Glenlough was the clan in Ireland run by the female dragon-shifter, Teagan O'Shea.
Brenna continued before Honoria could say anything. "Technically, clans from the Republic of Ireland weren't allowed to help with all this. However, I'm originally from Stonefire, so it was a way in for my sister-in-law, too. Teagan, Bram, and Finn all want to strengthen bonds between the dragon clans in the future, and who ends up leading Skyhunter is vital to all of that. So, that's why I'm here."
She sensed there was more of a story behind her explanation, but they finally reached back to where Honoria and Fraser had started their search, and she pushed aside her curiosity. Honoria moved in front of Brenna. "Let me check first. If Asher is awake and sees an unfamiliar face, he may attack you."
Brenna studied her a second before nodding. "Okay. But I'll be right behind you."
The doctor finally caught up to them, but Honoria felt around the wall until she found the latch for the secret door. She slowly opened it until she could see into the room. Asher sat up on the table, his head barely off his chest.
He was alive.
"Asher!" She pushed the door open and ran to his side. His eyes found hers and the pain she saw there twisted her heart. "Ssh, I have a doctor. He'll be able to help you."
Dr. Innes moved next to her and started checking Asher's wounds. Honoria took a step back, but Asher reached out a hand and grabbed hers. His voice was low as he said, "Don't leave me, Ria."
"Never, Asher. I'll never leave you."
And while some may think it was just the intensity of the situation making her say anything, Honoria meant it. They may be older and different people, but she loved him as much—if not more—than when she'd been a teenager.
The only question was whether they would still have a chance at ruling together, or if Asher's injuries crippled him and he would no longer be considered.
Her beast growled. Don't think like that. The doctor is here. We did all the coordinators asked, and more. The other dragon leaders at least should realize that.
Honoria still had her doubts, but she managed to hide it from her dragon. Instead, she kept Asher's hand in hers the whole time the doctor helped him, letting Asher know how much she cared for him with her eyes.
What she wouldn't give for some time alone with her dragonman. However, she had a feeling that would be a long time coming.
Chapter Ten
It was days before Asher was both awake and alone with Honoria. The bloody Scottish doctor kept running tests, barring visitors most of the time, and had even kept Asher unconscious for an entire day so his body could heal faster.
And what snippets he had seen of Honoria had always been in the company of others. Which meant he still hadn't had the chance to haul her close—pain be damned—and kiss her like there was no tomorrow.
Except they'd agreed to no public displays of affection and he wouldn't break his word. However, if he could get a bloody minute alone with her, maybe he could renegotiate. That would satisfy his randy beast, always banging out about their female.
Not that he didn't want Honoria, too. But his human side understood Skyhunter's dire straits. For all he knew, there may not be a Skyhunter to live on in the near future. And he wanted one, even if he didn't end up leading it. More than anything, he wanted to settle down with Honoria and make a fresh start.
Asher must've not kept that thought private, and his dragon grunted. She should be ours. I don't understand why you keep coming up with ways to delay it. Even if we can't claim her with our cock, we could do it with kissing or words.
He could toe the line and say it was more important to talk with the other clan leaders and the DDA. They still hadn't found out what would happen to Skyhunter since no one had bothered to let him or anyone else know yet.
However, he burned to talk with his female.
Yes, his. After lying there, barely remaining conscious as Honoria talked with him back in the tunnel, he'd admitted to himself how he loved her again, far more than when he’d been a teenager. And as his vision had swum and faded to black, his last thought had been that he'd never be able to tell her the truth.
He replied, I do want to claim her, but there's a time and place, dragon. We're not about to die. We have time.
His dragon grunted. I don't understand your human way of thinking. Regardless, she should be here by now. If Ria doesn't come soon, we won't get any time alone with her. Again.
Her text saying she would be here only came a few minutes ago.
The door opened, silencing both man and beast.
Honoria had her hair pulled up, showing off her graceful neck and a jaw Asher wanted to nibble. The tight top highlighted her curves, as did the jeans slung low on her hips.
What he wouldn't give to get her out of those clothes.
She smiled at him and walked up to his bed. "You're awake and not scowling. That's a good start."