack territory… to home.

Being airborne was one of the best, but weirdest, sensations Olivia had ever experienced. At first, she was disoriented and couldn’t look down without feeling nauseous. Only Angus’ voice in her mind, kept her from throwing up all over his wing.

“Just focus on a single object or point and breathe deeply. It may take a minute but you will adjust and then the real fun begins.”

She hadn’t known what he meant until she answered a few minutes later. “You’re right. I feel better and the world looks so beautiful from up here. Thank you so much.”

“It is my pleasure and if you think this is pretty, hold on, I’m going to show you spectacular.”

Doing as Angus suggested, Olivia held tight to his scales as the dragon dropped in altitude, dipped its massive body to the right so that she could see several turtles and schools of fish swimming just under the surface of the shimmering waters below. Laughing like a child on the playground, Olivia held out her hand as Angus let the tip of his colossal wing dip into the cool stream, spraying a fine mist across his broad torso.

Later, after she’d awakened from a nap, she was surprised to see a flock of seagulls flying beside them and asked, “Where are we?”

“Over the Gulf of Mexico. Won’t be long now.”

Just then her cell phone vibrated in her pocket. Retrieving the device, Olivia smiled as she saw Marrok’s picture and ducked under her blanket to avoid the noise from the wind whipping around her before answering, “Hey, bro. What’s up?”

“Just wanted to let you know that two of the dragons I met are here, as well as their Commander. They’re all excited to meet their long-lost brethren, as they keep calling him, but wanted me to tell you to keep it a secret. They want to surprise him and they have something special for both of you.” He paused, quickly adding, “And before you ask, I have no idea what it is.”

“Yeah, sure, Marrok,” Olivia chuckled. “I know you’re like a vault. Even if you did know, you would never tell.”

The low rumble of his laughter was enough of an answer, the jerk knew what her surprise was and wasn’t going to tell. But that was okay, Olivia could wait and even more than that, she was excited to see her dragon’s reunion with his kin. She could feel the sadness, like a hole in his heart, from spending so many years without the community of other dragons.

He’d told her so many stories about them and even let a few tears fall when they were alone after she’d confirmed that Marrok had indeed met one called Kyran and another named Kayne. Her brother hadn’t known anyone named Drago, the one they called Commander, but now that he’d told her the leader Angus thought so highly of still lived and was waiting to welcome him home, Olivia’s heart was bursting with joy for her mate. She couldn’t help but feel like there was more to the story of Angus and Drago but knew her mate would share when he was ready. As a wolf and a woman, she knew the importance of family, whether they were by blood or by choice, and that her dragon would have the comradery of those he had shared so much with meant the world to her.

Of course, it made her think about their discussions about where to live. Angus had graciously said he didn’t care as long as he was by her side. And while the thought was sweet, she also wanted him to be happy. It was still something…

“Hey, sis, you still there?” Marrok’s voice pulled her from her thoughts.

“Oh crap,” She snorted. “I’m here. Just thinking.”

“Yeah, I figured. Make sure you have him land on the far side by the cottages. I made sure all the branches and debris was cleared from the meadow. We had a big storm that made a mess a few days ago and I didn’t want your dragon getting a splinter.”

She heard the levity in his voice and joked, “Yeah, could you imagine the size of the tweezers we’d have to use?”

“You better be careful, he might do a barrel roll and dump your ass right off his back,” Marrok barked with laughter.

“Ha-ha-ha,” Olivia mocked. “I made sure I had all my mental blocks in place as soon as you said surprise. You’ll be so proud. I am actually getting good at putting them up when I need to. My senses are even sharper now that I have my mate and I would hate for someone to hear my thoughts like I can hear all of theirs.”

Sputtering and chuckling at the same time, Marrok coughed, “Damn, Liv, you made me spit my coffee but thank the goddess, you’ve learned to shield because, and let me make this perfectly clear…I do NOT want to hear any lovey-dovey crap. Got it?”

“HA!” Olivia laughed out loud, “I cannot wait until you find your mate.”

