Page 56 of The Dragon's Gambit

“I couldn’t possibly treat my mate like that, Chels. But a lesson needed to be learned nonetheless.” Reiya linked arms with Chelsie as they followed Reese to the kitchen.

“After this, I think I could use a nap,” Reiya said thoughtfully. What she was really thinking was maybe Reese would leave them alone for a nap. Then she could talk to Chelsie and Brody. It wasn’t urgent, but she felt a strong desire to explain what she needed from them, seeking clarity on where they would stand. She didn’t want to pressure them into joining her on a potentially perilous journey, but she wanted them to fully grasp the potential risks and dangers. There was significant risk, but it also promised an equally significant reward.

“You’ll need to use Xander's room on the main floor for that so that I can stand guard. The upper tower is restricted, so I can’t go up. And after what happened earlier, I’m determined not to let anything happen to you.”

Well, so much for that. Reese shot that idea down pretty quickly.

Brody was inhaling the food around him. He’d always told them that the reason he could eat so much was because he was a bear. Honestly, Reiya thought that was just an excuse.

“Should we put the kitchen table on your plate, too?” Chelsie looked at him with a raised brow.

“Depends what’s on it.” Brody smirked and took another bite out of his sandwich. Chelsie took in a sharp breath from his comment. It was unexpected to her, but she understood the meaning behind it.

Yes, there was definitely some subtle flirting going on between the fighting. Reiya was sure of it. Most guardians never took a mate, since they solely focused on their job of protecting their charge. Jealousy often played a role, and it rarely worked out. This was a special case, though. Chelsie was already aware of how things worked with guardians. Plus, she was just as protective and possessive over her. The two of them might actually be a really good match, if they decided to give it a chance. She wouldn’t push either way, but she would support them and be happy for them if they did decide to be together.

“Are you still wanting to take that nap, Reiya?” Reese asked, noticing that she’d finished eating.

The nap was originally an excuse to ditch him, but now, she did feel a bit drained. Laying down didn’t sound like a terrible idea. Plus, it would help pass the time.

“Yes, I think I could use some quiet time.”

“If you’re going to take a nap, then I’m going to head home real quick. There are a couple things that I forgot, and I want to get a couple of my favorite snacks.” Chelsie hopped up to her feet.

“So, I’m getting left all alone? I’m not really feeling the nap thing.” Brody frowned. “But I don’t mind reading a book and watching you rest.”

“You want to stay in the same room as her while she sleeps?” Reese asked with a bit of hesitation.

“Yeah, I’m her guardian and her brother. Is that a problem?” Brody felt a bit agitated from the hesitation in his voice.

“It’s just that ... I would have to allow you in my lord’s chambers, and ...”

Reiya understood. He would need permission for that. “On second thought, nix the nap. I can rest later. Maybe I should walk around and get to know some of the other dragons better.”

“In that case, I’ll wait to head home. I can’t trust these men to watch you properly. No, I know I’ll do a better job keeping you safe,” Chelsie said in her usual snotty voice.

Brody smirked and stood up. “There’s no way you’re a better protector than me, swamp horse. But you can say whatever you like if it makes you feel better.”

“Let’s not start the arguing already.” Reiya quickly shot down the gripe fest that was coming. “Actually, I think I’d better leave you two behind. I don’t need you both making things worse while I’m trying to work on relations.”

“Aww, Reiya, no. I’m coming with—” Brody started, but Reiya shook her head.

“No, I’m pretty sure it isn’t a good idea. Not with your temper and her attitude. I won’t be long. You two stay here.” Reiya was certain the two of them would make it harder for her to win the dragons over. She wouldn’t be long. She just wanted to try to ease some of the tension that was filling her.

“Stay close to me. Some of the dragons are not completely receptive of you right now.” Reese seemed a bit uneasy, but he was not one to deny her request. His job was simply to protect her. That was it.

Reiya looked around the big hall that still had a small crowd gathered, hoping to catch a glimpse of Lee, but he was nowhere to be found. She was sure that he and Xander were dealing with more political garbage. She also didn’t see Ruby and Mason around, which practically confirmed that theory.

“So, this is the fairy that has the King of the West breaking protocol,” a deep voice sounded from the side. Reiya looked up to see a very large, well-built man walking up to her.

“It isn’t fairy. It’s Reiya. Unless you want me to just call you dragon.” Reiya gave him a sassy smile, which the man laughed loudly at.

“Weston. You, my dear, can call me Weston.” He extended his hand out to Reiya, who shook it gently.

“I was beginning to think that I must be a terrifying creature. Most of your kind seem afraid to speak with me.” Reiya looked around the room at the others, who looked apprehensive being around her.

“We usually don’t associate much with other kinds. They’re considered lower than us.”

Reiya internally scoffed. She knew she shouldn’t, but she had a bit of bite in her tone as she answered him. “Well, I’m sure that makes them feel better about themselves. It’s easier to believe your species is superior when they’re never allowed to associate with those who actually are.”