Page 8 of Burned

I swallow hard and squeeze the doorknob tighter.

Okay, so it looks like I only haveoneoption at the moment. Play the part of cooperative prisoner, figure out where Lord is keeping my sword, and, when the time is right, find a way to escape.

Easy enough, right?

I take one more deep breath and swing the door open to face my captor.

Chapter

Four

LORD

Alrick’s face is defiant, his jaw set like he’s ready for a fight that isn’t coming. His gaze darts around the room, clearly looking for something, and I can see the exact moment disappointment sets in.

He’s been getting stronger for the past couple of days, but to see him up and moving around loosens the knots in my chest. He’s okay. He’s really going to be fine. The war between guilt and relief isn’t any less intense than it was when I realized what he was days ago, but there are more pressing concerns at the moment.

“You must be hungry.”

He snaps his gaze to me and nods sharply. “Yes. Thank you.”

“Of course. I’ve laid out some clothes for you. They may be a little tight given your… physique, but they should do for now. You’re welcome to use the shower and anything else you need. Extra toothbrushes are under the sink.”

Alrick eyes me suspiciously, as if he thinks I plan to do him harm. Of course he does. Guilty conscience and all that. He’ll dome harm if he gets the chance, if I confirm his suspicion that I’m a dragon.

“Can I answer any questions for you?” I ask as amicably as I can manage. If I can keep things pleasant, hopefully bloodshed on either side won’t be necessary.

His gaze shifts to the bowl of soup before he walks toward it slowly. Perching on the edge of the bed, he lifts the glass of water and guzzles it down.

“When you found me…” He inhales audibly, and even from where I stand, I can hear the grumble of his stomach.

“Eat. We can talk after you freshen up. I’ll be downstairs in my study.”

A deep furrow appears across his brow as if he’s confused. “I’m free to leave this room?”

The bond in my chest vibrates, my dragon stirring with concern. Alrick gasps softly, reaching up to rub his sternum.

“You can leave the room, but I think it’s prudent to stay until you’ve fully regained your strength. That was quite an injury.” My jaw ticks. His injury is my only concern. At the moment, his life is tied to mine, so it’s prudent to consider his health and well-being.

He nods, breaking off a piece of bread and dunking in the soup. As he pops it into his mouth, he closes his eyes, nearly humming. “What is in this soup? It’s incredible.”

My dragon chuffs, pleased to make the hunter happy. “It’s an old family recipe. I’m glad you like it.”

He glances up at me briefly, and I’m struck by the intense blue of his eyes and the silky look to his long tresses, even after days of sleeping.

“I’ll leave you to it. Towels are in the linen closet next to the shower.”

“Thanks.”

I exit the bedroom and pull the door closed, leaning against it before forcing myself to walk away. I owe my family a check-in if I intend to keep them away from this discovery any longer. I’ll have enough to explain if they sense the bond, never mind if they figure out what Alrick is.

Rubbing my forehead, I descend the stairs lost in my own chaotic thoughts. How could I bond myself to this man? Why was I compelled to do so? Most importantly, how do I break it? My dragon thrashing at these thoughts only adds to my confusion.

In my study, I sit at my desk and stare straight ahead for several minutes before deciding on a group text.

LORD: Apologies for my behavior. I’m fine. My dragon was grieving.

I watch as three dots pop up and disappear numerous times before actual words appear.

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