“I can,” Marrok mumbled then in a louder tone added, “Now, hurry up and get home. Star and Izzy are dying to talk to you and said they’re ready to alter Mom’s mating dress or make a whole new one, whatever you want. To say they are driving me nuts, is an understatement. I love them like sisters, but you know girl talk is really not my thing.”

“I know, bro. Thanks for keeping ‘em company. We’ll be there in about an hour and a half. Love you.”

“Love you, too. Be safe.”

“That was Marrok,” she said to Angus while putting her phone back in her pocket. “He can’t wait for us to get there and said he finally got a hold of your brethren and they will be there in the next day or two.”

Holding her breath, waiting for her dragon’s answer to be sure he had no clue what their family on the ground was really planning, Olivia breathed a sigh of relief when he answered with such joy. “That is wonderful. I cannot wait to see them and to meet your brother and all those so dear to you.”

“Well, get a move on, dragon man. We’re almost there.”

His chuckle vibrated the scales Olivia sat on as her dragon snickered, “Your wish is my command.”

The next ninety minutes seemed to take forever and with every mile they traveled Olivia’s excitement grew. She couldn’t wait to see the surprise on her dragon’s face when he was reunited with the brothers of his heart.

About thirty minutes before the sun rose over sea, the red dragon began its descent and Olivia got her first glimpse of the tops of the trees that sat on the territory belonging to her pack. She was home after what felt like forever, with her mate… life simply could not get any better.

“Hold on, mo ghrá, we are about to land and it can get bumpy.” Angus snickered, “I don’t want to drop you on your bum in front of your brother before we are properly introduced.”

“Marrok would just point and laugh,” she chuckled. “But I thank you, mo Dragon, for your consideration. Love you.”

“And I love you, mo stór,” he said a moment before she was eye level with the leaves on the trees and she held on tight as a jolt rocked the dragon’s body from his feet hitting the ground right before he jogged, slowing gradually until they were standing still.

Stuffing the blanket in her pack, Olivia scrambled off her mate and once on the ground ran about a hundred yards away then stopped, turned and watched the spectacular dragon become the man she loved more than life itself. Waiting while Angus took a moment to straighten his clothing and get his bearings, she squealed when Marrok’s hand touched her shoulder and spun her around.

“Oh, my goddess,” she shrieked, throwing her arms around her brother’s neck and holding on tight while Marrok swung her around, whooping and hollering with happiness.

Olivia’s feet had just touched the ground when Angus appeared at her side, his hand outstretched to her brother. She watched as the two men who meant the world to her, met and shook hands.

Angus was the first to speak, “It is a pleasure to meet you, Marrok. My name is Angus MacLendon and,” he paused and as he looked down and wrapped his arm around Olivia. “And I humbly ask for your sister’s hand in mating and marriage.” He held her even tighter. “She is the love of my life and I simply cannot imagine living without her.”

A huge smile broke across Marrok’s stubbly face as he pulled on Angus’ hand bringing the couple in for a hug and said, “You have my blessing and all the support I can give you for all my days.”

Embracing them tightly, the Alpha started to chuckle, loosened his grip and stepped back. “Now, my new brother-in-law, how about you turn around. I have an engagement, or maybe it’s a mating present, oh hell, just turn around, I’ve got a surprise for you.”

Olivia stood next to her brother as she watched Angus turn around, his face suddenly aglow with amazement and happiness. Stalking towards the three Guardsmen who was heading towards him, the four formidable warriors met in the middle of the meadow and it was like they’d never been apart.

The tallest among them with long dark hair and a thick brogue, wrapped Angus up in a back-slapping hug. “Ah’m soo damn glad to see ye.” She knew immediately he was Kyran just from the description and his brogue.

Next came the one Olivia had no doubt was Kayne from his shining blonde hair and easy laughter. Holding Angus at arm’s length, the Guardsman she also remembered was the Son of Lugh, the Celtic God of the Sun, chuckled, “Look at you, old man. What’s with the Father Time beard, the wolves on the other coast don’t have razors?” before hugging Angus.

