Page 110 of Edge of Darkness

Hudson spoke up from the back seat. “I’m sure Connie explained your reservations and where they come from.”

“Oh. Well damn, I hope I didn’t offend him,” Kit said, biting his lower lip.

“I seriously doubt that you did,” Connie said, checking traffic as he changed lanes. “Besides, he knows what Nox was capable of. Don’t forget, Austin is a patient of his too.”

“But if it makes you feel more secure, we can ask if Connie and I can sit in on the first session or two,” Hudson said. “At least that would give you a chance to spend some time around Frederick while also having someone with you.”

“Something else I want to mention,” Connie said. “I understand why Frederick freaks you out. But you have to know that he wouldn’t hurt you. Believe me when I tell you, he doesnotwant to become the enemy of the Fire Court.”

“Let me put it to you like this,” Hudson said. “Fire isn’t supposed to kill a vampire, but dragon fire is something completely different. It burns hotter than any natural flame on this planet.”

“That’s true,” Connie said.

“Not that I think Frederick would ever do anything to you, but if he did? I’ll burn him until there’s nothing left.”

Turning around, Kit gaped at Hudson.

“You need to understand, Kit, that you’re dating two dragons now. We’re possessive. Overprotective. And after having dinner tonight at Embers, the word is already getting out that you were with us,” Hudson said.

“Oh yeah,” Connie said, nodding his head. “Give it a few days, and it’ll be all over the paranormal community.”

“You’re ours,” Hudson said, staring at Kit. “And we takeverygood care of what’s ours.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE –CONNIE

CONNIE GLANCED at Kit even though he was driving. Thanks to the lights from oncoming vehicles, he saw the blush that crossed Kit’s face at Hudson’s words.

Good.

Maybe Kit was finally getting it. Anyone who messed with Kit would be dealing with two pissed-off dragons. Just like that human Hudson had followed to the restroom, for example.

Connie had heard the insults the human made about Kit’s clothing choices. If Hudson hadn’t taken care of it, Connie would’ve. The male was lucky Kithadn’theard what had been said.

Maybe later, when it was just them in bed, Hudson would tell him what went down in that bathroom. He loved when Hudson got all growly and snarly.

The rest of the drive was pretty quiet. Connie figured Kit was mentally preparing himself for what was coming up. Kit was still quiet as they parked and took the elevator to Frederick’s office.

Probably before Kit was ready, the three of them were sitting in a well-appointed office. They sat on a small couch, and there was a comfortable-looking chair next to it.

Kit stood when Dr. Frederick entered the room. Hudson and Connie instantly flanked Kit. It was pretty obvious to Connie they were protecting the human. It would be to any paranormal.

Connie wondered how Frederick would react when he saw the three of them together and if the good doctor would bring it up. He doubted it.

Frederick immediately went to Kit. Dr. King was a good-looking Black man with short black hair, dark brown eyes, and a well-groomed beard. His dark-gray suit fit him perfectly.

From what Connie had heard, Frederick had fought for civil rights in the 60s, and he’d marched with some very prominent figures from that time. He’d been beaten and gassed by police, and the story was that men in white robes had tried to murder Frederick.

Raven had shown up and slaughtered everybody there, then saved Frederick’s life by turning him. Connie eyed the scar Frederick still had around his throat from the rope used to hang him.

Hudson had told Connie once that whatever marks were on the body stayed after a turning. And humans had the nerve to call paranormals monsters.

Kit held out his hand, and Frederick shook it. “Hello Kit, I’m Dr. Frederick King. It’s nice to meet you.”

“Hello, Dr. King. Nice to meet you too,” Kit said, his voice trembling a bit. Connie wanted to wrap Kit up in a big hug. He was so proud that Kit was facing his fears to get the help he needed, even if it did scare him.

“Kit? Please, feel free to call me Frederick.” Frederick released Kit’s hand and faced Hudson and Connie. “Your Majesty.” Frederick bowed his head slightly to Hudson. “Sir Conrad. It’s good to see you.”

Out of the corner of his eye, Connie saw Kit jerk. The titles more than likely surprised Kit, which Connie understood. Although Hudson reeked of the power of an Ancient, he didn’t put on airs, nor did he demand to be treated as a royal.

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