Page 94 of Worthy Promises
A fiery, unpleasant burn spread across the top of Oliver’s arm, but all he could focus on was the gorgeous pink dragon appearing on his skin. Before Oliver managed a glance at his owl on Worth’s skin, the Duke Argent hauled him close and kissed his ear.
“I hope today was special enough for you,” Worth whispered.
“It was perfect. I love you.”
“I love you too.”
Still clutching Oliver to his chest, Worth turned to the audience. “Thank you for sharing this day with us. We wanted to include everyone as you are each such an important part of ourlives, but it was impossible. I wish for Fate to bless each of you as she has done for Oliver and me. Don’t forget to check your front doors; you never know when she’ll lead your mate straight to you.”
“Ignore his advice and get out there to Fated D’Vaire events so you can find them quicker,” Rafe insisted.
“While you’re contemplating how to meet your other half, let’s enjoy some of the delicious-looking cupcakes Brynn brought,” Dra’Kaedan exclaimed. Brynn had crafted coconut snowy owl cupcakes and blue velvet with pink frosting dragon ones. Those were the two cake flavors favored by Rafe and Dra’Kaedan, who both loved sweets. Usually there were sheet cakes, but no one had allowed Noirin and Kendrick near the kitchen to prepare them. Since Henry’s mate smelled likepain au chocolatto him, Worthington and Oliver had insisted the chef’s contribution to the day include croissants for everyone to enjoy.
“Dinner first,” Saura reminded her sweet-loving son.
“Yeah, yeah, yeah, let’s burn some meat for these shifters,” Dra’Kaedan replied.
“That was the last of the D’Vaire traditions,” Worth said, kissing Oliver. “It’s incomplete until Dra’Kaedan tries to weasel his way into getting sweets early.”
Oliver grinned. “Thedaypart of thingsis complete at least.”
“Owliver, I love the way you think,” Worth said with a grin and another kiss. Then he pulled him into a hug. “I love everything about you.”
“And I you,” Oliver replied, holding him tighter. It was a perfect day.
Chapter 32
After a glorious evening, Worth was eager to get Oliver alone to seal their bond. To his surprise, Mac had shoved a box in his hand as he and Oliver had crossed the deck to escape the party. Although some people had already ventured to their bedrooms, there were plenty of D’Vaires still dancing, chatting, and enjoying their time with the entire clan.
Mac had refused to explain anything and waved Worth off. Since Worth wasn’t about to stand around questioning the Dark Indigo Duke when he could be stripping for Oliver, he didn’t argue and took Oliver’s hand to race to their lovely pink-and-white suite. Apparently, Oliver was of the same mind, because they made it to their room at a record pace.
Once the door was closed behind them, Worth turned to face Oliver.
“What’s in the box?” Oliver asked.
“I haven’t a clue. Should we open it now or save it for later?”
Oliver caressed the side of Worth’s face with his fingertips and smiled. “A minute or two of extra anticipation won’t hurt us. Let’s see what’s in the box. Have a seat on the bed.”
Doing as he was told, Worth sat and waited for Oliver to snuggle close next to him. It was odd not to have Asteria withthem, but Orion and Zarasha had asked to have a sleepover with her. Asteria had appeared content with the idea, so Worth had okayed it. The plan was for the threesome to share a tent near the home of the Faedrekans outside. Given how protective the D’Vaires were of the children, it didn’t surprise him that every Fae had volunteered to share the experience with the kids.
Content that Asteria, Orion, and Zarasha were destined to have a fun night, Worth focused on the small box sitting on his lap. Worth smiled at Oliver, then lifted the lid to find a small card, which he read aloud.
Worth and Oliver,
Sorcery D’Vaire is notorious for keeping unfinished projects quiet, but we agreed this prototype would be fun for you both tonight. With plenty of help, Grigori is experimenting with an aphrodisiac for shifters. It doesn’t have the punch of the vampire ones yet, but that doesn’t mean you won’t notice the effects. I put a bottle of champagne and two glasses on your coffee table. Dump it in there and thank us tomorrow.
Love,
Mac, Idris, Roger, and Sorcery D’Vaire
“Hmm, what do you think, Owlie?” Worth purred, his mind already spinning with the possibility of amping up the passion that burned so intensely between him and Oliver. “Are we ready to be pioneers of science and use an experimental potion?”
Oliver pulled one of two tiny white bottles out of the box and twirled it so the light caught the pink potion. “Do you think it’s purposely the same color as your dragon?”
“There are owl feathers engraved on the bottle. None of them miss a detail.”
“I think it’s a great idea, don’t you?” Oliver asked, brushing his lips against Worth’s.