Lastly, her dragon stood before the most regal of all the Guardsmen. She knew immediately from his stance and the way he held his head high that he was the Commander, Drago, and more than that, Angus’ brother. That was the secret he hadn’t been ready to reveal. She saw in his heart and soul that he hadn’t believed Drago lived and until he knew for sure, had been unable to share that tiny piece of himself with her.

Watching her mate looking at a man whose every feature so resembled his own was astonishing and made up for his secrecy. Silence filled the meadow for several long minutes. Olivia could feel the plethora of emotions welling up in her mate. When he finally did speak, the crack in his voice brought tears to her eyes.

“Hello, brother,” Angus swallowed hard. “I truly thought never to see you again.” He put his hands on Drago’s shoulders. “Tell me that you did not suffer for every day since I last saw you.”

Shaking his head, Drago smiled, “Not every day, but we will have time to swap stories later. I want to tell you that I have found my mate.” The Commander nodded towards Olivia with a wink. “As I see you have been united with yours.”

At the mention of her name, Olivia crossed the meadow, stood beside Angus and was introduced to his brethren. The brothers hugged then Drago added, “I cannot wait for you to meet my Alisha, as well as Alexander’s son, our nephew, Rayne. He is also a Commander, mated and a father. You will be very proud.”

“I already am, just to see you all.” Patting Kyran on the back, Angus asked, “And is there something you need to tell me?”

Nodding and chuckling, the tall dark Guardsman winked, “Aye. Ah too hae foond mah mate. A beaootiful banshee Ah cannae wait fur ye tae meet`.”

Grinning with mischief dancing in his eyes, Olivia’s mate looked at the demi-god and teased, “And you always did have to do everything the hard way. Have you found your mate, Kay?”

“Dad has, but as usual, I will be the last to know.”

The group of Guardsman burst out laughing as Angus hugged Olivia tight and kissed the top of her head. “Thank you so, mo mac t”ure beag milis. What an amazing surprise.”

“It was all Marrok. I just had to keep the secret.”

“What a lucky dragon I am to have found such a wonderful family.”

Chapter Thirteen

The next forty-eight hours was absolute chaos and Olivia loved every minute of it. She, Star and Isabella spent every waking hour making her gown. Angus, Marrok, Finn and the Guardsmen insisted on getting the garden behind Wolf Hall, the place where all the historical documents of their pack were kept, as well as, all Council meetings and important decision were made and recorded, ready for the ceremony.

Angus had explained that in his culture, it was the man who planned the entire mating ceremony, including the woman’s gown, but had immediately deferred to her when he saw her friends’ fretful expressions. It was yet another way her mate amazed her with how much he truly cared. It was obvious he had more surprises coming and just knowing that little tidbit made Olivia giddy with excitement. She’d caught bits and pieces of secret conversations between he and Drago, but Angus was too quick. He immediately caught her eavesdropping, kissed her breathless, then sent her on her way telling her it would be no fun if she spoiled the surprise.

Finally, the day came when she would be officially mated to the man of her dreams in the way of her ancestors. It was the first of two special ceremonies she and Angus would have to celebrate their union and give thanks to the powerful forces that brought them together.

Olivia along with her two best friends had been up pretty much all night. Even when they were finished with preparations and in bed, Olivia had barely been able to close her eyes and had jumped up before the alarm went off, leaving her friends to sleep. Getting a cup of coffee, the she-wolf stepped onto her deck and sat watching the sunrise through the trees. It hadn’t been more than fifteen minutes when the sliding glass door behind her slid open and out shuffled her friends groaning and yawning.

“Good morning you two. I hope I didn’t wake you.”

“No,” Star sat down next to her, “The alarm went off.” She took a sip of her coffee. “You’re certainly up early.”

Stopping to yawn again, Izzy picked up the conversation and added, “We thought you would sleep in at least a little while.” The raven-haired beauty sat down on the deck cross-legged and patted Olivia’s knee. “But it looks like someone would rather be mated to that hunky dragon than catch a few z’s.”

Batting her eyes and using her best southern accent, Olivia teased, “Oh my, I believe I would.”

