Cars drifted lazily past, headlights swarming the park but missing me entirely. I focused on my power and drew forth a cloak, a sort of ethereal armor that would keep humans from perceiving me. I couldn’t very well have some pesky human interrupting my journey.
I crouched low and then bounced from the ground, soaring high into the air with my wings flat on my back. I rose toward the heavens with a speed uncommon in other creatures, waiting for just the right moment to stretch my wings.
At just the right altitude, I spread my wings wide, catching the air and propelling myself forward with simple motions I had learned in youth. Flying was a mindless task as an adult, though I enjoyed it thoroughly, the task bringing me a sense of peace even as I knew I was approaching war.
She needs me, I reflected as I headed toward the estate. I spotted the road that wound through a thicket of trees, solar lamps illuminating the way. I sniffed the air, closing my eyes as I hooked onto her scent—honeysuckle in spring’s glorious bloom. I won’t let her down. I can’t let her down.
Every fiber of my being screamed for my mate. The scent of her alone was enough to drive me forward, wings beating the air relentlessly as my tail floated behind me. I was cloaked now, but if I could be seen, onlookers would be enraptured by the spectacle of my scales.
Born of fire and molded by liquid lava, my outer armor was that of a volcanic deity, hardened by years of pain, suffering, and hard labor. Becoming a doctor was the easiest thing I had ever done. But surviving the death of my parents and a foster system that didn’t care where I ended up? I would have preferred death.
But now, none of that seemed to matter. I was on my way to my bride. With the ring I bought and the promise of a new life, a better life, I knew I could easily win her over. She wouldn’t have to worry about her family’s expectations any longer. She would have me—and I prayed that would be enough for her.
The moment I reached her estate, I knew. I had been flying with my eyes closed, a little trick I had picked up as a teenager whenever I wanted to wander away from the orphanage. I knew this place like the back of my scaly paws as a result.
When I opened my eyes, I studied the wonder that was the Thornton Estate; its seven fountains, high hedges, twin mazes, and winding paths circling a grand mansion. Wealth made them comfortable, sure, but it wouldn’t protect them from my ire.
Scent drew me to Brianna’s balcony. I reduced my size as I descended, nearly fully transformed by the time I landed on the finely carved stone. The material was cool beneath my palm and greeted me with a comforting feeling, the kind of sensation I might have felt by returning to my childhood home.
That was Brianna. That was what she was to me—she was my home.