Page 12 of Licking Fire

“Sheer luck maybe, or something else,” said Timothy, sounding as if he knew far more than he was letting on. “She is weakened from them. She requires rest, and we will have to monitor her closely for the next few days to be sure she does not take a turn for the worse.”

“Old friend, you speak in more riddles than my ancestors, who are famous for them,” stated Rayer, moving closer to Timothy. He would break him if he did not explain it all at once. Alondra could not be permitted to die. “Tell me what you sense on her, and how do I rid her of the toxins? How is it she did not instantly give in to your magik push? You will tell me now!”

“Sir, the hot chocolate has something in it that should help with the toxins. I’ll need to brew more to be added to other drinks, but for now, that should at least help her to rest and to stop the bleeding somewhat,” said Timothy, always showing respect, even though Rayer had told him years ago to simply call him by his first name. “Calm the dragon. It wishes to protect her, as do you, but it will drive her away if you’re not careful.”

Drive her away?

No!

She couldn’t leave him.

He stepped back, confused by his reactions to the woman. She was basically a stranger to him, yet he wanted to rush away with her and allow no others to ever look upon her. He wanted to keep her as his own.

“Convince her to stay with me. You are welcome to stay with me as well if it sets her mind at ease. She trusts you.”

Timothy smiled. “I remind her of her grandfather. I got that feeling from her. But there is something else. Something else that ties us, but I don’t know what just yet.”

“What does that mean?” he demanded.

“All will reveal itself in time, Rayer.”

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