The females all burst out laughing then continued enjoying their coffee until Izzy looked at her watch, jumped up and said, “Come on, we need to get started. We’re supposed to be at Wolf Hall by sundown and you still have to wash and dry all this gorgeous hair of yours.” The tall curvy brunette, gently picked up some of Olivia’s thick auburn hair, letting the strands gently fall through her fingers. “And… you want it in some kind of updo. That alone is gonna take half a day.” She snapped her fingers. “So, chop, chop, people. Let’s get this show on the road.”

Shaking her head, Olivia looked at Star and rolled her eyes, pretending to be irritated. “You would think this was her mating day.”

“Can you even imagine what we’ll be going through then?” Star snickered.

Sliding the door open and tapping her toe on the deck, Izzy joked, “Ha-Ha-Ha, you two are so funny. I’m never getting mated. It’s the single life for this wolfie. Now, get your butts out of those chairs and in this house or I’m calling Finn and Marrok and a couple of those hot friends of Angus’.” She pretended to have the shivers and added, “The Universe knew what she was doing when she put those boys together.”

Shaking her head and grabbing Izzy’s arm as she walked by, Olivia pulled her friend into the house while laughing, “Girl, you go into heat around anything with facial hair. How do you expect to stay single?”

Pouting while trying not to laugh, Izzy mock whined, “I do not.” Then she laughed out loud, “I didn’t say I wasn’t gonna play, just that I wasn’t gonna stay.”

“Oh, hell,” Star chuckled, following the others into the house and shutting the door. “Do we need to talk about the last vacation we all took in South America and all the werepanthers? I thought we were gonna have to have you inoculated for Cat Scratch Fever and if I remember right weren’t you thinking about bringing one home?”

“Oh hush, darn you. Can’t a girl have a little fun?”

The ladies were laughing again as Olivia jumped into the shower and her friends began to lay out everything they would need to get her ready. The rest of the day was filled with fun and stories while the three friends reminisced and got ready for the big event.

As the grandfather clock in the living room chimed seven ‘o’ clock, Star and Isabella were sliding Olivia’s white silk gown over her head. Looking in the mirror, the she-wolf was instantly misty-eyed. The dress her friends had made was absolutely perfect. From the sleeveless design, to the scoop neck lined with tiny pearls, to the way the tapered bodice that showed off her voluptuous chest, she couldn’t have asked for better. The accent of the deep red silk ribbon tied around her waist brought out the tiny red dragon flames and dark wolf paw prints the girls had embroidered on to the skirt which flared at her rounded hips and flowed freely to the tops of her feet. She would be barefoot for the ceremony, so had painted her toes a bright red and planned to wear her white ballet slippers for the walk to Wolf Hall. 

Her eyes made their way back up to her face, and Olivia was even more amazed. She didn’t ever wear much makeup and her friends had done a wonderful job of making her look fresh and bright with a little eyeliner, mascara, blush and a magnificent mauve lipstick.

They had done her hair just as she’d envisioned. It was up on top of her head in a loose French chignon that showed off the natural waviness of her hair with random curls around her face, on her shoulders and down her back. She loved that they used her mom’s ruby-jeweled combs and thought of her parents as she also put on the diamond earrings Marrok had had made for her out of a pair of their father’s cufflinks. With her friends by her side, Olivia walked out of her house, down the sidewalk and into the night, knowing that when she returned, she would be mated and with the man she loved.

Standing in Wolf Hall, Olivia waited for the music to stop indicating the beginning of the ceremony. As if she’d wished it so, the strumming of the guitars ceased and the huge wooden double doors before her opened. Olivia’s heart skipped a beat when she saw Angus. Not only was he dressed to perfection in a black tux with his starched white collar open at the top and a red rose in his lapel, but her dragon had done a major overhaul on his abundance of facial hair. All that remained was a thin beard that covered his wonderful jawline, a goatee on his chin and a perfectly manicured mustache upon his upper lip. She simply could not take her eyes off of him as she made her way down the aisle between so many of her pack mates.

