Page 97 of Worthy Promises
Worthington was in the backyard attending a sword class taught by Rafe, so his phone was in their bedroom.
“I take it you have some news for us?”
“I do,” the investigator said. “Thankfully, His Grace’s biological mother has a rare first name, and I found only a single dragon old enough to have birthed both His Grace and his brother. Her name is Ismay Mardasdraconis. She lives at Court Mardas. I’ll send you both an email with her phone number and mailing address.”
Stunned that the investigator had already located Ismay, Oliver hardly knew what to say. “Thank you so much, I appreciate how quickly you tracked her down.”
“My pleasure, is there anything else I can do for you and His Grace?”
“Not that I know of, but I’ll speak with Worthington and let you know.”
“Great, thank you for trusting me to handle this matter for you. You should receive the email in the next few minutes.”
Oliver wished the man well and hung up. He’d barely ended the call when a notification flashed on the screen, alerting him to the promised email. Eager to speak with Worthington, Oliver set his laptop on the sofa and rose. Orion was sitting on the sofa with Kendrick at his side, RJ in his arms, and a big grin on his face. There was no need to worry that Orion would miss him or needed him for anything.
It was tempting to run, but Oliver composed himself as he stalked quickly to the backdoor. The sound of clanging metal hit his ears as he stepped outside. Instead of making a mad dash for his mate, Oliver closed the door and took a moment to appreciate the artistry of the men and women swinging weapons.
Although it was merely practice, the combatants went after each other with intent. Naturally, his eye drifted to his other half. Worthington moved elegantly, and his gaze was determined as he faced off with Aleksander. They both preferreda two-hand sword, and they swung the blades in large arcs as they battled.
The muscles of Worthington’s arms bunched, and Oliver appreciated anew the grace of his long well-defined limbs. No man was as beautifully made as his Worthington. The tip of Aleksander’s sword hit the ground, and Worthington mirrored his stance as Rafe ventured over. His Highness spoke with the pair, then Worthington turned his head toward Oliver.
The Duke Argent grinned and shoved his weapon at his brother. Returning his smile, Oliver opened his arms as Worthington raced to the deck. Their mouths met in a soft kiss as they embraced.
“Hello, Owliver,” Worthington purred.
“I’m sorry to interrupt your class.”
“I don’t mind. Everything okay?”
Oliver didn’t bother to suppress the urge to brush his lips against Worthington’s again. “The investigator called me. They located Ismay.”
“Aleksander,” Worthington called out. “We’ve found Ismay.”
Rafe called an end to the class, and Aleksander grabbed his mate’s hand. They soon joined Oliver and Worthington on the deck. The other attendees of the class hovered close to hear what had been discovered.
“Where is she?” Aleksander asked.
“Court Mardas,” Oliver replied.
Aleksander’s brows flew up, and Brogan whistled.
“Mardas?” the Grand Duke asked. “That’s interesting.”
“Court Mardas is the former court of Chrys,” Worthington explained. “Chrys was King Mardas when Fate chose him to be Emperor.”
“It’s a smaller court, but one with prestige thanks to its connection to its former ruler,” Aleksander added. “Anyone remember who the King is now?”
“King Egmont Mardas,” Mac replied. “I’ve seen him at the dragon fair, but I don’t think I’ve spoken to him.”
“His Highness made it a point to introduce himself to the Grand Warlock,” Brogan stated with a frown. “Blodwen was with us, and he barely looked at her. I got the feeling he has little use for those outside of royalty.”
“A pompous jerk and a woman willing to give the vile Boian two children in exchange for money,” Worthington said. “That checks out.”
“What’s your plan?” Aleksander asked.
“The investigator emailed us her phone number and mailing address,” Oliver told Worthington as he rubbed his back. “We can contact her if you want.”
“I think we should write her a letter. Nothing too long. Just ask her if she’s willing to meet me,” Worthington replied. “Do I assume she knows who I am?”
