Page 40 of Fired Up Love

“But he doesn’t know this detail,” she realized, excitement building as pieces clicked into place. “Otherwise he wouldn’t be trying to eliminate either of us. He must think there’s another way in.”

They hurriedly gathered the journals, finding matching passages about a hidden chamber beneath the central pool at the spa. The texts hinted at the Founding Pyre’s true purpose—not merely a source of power, but a balanced triad of magical energies maintaining Enchanted Falls’s supernatural sanctuary.

“We need to investigate the chamber,” Zina said, gathering her notes, though reluctant to leave the warmth of Xai’s embrace. “Before Severin figures this out.”

Xai nodded, walking her to the door with evident reluctance.

At the threshold, he pulled her close once more, his kiss a promise that transcended words. His hands cradled her face with exquisite gentleness, belying the strength she knew they possessed. When they finally parted, Zina felt the lingering tingle of his heat on her lips, a pleasant burn that reminded her of his unique nature.

“Thank you for dinner,” she murmured, her lioness purring contentedly beneath her skin. “And the... research.”

His smile held equal parts tenderness and desire. “The first of many, I hope.”

Her heart raced as their eyes met, mutual understanding passing between them. Whatever happened next, they would face it together—dragon and lioness united against a common threat. And perhaps, she realized with sudden clarity, united by something far more precious than ancient magic or family legacy.

Something that felt remarkably like the beginning of love.

FORTY

Dawn painted Enchanted Falls in pastel watercolors, the rising sun casting long shadows through the front window of her spa. Zina Parker breathed in the lightly herb-scented air as she approached the front door from inside. Dew glistened on the protective charm hanging from the door handle outside—Kalyna’s handiwork from yesterday.

Her key stuck in the lock, requiring an extra jiggle—a quirk she’d been meaning to fix but secretly found endearing. The familiar resistance made this placehersin a way nothing else had since her parents’ deaths.

Switching on the soft recessed lighting, she surveyed the reception area with critical eyes. Glass display cases replaced, water damage scrubbed away, protective sigils hidden discreetly beneath fresh paint. Considering yesterday’s chaos, the recovery bordered on miraculous.

Zina traced her fingers along the repaired reception counter. “You’d be proud, Mom,” she whispered, her voice barely disturbing the morning stillness. “We’re still standing.”

Her phone buzzed with a message from Bryn:Running late. Coffee machine disaster at home. Save me.

Smiling, Zina typed back:No worries. I’ll put on a pot here.

She had just filled the coffeemaker when the distinctive rumble of a powerful engine broke the quiet. Not the practical hum of Bryn’s sensible sedan or Artemis’s cheerful hybrid. Something deeper, richer—almost predatory in its confidence.

Curiosity drew her to the window. Outside, a vintage Aston Martin in midnight blue eased to the curb like a sleek panther. Her breath caught as Xai Emberwylde unfolded his tall frame from the driver’s seat. Morning light played across his features, softening the usual austerity of his expression.

He wore dark jeans and a chambray button-down with rolled sleeves—casual by his standards, yet somehow still commanding. His light brown hair caught golden highlights in the sun, a subtle reminder of his draconic nature.

Zina’s heart performed an annoying flutter. Her lioness stirred, interested in a way that made her cheeks warm. She caught her reflection in the window—dark waves tumbling over her shoulders, yesterday’s exhaustion lingering beneath her eyes. No time to freshen up before he reached the door.

The bell chimed as Xai entered, bringing with him that distinctive scent—cedar and spice with an underlying hint of woodsmoke that triggered her enhanced senses. His golden-brown eyes found hers immediately, warmth flickering in their depths before he glanced around the restored space.

“Impressive recovery,” he said, his deep voice resonating in the quiet room.

Zina crossed her arms, leaning against the counter in forced casualness. “Nothing keeps a Parker down for long.” She gestured toward the coffeemaker gurgling in the corner. “You’re out early. Council crisis or social call?”

A hint of a smile played at the corners of his mouth. “Neither. A proposition, actually.”

“That sounds ominous coming from a dragon.” She raised an eyebrow, surprised by her own boldness.

“Professional, I assure you.” He approached, stopping a respectful distance away. “Though perhaps with mutual benefits.”

Zina busied herself retrieving two mugs from beneath the counter, hiding her ridiculous blush. “I’m listening.”

“Have you heard of Aroma Alcove?”

The mug nearly slipped from her fingers. “The exclusive supernatural retreat? With the legendary scent masters?”

“The very same.” Xai accepted the coffee she offered, their fingers brushing momentarily. A tiny spark jumped between them—literal, not figurative. Neither acknowledged it. “They’re expecting us, if you’re interested.”

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