Finally, reaching him, Olivia sighed as the sparks of their connection raced up her arms and goose bumps rose all over her body at his touch, assuring her there would never come a day when she wasn’t excited to just be near him. Tearing her eyes from his as he turned them towards their guests and Marrok, who as the Alpha of the Gaelach Lán Pack was officiating their ceremony, said, “Thank you for joining us and bearing witness to the mating of Olivia Arianna Kilbride to the mate of her soul, Angus O’Beirne MacLendon.”

As the audience spoke in unison, “We add our blessing to that of the Universe, the Goddess of All and the Fates. May your life together span eternity and only be filled with love and laughter,” Olivia took in the spectacular decorations her brother, her dragon and his friends had prepared for her special day.

They had strung glittering white lights in every bush, flower and tree. There were deep red bows with three long stemmed red roses tied to the chairs that lined the aisle she’d just walked down. The arch she stood under was filled with the biggest, most beautiful roses she’d ever seen and even the fire pit blazing behind Marrok had huge terra cotta urns filled to overflowing with red roses marking the path she and Angus would walk. It was all so dreamlike, amazing and absolutely perfect.

Looking back at their guests, she spotted Drago, Kyran and Kayne all dressed in suits and smiling with pride. She remembered that Angus told her when they were mated after returning to the dragons’ lair, not only he but also his friends would be wearing surcoats like she’d seen when she’d glimpsed his memories. It was exciting to think of them having a second ceremony but at that moment, she was completely focused on mating her dragon in the way of her ancestors.

Turning back to Marrok, she smiled as her older brother winked and began the ceremony. “As we bear witness to the two souls entering into the blessed union of mating, be mindful this is an everlasting commitment between Olivia and her mate, Angus. May they always be together, always be in love and never be without the comfort of the one the Universe made for them.”

The Alpha laid his hand on the couple’s combined hands and continued, “Now the couple will take the Seven Steps of Mating.”

Marrok stepped out of the way as Angus led Olivia to the fire pit. Once there, they stepped, hand-in-hand up to the first stone wolf and stopped, Angus began with, “O’ mo a thaisce, our love was immediate and all-encompassing. May it last forever as we take this first step together. With you by my side, we will share all things as true partners showing our children and every generation from there forward the blessing of true and faithful love. May the Universe bless us and our children. May we all live long, full lives.”

Then Olivia answered, “I make this commitment to you, my mate, with all my heart. I look forward to an eternity as your partner, filled with love and happiness. I cannot wait to look into the shining faces of our children and our children’s children, knowing they are our gift to the world.”

At the second stone-carved wolf, Angus said, “O’ mo chroí, you have taken the second step with me and my heart sings. May the Universe and the Goddess of All bless you. I will love you and you alone as my mate. I will fill your heart with strength and courage: this is my commitment and my pledge to you from now until the end of time.

Choking back the tears, Olivia responded, “Mo Dragon, mo ghrá in every way I promise to fill your heart with courage and strength. In your happiness, I will be happy. May the Universe and the Goddess of All bless you for all your days.

Stepping up to the third wolf, Angus murmured, “O mo ghrá, now that we have walked three steps together, our wealth and prosperity will grow. May the Universe and the Goddess of All bless us. May we live long, always in love.”

To which Olivia answered, “O’ Angus, I love you with a single-minded devotion, as only one true mate can love another. My devotion to you is pure. You are my joy. I will spend all my days showing you what you mean to me.”

After step four, the Guardsman pledged, O’ mo mac tire beloved, it is a great blessing that you have now walked four steps with me. May the Universe and the Goddess of All bless you. You bring untold joy and unending love to my life.”

“O, mo Dragon beloved, I promise to always be by your side,” Olivia whispered.

Hurrying on, Angus began, “O’ my sweet Olivia, on this fifth step, may the Universe and the Goddess of All make us prosperous.”

The she-wolf was so filled with love and the beauty of the moment her words were little more than a breath crossing her lips as she affirmed, “O Angus, I will share both in your joys and sorrows for all our tomorrows.”

They were almost there, almost officially mated in the eyes of the Universe, the Goddess of All, her ancestors and her pack and Olivia could barely hold still as Angus recited the words of the sixth step. “By walking six steps with me, my lovely mate, you have filled my heart with untold happiness. May I, too, fill your heart with great joy and peace, every second of every day.”

