Page 29 of Finch

Before Finch set off in search of Hugh to inform him that the task was completed, he massaged

his temples. Blast this headache. It throbbed behind his forehead and irritated him like nothing

else. After he delivered the letter, he’d have to take something for it and have a soak in the tub

to relieve the tension it had caused. He—

A hand touched the crown of his head, and before Finch could startle, he was filled with utter

bliss. His headache disappeared, his muscles unkinked, and all was well with the world once

more. He sighed in appreciation.

“Better?” Hugh asked.

“Much, yes, sir. Thank you.” Trembling on the tip of his tongue was an unspoken, “Can I please

have some more?” Dragon magic was exhilarating, flowing through him like warm syrup,

coating all his raw nerve endings, relaxing his body, and taking away all discomfort and pain.

Except in one area.

Finch was grateful he sat at the desk, his lap and legs hidden from view, because he was now

sporting an uncomfortable erection. Hugh’s dragon magic did nothing to ease it and Finch

prayed it would subside soon so he might stand up without embarrassment.

“I was thinking,” Hugh said.

“Yes, sir?” Finch willed his erection to subside.

Hugh moved so he was beside Finch rather than behind him. He touched Finch’s chin and

tilted it up so that their eyes met. Hugh’s plum-colored eyes shone with excitement. “We should

have a ball.”

Finch had a difficult time following that. “A what?” His pulse was pounding in his throat. Could

Hugh feel it as well?

“A ball. Fancy dress, dancing, that sort of thing. We can bring all the candidates together at

one event. It’s ever so much more efficient than meeting them one at a time and hoping for the

best.”

Something constricted hard within Finch’s chest. “Ah… yes, sir. I suppose a ball might do.”

“I know it’s a lot of work for you and the staff, but we can bring on additional help. When do

you think you might have invitations ready to be mailed?”

“I… er… a few days, sir. Would you like to see your apology?”

Hugh practically bounced on his toes. “Oh, yes. Thank you, Finch. I’ve got no idea how I’d get

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