Page 26 of Marked Dragon

I nodded and rubbed the spot where the bond connection warmed. “We have to play along so we don’t raise suspicions.”

She saluted me. “I can do that.”

The bedroom door opened, and Queen Mira rushed in with three servants behind her. It was time to get ready.

* * *

Drinking coffee had been a mistake—somethingIneverimagined I’d say. But as I stood in the bathroom, taking in my appearance, the acid churned, adding to my upset stomach. I wanted to puke, but I couldn’t risk getting the gown dirty.

Thorn, Saphira, and his parents were trying to find a way in, but every time they peeked out of the entrance hidden in the woods, a warrior flew over. If they stepped out, the warrior’s dragon would sense them immediately. There were more guards than expected, which meant Drake must have pulled some in from nearby thunders. If Thorn and the others hadn’t gotten there several hours before dawn, they wouldn’t have made it into the tunnel. As it was, they were stuck and planning to move at the last possible second, when everyone’s guard would be at its lowest.

My long blonde hair cascaded over my shoulders in loose curls, and my makeup was done in earth tones with brown eyeshadow, blush with a golden sheen, and a warm brown lipstick that I wouldn’t have been able to pull off before becoming a dragon.

The dress had been unexpected—all gold, no white. It was a sleeveless one-shoulder sheath with ruffled beading throughout. The sweeping train gave it an elegant flare but didn’t go on for miles like those in the royal weddings. The sweetheart neckline emphasized my cleavage, and the slit on the left side of the skirt ended just shy of my hip, offering glimpses of my leg. The dress was gorgeous… royal and my style.

The look was completed by glittery silver high heels that clasped around the ankle. Queen Mira had given me an elegant diamond necklace to wear and large silver diamond earrings in the shape of a dragon. I reached for the bracelet Mom had given me, but all I touched was skin. My heart dropped, and I wished I had a token to remember her by, but I’d left it behind for Thorn.

The queen had picked out everything perfectly, just for the wrong son. My insides tore to shreds as I stared at my reflection.

High heels clacked toward me over the wood floor, and Eva entered the bathroom and stood beside me. She looked beautiful with her straight, dark brown hair and smoky eye makeup that made her steel-blue eyes pop, her lips a nude shade that appeared completely natural. Her dress was simple and elegant compared to mine. It was a matte silver with cap sleeves and a similar sweetheart neckline. The top was lace, and the long skirt was made of soft tulle with detailed ruching. She wore gold shoes but no jewelry.

“You look beautiful, Everly,” she said softly and frowned.

She didn’t have to explain. I knew what she was thinking—you look great, but I wish you didn’t since it’s almost time for your farce of a wedding.

I swallowed to keep down the vomit and turned toward her. “You look gorgeous, too.” Not only was my life changing, but hers was, too. I suspected this was the beginning of the end for us if Thorn didn’t get us out of here.

“Thanks.” She averted her gaze and crossed her arms.

Any updates?I hated harassing him, but our time was almost up. If he was going to rescue me, I kinda needed him to do it now.

We’re at the tunnel’s opening, waiting for the guard hovering over us to leave. Then, I’ll make my way out and blend in with the guests,he replied.

I choked and placed my hands on the counter, trying to breathe slowly.They’re looking out for you. You’re going to get caught.

They’re expecting me to blaze in like a crazed fated-mate monster,he replied, determination flowing through,not someone who tries to blend in with the crowd. No one besides Falkor, Ladon, and Brenton knows what I look like, so I’ll stay away from them and keep my head down. It’s my best chance at getting to you. I just have to keep my cool. I’m coming for you, Ev.

“Everly,” the queen called from the bedroom. “It’s almost time.”

I looked back at my reflection in the mirror. I’d always been the girl who tried to make peace and not cause problems and look at where that had gotten me. I’d been hoping that Thorn would save me, but maybe I needed to save myself.

First things first. I needed something I could use to defend myself.

Eva’s brows furrowed. “What’s wrong?”

“Everything,” I scoffed as I scanned the bathroom for something, anything, I could use as a weapon.

She followed my gaze and tilted her head. “Did you lose something?”

“No, I think I finally found something.” I was done being a pushover.

Queen Mira joined us, looking every bit the royal she was. Her dark hair was styled in an elegant French twist, and her makeup was perfect. A huge diamond necklace hung between her breasts, and her strapless tulle dress featured a diamond-beaded belt that contrasted with the royal purple color of the garment.

Her smile was breathtaking. “It’s time to head to the back door. Some warriors are waiting to escort us. It’s eleven forty-five.”

The time had arrived.

Panic clawed my insides, and my heart raced.Are you heading to the terrace?I hoped he’d forgotten to inform me and was already moving into place.

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