“And may I fill your heart with great joy and peace. I promise that I will always be with you and that nothing and no one will ever be able to keep me from your side.” Olivia sighed, before following Angus to the seventh and final step where he knelt down on one knee and looking deep into her eyes said with so much love the she-wolf could feel it to the depths of her soul, “O’ mo mac tire álainn, as you have walked the seven steps with me, our love and friendship have become inseparable, blessed and unbreakable. We now completely belong to one another. May I always slumber with you in my arms and wake to the sound of your sweet voice. You are mine and I am yours.”

“My mate, by the law of the Universe and the spirits of our honorable ancestors, we belong to one another for all time. I love you with a pure heart. All the spirits are witnesses to this fact. I shall never deceive you, nor leave your side and I shall love you forever.”

Olivia had just uttered the final words that sealed eternity with her dragon when Angus slid the largest, most gorgeous heart-shaped ruby ring with smaller, brilliant, round diamonds on either side, set in platinum with tiny diamonds filling the band onto her finger. Holding her gaze, her dragon stated for all to hear, “This is but a small outward sign of the enormous love I feel for you. I hope that you will wear it every day of our eternity together and when you look at it, please always know that you own me - body, mind, soul, and most importantly heart. I am yours and will spend every minute of every hour of every day striving to be worthy of your love.”

Tears flowed down her cheeks as, Olivia tugged on Angus’ hands until he was standing before her. Closing the distance between them, Olivia laid her lips to his and while kissing him with every ounce of love she had, she whispered into his mind, “Never has a wolf loved her mate more than I love you, my wonderful dragon man.”

Chapter Fourteen

Marrok pronounced them mates before the pack and the reception was in full swing on the other side of Wolf Hall within ten minutes. They danced and ate and celebrated their union until both Olivia and her wolf had simply had enough. They wanted to be alone with their mate and were willing to be rude to do it.

Making her way through a sea of people, Olivia walked up behind Angus, put her hands on his shoulders, stood on her tip toes and after biting his earlobe and hearing his resulting growl, whispered, “Can we please leave?”

Turning so fast he was merely a blur, Angus had her in his arms and was marching towards her home before Olivia knew what was happening. Chuckling, she cuddled into his chest. “We didn’t say goodbye to anyone.”

“They know where we’re going.” He kissed the top of her head and waggled his eyebrows. “And they know better than to bother us.”

Stepping up onto her porch, her dragon made quick work of the front door, crossed the threshold and kicked the door shut before he stopped and let her slide down his body. Drowning in his mesmerizing violet gaze, Olivia slowly slid her fingers into his hair and pulled his mouth to hers. Their kiss went from soft and passionate to hard and fiery in the beat of their combined hearts.

His hands grabbed her ass and once again her feet left the floor as she fisted his hair. Olivia’s back touched the wall, her dress rode up her legs as she wrapped them around his waist and he pushed the bar of his aroused cock against her wet, silk-covered pussy. Rolling her hips, trying to satiate the earth-shattering need she knew would always come from the touch of her mate, the she-wolf tore her lips from her mate’s and gasped, “Angus, oh my goddess, I need you. I need… I need to feel you… all of you.”

No sooner had the words left her mouth than her mate was stalking into the living room, and coming to a jarring halt in the center of the room. When her toes touched the ground, his hands left her waist, immediately unzipping her dress while his lips nipped and tasted across her décolletage.

Tearing at his clothes, she let his jacket hit the floor, pulled the buttons from his shirt until it was completely open and then threw the offending material over her shoulder while squirming out of her gown. Together, they were all hands and lips and fiery passion. Their foreplay was frantic and forceful and blessedly over in less than a minute.

Using his enhanced speed, Angus spread a quilt on the floor, laid Olivia atop and knelt at her feet. With his hands around one of her ankles, he kissed up the inside of her leg with tiny love bites and licks until her pussy was slick with desire and she was crazy with need.

