Page 19 of Wild for the Wyvern

Once she has seasoned all the ingredients, she layers it all back in the pot, then puts the whole thing in the oven.

I clean the dishes she’s made so far and wipe down the counters while she pulls dishes from the cabinet.

“I wonder if Rialto needs a chef.” She leans on the counter next to the sink.

Drying my hands, I hold my breath, wondering if I heard her correctly. “You would stay here?”

Her grin is wide. “Forgive me Drayce, but I can’t picture you living in the city. I think someone might notice a wyvern flying over Manhattan.”

“No. I would be uncomfortable in a city.” I’m understating the issue. I have to shift or the beast in me will go mad. “I would be very happy if you would stay here.”

She blushes and leans against my arm, which I wrap around her waist. “I’m happy and I’m not sure I’ve ever said that before in my life.” She looks at me with wide surprised eyes.

Capturing her lips, I kiss her until we’re both breathless.

“I could get an apartment in town if you want. I don’t want to assume…”

Before she can work herself into a fret-fest, I kiss her nose. “I would love it if you would stay here with me.”

“I would love that too. I packed a bag, but it’s with Dean and Meg. I’ll have to get the rest of my things from my apartment at some point. I can break my lease and quit my job in a few days.”

“After we eat, I’ll take you to the resort and we’ll get your bag. I can drive you to the city for the rest.” I love that we’re talking about her staying here permanently.

Iput the last dish from the most delicious meal I’ve ever eaten into the dishwasher as the doorbell rings.

Kori’s eyes widen. “Are you expecting someone?”

“No.” It’s rare for anyone to drop by since I live so far up the mountain.” I fold the towel over the handle and walk to the door.

“Hi, Drayce. I think we should talk.” Astra is wearing jeans and a green blouse. I’ve never seen her in clothes before.Nymphs generally wear sheer dresses or nothing at all. Still, her allure is just as present as ever, though I don’t feel compelled to her the way I always have in the past.

A few months ago, I was prepared to help her run away and before that, I would have told anyone that I loved Astra, though she isn’t my mate. I wanted her, that much is true. “Astra, I… Why are you here?”

“May I come in?” She steps closer.

I back up to give her room.

Kori gapes from a few feet away.

“Hello,” Astra says. “I’m sorry. I didn’t know you had company.” She smiles.

Kori blinks and offers her hand. “I’m Kori.”

“Astra. I’ll be Astra Barbaros soon. I’m sorry to barge in. I wanted to speak to Drayce.” She looks at me. “Should I come back at another time?”

I’m about to say yes, when Kori says, “Not at all. We’ve just finished lunch. You two can talk and I’ll take a little walk.”

“You don’t have to leave.” I don’t know why I say it, because it would probably be better if she didn’t hear whatever Astra is going to say, but the thought of her walking out the door fills me with dread.

Kori’s smile is magical. “I won’t go far.”

Astra cocks her head and looks from Kori to me, then smiles. “I’ll only be five minutes.”

As Kori slides into her shoes and steps outside, my heart clenches. When I look at Astra, my gut turns in knots. What had I ever seen in her? I mean, she’s beautiful. No one can dispute that, but there's no comparison to the love of a true mate. I blurt out, “I’m sorry.”

Her musical laugh fills the room. “That’s why I’m here. I wanted to apologize for sending the bird rather than coming myself to tell you I couldn’t run away with you.”

“Thanks for that.” Somehow, it hardly matters anymore. I don’t know what else to say.

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