Page 20 of Spooks & Specters

Hudson’s mind was ablaze with plans. Brilliant, sneaky plans involving his men. He couldn’t help but smile, for scheming was second nature to a dragon.

His mates were in desperate need of a break from the chaos and turmoil surrounding them, but it was far too dangerous for them to venture out into the world right now. The very thought made Hudson’s heart ache with frustration.

What was the term humans used? Ah, yes. A staycation.

He’d had to be sneaky, but he’d arranged to have a picnic basket prepared for them. Stella had come through like she always did. He’d also sent a text to his inner circle—Torres, in particular—giving them a heads-up on what he had planned for the day and to make sure where they were going was safe.

It was highly unlikely someone could come onto Hudson’s territory without either his dragons or the wards around the place letting him know, but it was better to be safe than sorry.

Hudson walked into the kitchen and spotted Stella immediately. “Good morning.”

“Good morning, Majesty. I just finished your request, and you’re ready to go. This one has all your food.” Stella pointed at the huge wicker basket.

“What did you fix us?” Hudson asked as he started to open the top.

Stella lightly slapped his hand away from it. “I know you masterminded this, but you deserve to be surprised too. No peeking.”

Grinning, Hudson jerked his hand back. “At least tell me the wine and cheese I requested is in there.”

“Of course.” Stella pointed at another picnic basket nearby on the counter. “That one has the glasses, along with plates, silverware, napkins, and salt and pepper. Food is in this one.”

“Two baskets?”

“Sorry, but yes. Two of you can handle the baskets, and the other one can wrangle whatever gear you want to take with you. I’ve also spelled the one that contains food to keep it cold.”

“I had Torres and Mitchell scout the area we’re going to be, so I asked them to take the rafts with them.”

“Are you taking the boat out?”

“Probably. Connie really likes to ski, and the gear is already on the boat. I plan to spend the day on the lake. We’ll leave after lunch and be back after nightfall, so go ahead and hide those before my mates show up for breakfast.”

“No problem. Hope you guys have fun.”

“I’m really looking forward to it. And thank you for doing this.”

“Always a pleasure. Better head back before they notice you’re missing.”

“Indeed.” Hudson hurried back to their quarters and fixed himself a cup of coffee. Settling down in the living area, he took a deep sip, relishing the rich and bold flavor as Connie wandered out of the bedroom.

“Morning.”

“Good morning. Are you just getting up?” Hudson asked.

“Yes. Kit’s still asleep,” Connie replied, scratching his belly.

“For now. He’ll probably wake up since both of us are gone.”

“Yep. Just like I did when you left our bed.”

Hudson should’ve known. “Would you like some coffee?”

“Sure. Thank you.”

“Of course, sweetheart.” Hudson stood and went to it. It didn’t appear as if Connie was going to push him as to why he wasn’t in bed.

Connie joined him at their little coffee bar, and Hudson handed him a mug. All Connie wore was night pants, and his gorgeous red hair was messy.

Connie took a sip of his morning java and sighed happily. “Good stuff.”

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