At first, Angela thought she was alone in the bed. A moment later, she sensed him beside her. He was asleep, an arm casually thrown over her stomach. He held the fabric of her shirt between his fingers.

She shifted closer. He pulled her against him, cradling her to his chest. His fingers moved to her hair, sinking into the strands. She fell asleep again, comforted by his arms around her.

When she woke up again, he still held her, but he was also awake.

“Did you sleep okay?” he asked.

She nodded.

“Good,” he said. “I’m glad to hear it. You seemed very tired last night.”

“I haven’t flown for some time,” she said. “It’s been about two years.”

“You haven’t found a safe area?”

“Yeah.”

He kissed her forehead.

“I called someone last night,” he said, “to reinforce the estate’s security. They know nothing about last night or that you’re a shadow dragon. Perhaps in a few days, you’ll be able to fly without a problem.”

“Really?” she said.

“Yes. They’ll be here tomorrow. Is there anything you would like? Something that would make you feel safe flying?”

She considered.

“In my world,” she said, “I would have a private flying area.” She smiled. “A place where no one can see me fly. That way, I can be sure I’m safe.”

“I believe that can be arranged,” Oliver said. “The estate is big enough accommodate it.”

“I didn’t–“

“I know. You didn’t imply it. I’m offering, however. I would like you to feel as safe here as everyone else does. You have that right.”

“I’m surprised you haven’t asked me why I never told you.”

He was silent for a moment.

“Due to the nature of my job,” he said, “I understand your decision not to tell me.”

“What?” she said.

“I work with Gifted and other magical beings. My job is to relocate them to safer places or negotiate safety in their current location if possible.”

Oh. This entire time, she could have…

“I’m not sure if you’re aware,” he said, “but the majority of the population of Libsia is comprised of shadow dragons. I usually warn them if someone like the man from last night might be here.”

“It explains why the streets were empty,” she said.

He nodded, smiling.

“Everything will be back to normal today,” he said.

---

The message popped up on her screen as she was getting ready for bed.

Oliver: Come to my study. I need to talk to you.

A minute later, she knocked on his door.

“Come in,” he said.

She entered and sat across from him.

“Is everything okay?” she said.

He nodded.

“I have a proposal for you,” he said. “It should provide you with safety.”

Okay.

“Would you be interested in marrying me?” he said.

She blinked. She never imagined a romantic proposal, but…

“I need a duchess,” he said. “I spend little time at home. No one can question your decisions if you’re the duchess. Also, the title would provide you the safety that you need.”

She considered for a moment.

“Are you sure?” she said.

“Yes,” he said. “I’d like to help you.”

She nodded.

“Okay,” she said.

They talked about the wedding details and eventually decided to have a private ceremony.

“We’ll announce it later,” he said.

The next day, a man placed a barrier around the estate. A very large area was made invisible. That night, they went to the temple and the priestess married them. The announcement was made hours later.

---

Did you enjoy today’s chapter? Let me know in the comments. Feedback is also welcome.

I’m currently posting a first draft of a story. However, if you’re interested in seeing what my final products look like, check out my debut, Daughter of Death. It’s available in many retailers, including Apple, Barnes & Noble, and Kobo in eBook and audiobook formats. It’s also available in my shop.

I’ll leave you for now. Make sure to come back for the next chapter.