Page 34 of Shifting the Flame

"So, this is the human who tamed our Alpha," she said, her tone inscrutable.

Before Danica could respond, Asher's arm tightened possessively around her waist. "This is the woman whoreminded me what it means to lead with heart, not just strength."

The older woman's expression softened. "Well done, child." She patted Danica's hand before melting back into the crowd.

Danica's mind raced as they continued their circuit. She'd been in Ectorius for barely three days. Known about being Asher's mate for just one day. The weight of it all – being thrust into this position as the Alpha's chosen partner – pressed on her shoulders.

Last night's passion still lingered in her body—the memory of Asher's mouth, his hands, the way he'd claimed her completely. In bed, everything made perfect sense. Their connection had been primal and undeniable.

"You look worried," Asher murmured, steering them toward a quieter corner where festival goers hadn't yet gathered.

"Not worried. Just..." Danica searched for the right words. "This is a lot. These people depend on you. And now they're looking at me like I'm part of the package."

"You are." His tone brooked no argument.

"But I'm just an event planner from New Orleans. What do I know about being part of a dragon clutch?" She adjusted the strap of her sundress, needing something to do with her hands. "I can organize a killer festival, but being someone an entire town looks to..."

Asher turned her to face him, his green eyes intense. "You're not just anything, Danica. You're extraordinary. And you don't have to figure it all out today."

His certainty was simultaneously comforting and overwhelming. If it had just been them – just Asher the man, not Asher the Alpha – this would feel simpler. Less like she was under a microscope.

"Right now," she said, squaring her shoulders, "I just need to make sure this festival runs smoothly. One task at a time."

A ghost of a smile touched his lips. "See? That's exactly why you belong here. You prioritize what matters."

Danica glanced at her watch, grateful for the distraction of practical matters. "The children's dragon dance demonstration starts in fifteen minutes. I should check that the costumes are ready."

"Always working." His thumb brushed over her bottom lip, sending a jolt of desire straight through her. "We'll continue this conversation later. Preferably with fewer clothes."

Before she could formulate a comeback, he dropped a quick, hot kiss on her lips that promised much more. Several nearby townspeople whistled and clapped.

"That's how an Alpha claims his mate," someone called out.

She felt heat rise in her cheeks but pushed her doubts aside. This wasn't the time for personal crises. She had a festival to run, and she'd make damn sure it was the best one Ectorius had ever seen.

Danica moved through the festival with the precision of a battlefield commander. Her clipboard served as both a shield and weapon as she checked off tasks and directed volunteers with efficient grace. The children's dragon dance demonstration was her next stop, where she found a dozen kids already eagerly pulling on elaborate scale-adorned costumes.

"Are the wings secure?" She knelt beside a small girl struggling with her costume's attachment. "Here, let me help you with that."

"They're supposed to move when I wiggle my shoulders," the child demonstrated, beaming when Danica adjusted the straps to allow proper movement.

"Perfect! Now you're a powerful dragon." Danica winked, earning a gap-toothed smile in return.

As she straightened, she felt Asher's presence before she saw him. A warm hand settled on her shoulder, his touch both possessive and gentle.

"Running the entire festival single-handedly?" His voice had that gravelly edge that made her stomach flip.

"Someone has to." She tapped her pen against the clipboard. "Don't you have important Alpha mayor things to do? Hands to shake? Babies to kiss?"

Asher's mouth quirked. "I'd rather be helping you."

"I've got this covered." She fought the flutter in her chest at his proximity. "These people came to spend time with you, not watch you follow me around."

"They came to enjoy the festival we created together." His broad shoulders blocked out the sun as he leaned closer. "And I want you to enjoy it too. Not just work through it."

Danica tilted her head to meet his gaze. "I'll enjoy it once I know everything's running smoothly."

"Stubborn woman." The rumble of playful affection in his voice sent a warmth through her.

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