Laying down, his wide shoulders pushed open her legs, spreading her wide as her clit throbbed and her hips raised of their own volition. Smiling a smile that was all male pride, Angus looked Olivia right in the eye as he slipped first one and then another finger into her already quaking pussy and asked, “Does my little wolf need her dragon?”

Gasping at how good just his fingers felt and unable to speak, Olivia nodded and mewled as he added a third finger then leaned down and repeatedly flicked her swollen nubbin making her scream, “Angus… oh my…. Yes…”

Passion burnt through her veins as Angus removed his fingers and thrust his tongue deep inside her, licking her pussy and sucking her clit, setting a miraculous rhythm that hurtled Olivia into her first orgasm within minutes. Her fingers closed tighter on his hair, holding him tight to her body as flames of passion threatened to burn her alive.

Barely coherent, Olivia opened her eyes just in time to look at the miracle that was her mate as his cock entered her in one fluid motion as he growled, “You are mine and I am yours. Now and forever, Olivia MacLendon. Never shall we part,” he exhaled as the tip of his cock touched the bottom of her womb. “Eternity is ours. I love you, mo mac tíre beag milis.”

Leaning forward, Angus placed his hands on either side of her head, lifting her hips off the quilt and holding completely still as his cock throbbed, filling her so full she felt as though they were finally truly one. Moving out of her and right back in over and over, picking up speed with every pass, stroking her sensitive bundle of nerves and bumping her clit, Angus leaned even farther forward and sucked her hardened nipple into his mouth. Working it with his tongue and teeth to the same perfect rhythm and speed as his erection worked in and out of her slick channel. The sensations were mind-blowing, unlike anything she’d ever experienced. Olivia could do nothing but hold on and let herself be loved.

Each slap of his flesh to hers made both woman and wolf howl, “Angus… oh, Angus… Yes… oh, yes!”

Her pussy tightened. He drove harder. Her nails bit into the skin of his shoulders and back. He thrust with unwavering precision, driving the air from her lungs.

Letting her nipple fall from his lips Angus snarled, “Say it, Olivia, say you are mine.”

Her wolf loved being possessed, loved belonging to her dragon as Olivia’s nails elongated and fur covered the back of her hands and tops of her feet while she shrieked, “Yours… I am yours, Angus. I will always be yours.”

“Mine.” He thrust over and over.

“Yours.”

Olivia was perched on the edge of the most extreme pleasure. A gift that only Angus could give her. Leaning forward, he pressed his teeth to her shoulder and while growling, “Mine,” over and over from his mind to hers, the Guardsman bit down, breaking her delicate skin and marking her for all time.

Olivia shattered in millions of pieces. Everything moved in slow motion. Fireworks burst behind her closed eyelids. Pleasure was her only focus as she wailed until her voice was scratchy and joy filled her so completely she was sure she’d lost consciousness but their consummation wasn’t over yet.

Angus’ cock thickened within her as his movements became frantic, causing her to orgasm again as he emptied himself into her. Fire and desire filled his eyes when he raised his head and smiled down at her.

Cupping his face, Olivia whispered, “I am yours, now and forever, just as you are mine.” She gave a raspy chuckle through her abused throat, “And you made sure the world could see your mark.”

Pulling himself from her body, Angus laid down beside her, looking quite satisfied as he pulled her across his chest and said, “When we are mated in the way of my ancestors, we will both be marked by the Universe, branded just above where I bit you tonight.”

Rubbing his bite mark, loving his animal nature, Olivia tangled her legs with his as their bodies cooled and looked at her ring, replying, “I can’t wait. You can mark me as many ways as you like. I want the whole world to know who I belong to and who belongs to me.”

Angus’ thumb and forefinger toyed with her ring. “This was my mother’s mother’s ring. Grandmother Aoife was mated to one of the original Dragon Kings, the same one whose soul I carry within me. I didn’t know her well or for long, but I remember the day she entrusted this to me and told me to give it to my true mate, the woman I loved more than myself.”

