Page 35 of The Missing Sentinel

“You may take your apology and keep it forever. I do not want it.”

“But you do want me?”

“Desperately, but our friendship is of equal importance to me.”

“Your words so often soothe me,” Drexley confessed as he gave Ducarius a little squeeze. Thankfully, his erection was abating despite his desire to spend the rest of the day in Ducarius’s arms. But Ducarius was right. Every aspect of their relationship mattered. “I enjoy our growing bond but hope discovering what you look like outside of your uniform is not too far off.”

“Do not despair. We will explore each other thoroughly and soon.”

“Good, I look forward to learning about this underwear you mentioned.”

“I like the way your mustache and goatee feel on my skin as we kiss.”

“Oh, I did not think about that. I hope it was not too scratchy.”

“I have zero complaints about kissing you, Drexley.”

Drexley smiled as Ducarius sealed his words with another brush of their lips. “I believe you.”

“Wonderful. Now, let go of me so my dick will settle down.”

Although Drexley was reluctant to give up being pressed against Ducarius, he chuckled and took a step back. Ducarius reached out and laced their fingers again.

“Should we continue our walk?” Ducarius asked.

“Only if you promise to give me another kiss before we go into the castle.”

“My mouth is yours whenever you want it.”

“That is nice of you, but I will require your tongue as well.”

“You are a fierce negotiator. However, I happily accept your terms.”

“Ducarius, I am so grateful Fate brought you here to me.”

The other sentinel bussed Drexley’s cheek, and he sighed happily. “I am honored Fate believes me worthy of you, Drexley.”

Overwhelmed and with his heart spilling over, Drexley could do nothing but offer a nod and a smile to Ducarius. So many aspects of Drexley’s life were soon to fall apart or change, but he suddenly had a matebond. One that had created a growing spark of joy inside him. Ducarius was a gift, and Drexley silently thanked Fate for him.

Chapter 17

Lounging constantly in a library was not something Ducarius would have believed he’d enjoy, but he was gaining a richer love of reading thanks to Drexley’s fantastic taste in novels. Ducarius glanced up as an old spell of Adney’s lit the candles around the castle. But tonight, not every wick sprang to life. Ducarius’s attention was drawn to Drexley as the ancient necromancer cursed loudly.

“It would be easier for me to die instantly than to endure this forsaken draining of my power,” Adney declared loudly.

“There remains plenty of light,” Drexley replied.

“Help me get this blasted blanket off,” Adney ordered. “I wish to retire for the night.”

Ducarius closed his book as Drexley hustled over to aid Adney. The necromancer made it to his feet and swatted at Drexley.

“Some things I can still do by myself,” Adney groused. Then he bowed his head and scowled at Drexley. “Go fetch one of the skeletons to help me undress.”

With a nod, Drexley scooted out of the library, and Adney made it a few steps. To Ducarius’s surprise, the necromancer stopped in front of him and their eyes met. There was nothing friendly in Adney’s gray gaze.

“Your presence here is dangerous.”

“For whom?” Ducarius asked.