We emerged from the woods, and I still held my mate in my arms. She had relaxed and passed out, trusting me despite the fear and uncertainty in her eyes. Even though I had insisted I didn't want a mate, I now realized how untrue that was.
I mind-linked one of my many maids to prepare the front door. I didn't wait long, and as I moved swiftly through the house, I received curious glances from everyone around. What did they expect from a dragon lord carrying a sleeping woman? They were likely confused—or maybe even intrigued.
Instead of taking her back to the guest room, I made my way straight to my own. The task of unlocking the door with a simple flick of my fingers was harder than I'd anticipated, but I managed it, mentally congratulating myself. Gently, I laid her on the bed, covering her with a blanket as though I feared she might disappear if I took my eyes off her.
This woman—or girl, I had to remind myself—was far too young, only 15, wasn't she? My mind raced. She could be my queen. Life would be easier if she were older, but her age—did it even matter? I struggled internally, fighting against the intense urge to take her the way I truly wanted.
I needed to get control of myself before I ruined this delicate moment.
I walked away, heading for the kitchen, the weight of my thoughts pressing down on me. My thirst became unbearable, so I reached for water, running a hand through my hair in frustration.
Suddenly, a voice broke my concentration. "Oh, still up, I see. Found your mate, have you?"
I turned to see my second-in-command, wearing an amused smile.
"Drop it," I growled, walking away, hearing his soft chuckle behind me.
I had to figure this out—before I lost control and made a move on her I'd regret.
I headed back toward my bedroom, but the door was slightly ajar. I froze, feeling my body tense. Pushing the door open, I caught sight of a shadow hovering over her.
Isn't she beautiful? The gravelly voice whispered, sending chills through me.
"Who are you?" I growled, my voice low and dangerous.
"Calm down, child. I'm only ensuring destiny is being fulfilled," the voice responded, its tone eerily calm.
Don't play dumb, dragon lord. You know why so many are after her, it hissed.
"I do," I admitted, stepping closer. "But why are you here?"
The shadow took a step toward the bed. "I am her guide," it said in a soothing tone. "I fear destruction is near. She will not complete her task if things continue this way."
"What do you mean?" I asked, my heart sinking.
She's meant to die, it said flatly. Once she completes what's been set for her, she will return to the earth. But… that could change.
The shadow faded into the air, vanishing without a trace. My mind was reeling, panic setting in as I searched the room for answers.
I looked down at my mate, my heart shattering at the thought of her fate. She was so young. She didn't deserve this.
Tears welled in my eyes as I fell to my knees beside her, clutching her hand desperately. "I won't let you die. I swear it," I whispered to the empty room, the promise leaving my lips as my only hope.
Whatever it took, I wouldn't let her fate be sealed.