Olivia rolled over and propped her chin on her hand on Angus’ chest and listened as he went on, “And that is you, my beautiful, alluring Olivia.” He lifted his head and kissed the tip of her nose before whispering, “Thank you for saving me.” Her dragon stopped but she could see he wanted to say more, so she waited and when he spoke, his words touched her heart and her eyes filled with tears of joy.

“Thank you for loving me. I will not always be the easiest to live with, but I will always adore you as no other can and will do everything in my power to make you the happiest wolf in the world.”

Crawling across his chest until her lips were almost touching his Olivia murmured, “Thank you for coming back to me.” She laid her lips to his and finished her thought in his mind. “I adore you and cannot wait for every second of our forever.”

Chuckling as his arms wound around her and he deepened their kiss, Angus added, “I hope that is true because I have a lot to learn, like what is a DVR and how do I make a call on a cell phone?”

Loving the ease of their relationship, opened completely to her mate, Olivia snickered, “There will be time for all that, later…if I ever let you up from here.”

“I love the way you think, mo mac tíre álainn. Oh yes, I love it.”

THE END

Sassy Mates

Thank you for reading Sassing Her Dragon! I hope you enjoyed reading this book as much as I enjoyed writing it. If you did, please consider leaving a review when you have time.

Discover the series that inspired the World!

AUTHOR: Milly Taiden

TITLES: (listed in series order)

Dirty Scent of a Mate | A Mate’s Bite | Unexpectedly Mated | The Mate Challenge | Fighting For Her Mate | A Fang in the Sass

WEBSITE: http://millytaiden.com/

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About Julia

Find all my stories on Amazon!

Hey Y’all! I’m Julia Mills the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author of the Dragon Guard Series. I without a doubt admit to being a sarcastic, southern woman who would rather spend all day laughing than a minute crying. Living with my two most amazing daughters and a menagerie of animals, keeps me busy but I love telling a good story. Now, that I’ve decided to write the stories running through my brain, life is just a blast!

My beliefs are simple. A good book along with shoes, makeup, and purses will never let a girl down and no hero ever written will compare to my real-life hero, my dad! I’m a sucker for a happy ending and alpha men make me swoon.

I’m still working on my story but I promise it will contain as much love and laughter as I can pack into it! Now, go out there and create your own story!!! Dare to Dream! Have the Strength to Try EVERYTHING! Never Look Back!

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Also by Julia Mills

Find Them All on Amazon

*****

The Dragon Guard Series

Her Dragon to Slay, Dragon Guard #1

Her Dragon’s Fire, Dragon Guard #2

Haunted by Her Dragon, Dragon Guard #3

For the Love of Her Dragon, Dragon Guard #4

Saved by Her Dragon, Dragon Guard #5

Only for Her Dragon, Dragon Guard #6

Fighting for Her Dragon, Dragon Guard #7

Her Dragon’s Heart, Dragon Guard #8

Her Dragon’s Soul, Dragon Guard #9

The Fate of Her Dragon, Dragon Guard #10

Her Dragon’s No Angel, Dragon Guard #11

Her Dragon, His Demon, Dragon Guard #12

Resurrecting Her Dragon, Dragon Guard #13

The Scars of Her Dragon, Dragon Guard #14

Her Mad Dragon, Dragon Guard #15

Tears for Her Dragon, Dragon Guard #16

Guarding Her Dragon, Dragon Guard #17

Her Love, Her Dragon: The Saga Begins, A Dragon Guard Prequel

*****

The ‘Not-Quite’ Love Story Series

Vidalia: A ‘Not-Quite Vampire Love Story

Phoebe” A ‘Not-Quite’ Phoenix Love Story

Zoey: A ‘Not-Quite’ Zombie Love Story

Jax: A ‘Not-Quite’ Puma Love Story

Heidi: A ‘Not-Quite’ Hellhound Love Story (Magic & Mayhem Kindle World)

*****

Kings of the Blood

VIKTOR: Heart of Her King ~ Kings of the Blood ~ Book 1

ROMAN: Fury of Her King ~ Kings of the Blood ~ Book2

ACHILLES: Soul of Her King ~ Kings of the Blood ~ Book 3

*****

CAUGHT: A Vampire Blood Courtesan Romance