Page 39 of Blazing Reactions

“If we could focus,” Bennett interrupted diplomatically, “on the actual medical situation?” He pulled up another holographic chart. “The cold iron didn’t just attack your system. It specifically targeted the integration points between your human and dragon DNA. However...” He glanced at Talon meaningfully.

“However?” Asher prompted.

“Your mate bond appears to be actively counteracting the damage. As I mentioned before, Talon’s ancient bloodline is providing a template for your DNA to stabilize around.”

“I need coffee,” Everett announced, reaching for his “therapeutic” coffeemaker.

“No one is using unauthorized electrical equipment near my patient,” Bennett said firmly.

“But—”

“Out.” Their mother pointed to the door. “Go help your father with his calculations before you break something expensive.”

As Everett slouched out, Asher caught sight of her phone on the bedside table. She tried to reach for it casually, but Talon was faster.

“No work,” he said firmly, moving it out of reach.

“I’m just checking email,” she protested weakly. “People depend on me for... important... science things.”

“‘Important science things’?” He raised an eyebrow. “The medication must be working.”

“Don’t sass me when I can’t sass back properly.” She tried to look stern but ruined it with a yawn.

Ten minutes later, Lori slipped in with a tablet hidden in a get-well flower arrangement. “I come bearing contraband,” she whispered, then jumped when Talon materialized behind her.

“Nice try,” he rumbled, plucking the tablet from the flowers.

“Traitor,” Asher mumbled at Lori. “You got caught.”

“Your dragon has scary ninja skills!” Lori defended. “Besides, I brought back up.” She pulled out a family-size bag of M&Ms.

“Now who’s the traitor?” Talon grumbled as Asher perked up.

“Oh please,” Lori rolled her eyes, settling into a chair. “Like you’re going to deny her anything right now.” Her phone buzzed and she grinned at the screen.

“How’s Levi?” Asher asked innocently.

“Shut up and eat your contraband chocolate.” But Lori’s cheeks flushed as she typed a quick reply.

THIRTY-SIX

Talon watched Asher with a slight grin. Despite her exhaustion, his mate’s eyes sparkled with mischief. “So, when did that happen?”

“When did what happen?” Lori didn’t look up from her phone. “I’m just coordinating security protocols.”

“With winky face emojis?” Asher tried to peek at the screen.

“I’m making security fun.” Lori tucked the phone away. “And stop deflecting from your own recovery. Some of us actually follow medical advice.”

“Says the woman who once hacked the CDC because she was ‘bored.’“

A knock interrupted their banter as Levi entered, tablet in hand. His usual stoic expression softened slightly at the sight of Lori, though he maintained his professional demeanor. “Sir, we have the preliminary reports from the sanctuary.”

Lori gathered her purse and phone. “I’ll see you guys a little later.” She walked out with more swing in her hips than a pendulum on a grandfather clock. Asher could only roll her eyes.

“Go ahead,” Talon nodded, his hand still entwined with Asher’s.

Levi began his briefing, only to be interrupted by his phone buzzing. Then buzzing again. And again. His lips twitched as he checked the screen.

---