*Saoirse*

“I am pleased that you have returned,” Axureon said, crossing the space between him and us.

I felt Rhys stiffen by my side, and his hand quickly found mine as the dragon shifter approached. I tried not to quake beneath Axureon’s intense gaze as his golden eyes flashed with what looked like relief.

“I knew you would,” he said in an airy voice. “You are extremely vital, as I’m sure you are well aware of by now.”

I didn’t know ...