Page 54 of Marked Dragon

Elliott wrung his hands together. “Let me get this straight. Drake is a dragon prince who wants to screw both my sisters, and we’re hiding from him to ensure that it doesn’t happen?”

I nodded and leaned into Thorn’s side, needing his support depending on how my brother reacted.

Eyes bulging, Elliott beamed. “That’sbadass. Dude. I should’ve playedSpyrowhen it came out on the PS. I could’ve prepped on how to fight dragons!”

I rolled my eyes. Everything led back to video games with him.

Eva chuckled. “Really? Badass? Not what I was going for, but I was Drake’s prisoner when I found out. But I’m sure our daily battles inDemon’s Soulswill suit us just as well.”

Peter’s attention homed in on me. Disbelief poured from him, but I didn’t give a damn. He’d soon learn we weren’t lying.

“I’ll take my chances.” Peter lifted his chin, though he moved his head slowly. “Release me, before I call the cops.”

“How will you do that?” Thorn bared his teeth. “I took your phone, but you should already know that.”

Peter harrumphed. “When I don’t show up to work tomorrow, people will search for me. If you let me out now, I’ll blame it onher.” He pointed at me.

Lovely. He was willing to let his own stepdaughter go to jail without batting an eye.

“That’s a risk every single one of us is willing to take.” Vlad nodded to the door.

He wanted us to leave, and I was more than willing.

Cassidy walked out the door first and paused at the frame. “I’ll bring you some dinner, but it’s best if you stay in here.”

“What?” Peter hissed. “You’re going to lock me alone in here where I can’t watch over my own kids?”

Now he was playing the doting parent?

“It’s fine. Elliott and I can stay in here with him.” Eva gestured to the door and flicked her gaze to me. “I’m tired anyway, after the crazy afternoon.”

“But the game!” Elliott pouted. When Eva gave him a look, he exhaled and said, “Can wait ’til morning.”

I hated to leave them in here with Peter, but something told me Eva had her own agenda. I followed Vlad out the door but paused and said over my shoulder, “If you need anything, just holler. I’ll hear.” Then I continued without looking back, not wanting to see Peter again.

Thorn shut the door behind us and locked it. “Dad, here.” He reached around me to give Vlad the key. “Everly needs to rest after everything that happened today. I’m going to put her to bed.”

His father smiled. “That sounds like a good plan. We won’t be too far behind you. My wounds are healing, but rest will speed up the process. Cassidy and Saphira were already talking about sleeping arrangements, so we can take it from here.”

After learning why Peter resented Mom and me and everything in between, the day had caught up to me. I hadn’t gotten back to Thorn a moment too soon because I wasn’t sure I could’ve gotten through this alone.

Thorn placed a hand on the middle of my back, guiding me to our bedroom. “Oh, and Everly,” Vlad called out. “Welcome to the family. I look forward to spending more time with you when we’re all better rested.”

At his sincerity, the pain swirling through me ebbed, and I smiled in return. “I look forward to the same and to being part of a family.”

As Vlad turned back to the living room, Thorn and I stepped into our bedroom. I crawled into bed as he shut the door and quickly joined me. I snuggled against his chest, listening to his breathing and heartbeat. There was no sound more beautiful.

My body thrummed from having his arms around me.

He kissed my forehead, his lips so warm and firm.Ev, get some sleep.

What happened to all the sex?I teased, but my eyes were shut and unable to open.

His chest shook with quiet laughter.Oh, it’ll happen, but we have tomorrow and every day after. I won’t lose you again. Rest now because you’ll need your stamina.

My cheeks hurt from smiling as I drifted off to sleep.

The smell of bacon, eggs, and pancakes hit my senses, and my eyes cracked open. The comforting jolt of Thorn still buzzed across my skin, and I glanced up to find him watching me.

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