More than he liked to admit, Gregor wanted to say “our child” again.
Cassidy’s reply garnered his attention. “While there’s no guarantee, Tristan thinks even my dragon would want to protect a child.” She paused and then added, “I’m not trying to pressure you, Gregor. I know how much you fear childbirth. I just wanted to reciprocate your honesty.”
His thumb stroked the back of her hand again. “I’ll never help with a pregnancy and be at ease, but my fear has lessened around you, lass. And if it’s your only chance at sanity, I’ll do whatever it takes. The more time we have, the greater the chance we can find a way to calm your dragon.” He lowered his voice. “While the frenzy may be part of it, I think part of your dragon’s increased hysteria is a result of the attack. I still haven’t identified the substance that must’ve seeped into your body.”
“Have you talked with Trahern about that?”
He blinked. “I just freely admitted I’m open to the frenzy and you’re concerned about Trahern Lewis?”
Cassidy rolled her eyes. “He has a strong background in biochemistry. It’s one of the reasons I picked him.”
“We can talk about bloody Trahern Lewis later. Just tell me if you want me to let the frenzy run its course if your dragon becomes out of control again. After all, it could happen in a few hours, once she finally wakes up.”
His dragon hissed. You could be nicer about it.
Right, because you’ve been patient this entire time.
Cassidy’s voice filled the room. “I don’t want you to do it out of honor or obligation, Gregor. You deserve better.”
With a growl, Gregor released her hand and cupped her cheeks. “It’s not out of a sense of honor, woman. I care about you and meant what I said earlier about actually envisioning a future with you. That hasn’t happened since Bridget. I want the chance to know you better, Doctor. Because I think we’d be bloody brilliant together.”
“Gregor,” Sid’s voice cracked.
“I hear a whisper of doubt in your voice, lass. Tell me why.”
“I—” Sid swallowed and continued, “Have you considered the fact it could all go wrong? You’ve suffered so much sadness in your life. You shouldn’t have any more.”
“And that right there is why I want to try. You always think of others, Cassidy. Isn’t it time to let someone think of you, too?” He leaned closer. “What do you truly want? Tell me.”
She leaned into one of his hands. “I always thought I would spend my life alone. I dedicated my life to the clan and taking care of them. They all became my children in a way. But now…”
“Now what?”
She searched his eyes. “I’ve allowed the possibility of becoming a true mother into my head and I can’t seem to chase it out again. I keep thinking I’m weak for not being able to push aside my own desires.”
“Stop being bloody ridiculous. It’s okay to want something for yourself, Cassidy. The only question is whether you’re ready to fight for your future? Because if you think I’m going to throw up my hands and walk away a few months from now, you’d be dead wrong. Once I make a decision, I stick with it. And if we go through the frenzy, I’m going to be growly, protective, and bloody unreasonable at times. But I will protect you with my life and do whatever it takes to ensure my future and yours are one and the same.”
“How can you be so certain? You barely know me.”
“I know you well enough. You’re strong, dedicated, stubborn, and clever. You will be my equal in all ways.”
She smiled. “Well, except in the penis department.”
He laughed. “Okay, there will be a few differences. I’d much rather enjoy your breasts than grow my own.”
Cassidy sighed. “You think you’re so clever.”
“Aye, lass, I am. And witty, as well as sarcastic. Get used to it.” He moved until his lips were a whisper away from hers. “Tell me what you want, Cassidy. I’ll make sure to be standing at the ready.”
She lightly swatted his chest. “Stop it.”
He grinned. “It’ll be mighty hard to complete the frenzy if I did.”
She snorted, and both man and beast loved the sound. But Cassidy still hadn’t given him an answer. He was about to ask again when Cassidy spoke. “If I can’t control my beast, then yes, I want to experience the frenzy with you.”
“Don’t sound too enthused about it.”
She rolled her eyes. “Really? You want me to wax on about your glorious penis and its ability to grow?”