As they approached Killian and Brenna, Lorcan wrapped an arm around Killian's shoulders and forced him to walk. "Come, son. Your mother wants everyone together."
"She's not going to take a family photo again, is she?" Killian asked warily.
Caitlin jumped in. "Not this time. But once the weather turns better, I want one with all of us in our dragon forms."
Brenna grinned. "I think that's a brilliant idea. Maybe we could even use it as a promotional photo, to show how a family spanning three clans gets along."
Killian sighed. "I can already tell that protesting is going to fall on deaf ears."
Lorcan slapped Killian's shoulder. "You're still young, but you'll learn soon enough to pick your battles."
Killian grunted, but thankfully didn't argue. Her son and Lorcan had grudgingly learned to respect one another over the last few months. She suspected one day, they might even enjoy being in each other's company.
Ascending the stairs of the dais, Caitlin picked up her pace. Spotting her arrival, Teagan stood. As Caitlin held her daughter close, she said, "How're you feeling, darling?"
"I'm fine, Mam." Teagan released her. "No one's challenged me yet and I'm determined to keep my position even after the baby's born."
Aaron grunted. "Bloody too right you will."
Killian nodded. "Say the word, and I'll be back to defend your place."
Teagan rolled her eyes. "I'm fairly good at this clan leader thing." She smiled. "But if I need help, I'll be sure to ask for it."
As Aaron and Killian started planning what they wanted to do to any challengers, Caitlin merely smiled and leaned against Lorcan's chest. His arms went around her automatically and she was content to watch in silence, basking in the warmth and love of her mate.
Her years of worrying about looking after her children were gone. She'd raised two brilliant, fierce dragon-shifters, who now had their own responsibilities and mates to look after. Which meant she could spend the rest of her days spoiling grandchildren and traveling with her mate once he retired.
Caitlin had never thought she'd find a second chance at happiness with a male she loved. While her first mate, Kieran, would always hold a special place in her heart, she adored Lorcan, too. True mate or not, she loved him and looked forward to making many new memories in the future.
*~*~*~*