Drakar's gaze softens into a look of reverence as Daela cuddles warmly against him, resuming her slumber without a care in the world.
To think only moments ago, he had been feral with panic. Searching every inch of their domain without finding his mate had left him nearly crazed, his dragon barely contained beneath his skin.
The fear of losing something precious is something he'd never felt this deeply—not since his sister died. But he had felt that powerful, chilling dread during those bleak hours today.
A part of him is still furious, and he has already made an internal vow: something like this will never happen again. Even if it meant keeping his mate under constant watch in their chamber, by the goddess, he would do so.
Drakar inhales deeply, his arm resting protectively over Daela's round belly, but sleep doesn't come.
