Page 11 of Emerald Waves
“I-I’d like that.”
Caro’s smile lit up my soul. I’d pleased him with my answer and willingness to be with him. How could I say no? Refusing a mate was the worst thing to do for both parties involved. But refusing a gorgeous attentive man such as Caro was nothing short of foolish, and I’d grown tired of being alone.
“I’ll ask Ionus to handle the renovation. He’ll know just what you need. I can promise you the security at our compound is top notch and your treasures will be well protected.”
Treasures.
Caro knew these books were my horde and he’d treat them with the utmost delicacy. That much I knew without question.
“Temperature controlled would be best. Airtight glass shelving for the ancient scrolls,” my mind wandered on, scanning my most treasured pieces.
“Ionus will be aware. If I recall correctly, he had a hand in erecting this building.”
“Yes.” Enough said, Ionus would ensure our greatest dragon assets would be protected.
“Let’s get you dressed and fed.” Caro pulled the drain plug then gently lifted me out and helped me to stand on the rug as he proceeded to dry me off.
I was naked.
In front of another person.
Wait, somehow I completely missed him undressing me?
“What’s going on inside that beautiful head of yours? Your entire body just tensed up?” Caro paused and glanced up to me. His hands slowly stroked my thighs in soothing circles. Though the concern that marred his handsome face was due to my words and that brought me no joy.
Wait, he called me beautiful.
“S-sorry. A million things ran through my head at once.”
“Any you care to share?”
“Just um.” My face burned. “Never been naked in front of anyone before.” Aside from those who’d shunned me that day. Though I’m happy to report it went without the erection I currently had, but I chose to leave that bit out. No need to say it when it stared him right in the face. Literally.
“Is it wrong of me to be happy about that? Knowing I’m the first one to see you this way?”
Had I unconsciously hidden all these years waiting for my mate?
No, we hid out of fear.
My dragon spoke the truth.
“When did I get dressed?”
“While you were stuck inside that handsome head of yours, I assessed your wounds, which are nearly healed, and dressed you. Now, let’s find food.”
“Probably not much in the kitchen. I pretty much live off take out from the diner.” Mable and Cicily took pity on me, at leastmy guess was that’s why they were so nice to me. But they delivered food regularly here. I tried to tip them well, but they refused it each time. I ordered all three meals once a day and reheated as I got hungry, otherwise I’d forget to eat. Given I rarely left my home, that had become a cave, there was nothing more than leftovers in the fridge. They always snuck a dessert inside the bag for me though. My little happy treat each day.
A bright moment in a very dark life.
No more.
Yes, no more, dragon.
“As soon as possible, that will all change. I’ll make healthy meals for you, and you’ll eat three times a day. For now, I’ll reach out to Mable and get an order delivered.”
I watched in awe as Caro drew his cell from his pocket and made the call. For as large as he was, he maneuvered around the small space that was my home with grace and ease. Smooth, flawless motions in a space meant for humans half his size. He was truly poetry in motion.
“Emerson, are you alright?”
