Aiding the Dragon (Stonefire Dragons 7)

“I believe in you, Teagan. Show the others what you’re truly capable of, even without a penis.”

She shook her head before rolling out of bed. “Considering how vulnerable it makes you lot, I’m not sure why it’s such an asset to have.”

Aaron grinned. “Males like having something to play with, so they come up with reasons as to why it’s so important.”

Snorting, she gathered up her clothes. “That sounds about right.” She sobered. “But I should get ready as quickly as possible. That means no sharing a shower today.”

He bobbed his head. “Good idea. Now, hurry up. Males also don’t like to be kept waiting. Remember that.”

She flipped him off before heading to the bathroom.

As she prepared for the most important day of her life, her thoughts kept returning to Aaron’s words. I love you, Teagan O’Shea, and you’re worth waiting for.

Her dragon huffed. You should’ve told him.

There’s too much to do, and I don’t want it to seem forced. I’ll tell him after my victory.

You had better. I’m growing impatient. I want the entire clan to keep their paws off him.

She mentally sighed. I’m fairly certain they already know.

Maybe, but until we declare it in front of the clan and show them we’re not going anywhere, I’m going to keep harping on about it to you.

Just save it until after the challenge is over, aye? We need to work together.

Her dragon grunted. In that, I agree. Let’s get ready and kick some arse.

~~~

Aaron stood at the edge of the rear landing area and watched as Faye MacKenzie’s blue dragon and Grant McFarland’s green dragon touched down. As soon as they were on solid ground, Grant spread his wings in front of Faye. When he lowered them, she stood in her human form, wearing a simple dress.

Grant shifted and soon stood naked next to her in his human form. Aaron approached them and said, “I’ve seen Faye shift before, McFarland.”

Faye rolled her eyes. “Don’t get him started. He tried to prevent me from coming at all, but that didn’t end well.”

Grant grunted. “You’re pregnant. You don’t need any unnecessary stress.”

“Me staying home and twiddling my thumbs is far more stressful,” she stated.

Grant frowned. “You only think it’s more stressful because you’ll be bored.”

Faye shook her head. “Let’s not have this argument again. We’re here, and that can’t be changed.” She looked to Aaron. “And I can’t wait to meet Teagan O’Shea. It’ll be nice to have another female ally in a male-dominated role.”

Aaron raised an eyebrow. “Nikki is a Protector, same as you.”

Nikki Gray was a young female Protector for Stonefire.

Faye waved a hand in dismissal. “And quite pregnant. Otherwise, I’d have invited her along for support. Nikki and I both have to deal with grumpy, overprotective males whilst still kicking arse.”

Grant sighed. “You do realize I’m standing right here?”

Faye patted his chest. “And I love you, overprotectiveness and all.” She looked back to Aaron. “Will we have a chance to meet Teagan b

efore the trials?”

Aaron shook his head. “No. She has to play clan leader and be civil to the bastards who think she’s weak first. The challenge will start in two hours. My job is to bring you to central command and fill you in on your duties.” He motioned with his head. “We should probably get going. Although I’d suggest Grant put on some clothes so the unattached females don’t throw themselves at him.” Aaron winked. “After all, non-Irish dragonmen are becoming popular here.”

Faye searched his gaze. “Yes, about that. Is it true about you shacking up with the leader?”