Oh.

Right.

“You’ll probably have to sit by me when you get back, but I’m sure I’ll be okay,” I said.

He agreed, and slipped out.

I was definitely terrible… but it was working, so who the fuck cared?

I sketchedand watched the movie for half an hour or so. Though I was still sweaty, the air conditioning was blasting—pretty sure my mate was to thank for that—so I was fine. I ended up trading my bikini for a loose tank top and a pair of comfortable shorts, and life was even better afterward.

The movie ended right before Liam got back, and I turned another one on just so I had something playing in the background. I had a few good ideas as far as the runes went, so I figured I’d just go with the best option first and the others it if it didn’t work.

Liam stepped inside the bungalow with a tan fabric bag full of plants on one shoulder, a mostly-empty tote hanging from the inside of his elbow on the other arm, a coffee cup in one hand, and a box of chocolates in the other.

“Stop right there,” I said, grabbing my phone.

He froze, his eyes scanning the house for threats. “What? What happened?”

“Nothing.” I lifted my phone and snapped a few photos.

His forehead creased. “Are you taking pictures of me?”

“Yeah. I need this evidence for the next time I wonder why you’re not romantic enough. Note to self: he will bring chocolate and dessert drinks if requested. Cannot read minds”

His ears reddened. “Dragons can usually communicate mentally with their mates when they seal their bond.”

“Oh, wow. Really?”

“Yeah.” He handed the drink and chocolates over and set the bags down on the coffee table. “I doubt it will apply to us though. I tried reaching out to you mentally when we flew together, which works for dragon couples, but I don’t think you heard anything.”

“Nope, but I’d rather not have anyone in my head. It’s loud enough in there as it is.” I took a sip of the drink and nearly groaned.

Chocolatey bliss.

Questions about calorie counts would not be asked.

“Did you try this?” I checked.

“No. How are you feeling?” He eyed the seat next to me on the couch.

The big, sexy dummy wasstillnot sure where he should sit.

“Totally fine,” I said honestly. He wouldn’t expect me to tell him the truth, though.

He scowled and sat down right next to me, draping his arm over my shoulder.

“Here. Try it.” I handed him the cup.

He took it reluctantly. “It’s yours.”

“And I offered to share. Just taste it.”

He grumbled, but lifted it to his lips. When he took a slow sip, he actually did groan.

“Fuck. That’s incredible.”

“Right?”