Page 54 of Dragon His Heels
“A wise old dragon recently explained to me the concept of fated mates. He told me it’s like finding your other half, that person who complements you so perfectly, they make you feel whole. It’s like when you think you don’t care about the rules, she knows you do—and she helps ensure you stay in line. When you think you don’t want to be a leader, she knows better, and she constantly sets you up to succeed. When you didn’t even think you wanted to be a dad—ever—she helps you realize you want half a dozen offspring, so long as they’re with her. She makes you realize you never should have lied about it when you began to suspect that you may be fated mates.”
Talia stared at him, but he continued to stand facing the crowd of dragons as the noise level picked up. What was he saying? Was he—was he apologizing in front of the entire colony? To her? And was he—holy shit, did he just say he wanted half a dozen children? With her?
Six?
Gabe lifted his hand, until the volume decreased enough that he could continue.
“Many of you have heard the rumor that I’m immune.” More tittering and whispers. “I don’t know why—or if it’s even true. But—”
“It’s quite possible,” someone from the crowd called out. Talia scanned the room, trying to figure out who spoke. There was a swaying in the back of the room, and then the sea of bodies parted to let a man make his way toward the stage, where Gabe stood, staring down at him.
“Dad?”
