Page 13 of Dragon Flames
Either way, I would forever be out of Lord Gresky’s vile reach.
Chapter Four
ELIAS
“What the hell were you thinking?” I snarl at the young pup at my side as we head toward the stage. It’s all I can do not to rip into the lad for daring to lay claim to the woman.
I conveniently ignore the fact that I also stepped forward to claim the chit.
Something about Preston claiming the girl has my dragon roaring in challenge.
Mine.
Which is ridiculous.
Dragons only claim and mate with other dragons.
This female, whatever she might be, is dangerous. She managed to lure Preston into bidding for her, laying the perfect trap. Even more disturbing, she has somehow managed to call my dragon as well.
A dragon that hovers on the verge of insanity.
If anyone guesses how close I am to losing control of my beast, it would be open hunting season. And there are many people who would want the honor of being one who killed a dragon. Our dead bodies are worth a small fortune on the black market.
It is said that our scales are made of gold.
That they can be used in a potion to find true mates for other species.
It’s all a bunch of nonsense.
It doesn’t mean others won’t try to kill us whenever the opportunity presents itself.
Dragons are vicious, deadly creatures. It usually requires another dragon to take us down, and even then, it would be a miracle if we don’t both die during battle.
The scars along my back and leg burn at the harsh reminder.
Though many would like to believe it, dragons aren’t indestructible.
We can die.
Case in point is how few of us remain in existence.
And Preston has foolishly brought us to the attention of this wealthy, privileged group.
It is dangerous.
Risky.
But if he’s right, if she’s our mate…
I shake off the preposterous thought.
But a tiny seed of doubt—of hope—sparks in my chest at the possibility.
I focus on the woman standing alone on the stage. Despite the death stare she is giving the crowd, I see a tremor going through her even from the distance. The closer we get, the more concerned I become, and any annoyance over the turn of events vanishes under the need to soothe her fears.
A scowl darkens Preston’s face as he picks up on the same thing, and we both increase our pace. When Preston reaches out to touch her, I grab his arm.
And nearly swear out loud when scorching heat sears my hand.
