Page 78 of The Ruby Dragon's Unconventional Mate

They all broke out into laughter, and Lars knew this was what he needed. He’d needed to not be alone in his head. He’d needed his family.

He reached over to grab Bryant’s hand.I love you so.

I love you too, baby. Are you feeling better?

I am. You and Arthur…He snorted when Andine and Slippy jumped along the counter to sniff the food.And these guys too. You remind me why I’m a guardian in the first place.

“You’ll fly again soon,” Bryant said out loud.

“Of course you will.” Arthur put a plate of hot tortillas and butter in front of them. “But until then, have some.”

“Oh, I will.” He slathered on butter and then stuffed his mouth. “And are you going to make churros?”

Chapter

Twenty-Seven

Bryant soared over the wing, letting Lars watch it through his eyes. Bless his heart, he was starting to really chafe at having to drive, or be driven, everywhere. He was used to just popping into the air within the wing.

But while pregnant dragons had probably flown for centuries, since humans had developed long-range guns, they’d all had to start being more cautious. Even in their own boundaries.

So Lars was grounded.,

Love. It’s so pretty out there tonight.

It is. When I get home, we’ll sit out on the patio.He had one more quick pass to make, and then he would spend good time with his mate.

Go on, Bryant.

The voice startled him damn near out of the sky.

Jason? I thought you were retired.

I am, but I felt like a pass for old times. Go home. I’ll finish.

Thank you, my friend. On my way home, baby.

Wow. That’s so sweet!

I’ll return the favor when his grandkids come back to town and do some work for him so he can see them.

He spiraled down to land at their house, seeing Arthur peer through the window to make sure it was him. He grinned. Arthur was a good Keeper, and he felt awful for having been so mean about it. Oh, he still had his moments, but Alban and Arthur proved themselves daily.

They weren’t dragon killers.

Arthur handed him his robe as he walked in the door. “Welcome home.”

“Thank you. How is Lars?”

Arthur handed him a basket filled with goodies—sweets, pastries, sandwiches, and there was Thermos of what he would bet was hot tea. “All the way at the top of the tower. I think he misses flying.”

“Yep.” Bryant nodded. “He does. He is quick to fly.”

Arthur winked at him. “Soon. But you two enjoy. I’ll close up down here.”

He nodded to Arthur, took the basket with a smile. “Thank you. Of course.”

He wended his way all the way up to the fourth floor to the round, fascinating little tower that was filled with the most fantastical things: little toys and books, huge cushions, and fairy lights making it glow. It was like a fantasy room with the main focus the huge window that looked out over the entire wing.

---