Page 40 of Dragon Me Through Space

“Sometimes,” he admitted, “but having my brothers with me helps abate that homesickness.”

It had to be nice to have friends with you while you journeyed. I was incredibly jealous of them for that alone.

“We really do just want to help you, you know? If you told us what it is that you’re looking for, we could help.”

“What are you looking for?” I asked back. “You guys keep avoiding answering me as well.”

“We’re looking for our mate,” he answered immediately.

My heart felt like it stopped and a leaden weight settled into my stomach. I set my sandwich down, no longer hungry. “I thought so.”

He tilted his head to the side as he looked at me. “We won’t abandon you if we find her before you find your item, or whatever it is that you’re looking for.”

A sad smile was all I could give in return to that statement. They would definitely abandon me once they found her.

“So, what do you like to do for fun?” I asked him instead of acknowledging his statement.

“I read or play chess.”

“Chess? The human game?” I asked.

He nodded. “Have you played?”

“My father taught me when I was little and made me play against him often,” I said and laughed softly. “I’m awful at it.”

“Would you like to play?”

“Okay,” I agreed, “as long you don’t tease me for being terrible.”

“The quickest way to get better at any game is by repeatedly playing, not being told you’re bad. Don’t worry, I will keep my comments to myself.” He hit a button on the arm of the captain’s chair and music started playing. It was soft, orchestral music that was incredibly relaxing.

“Scout, record,” I ordered.

Scout beeped in acknowledgement.

Preston walked to the side wall and opened a cupboard door I hadn’t noticed, pulling out a chess board. “This was my father’s,” he said and set it on the floor between us. “He also taught me and made me play often. One of the few times we enjoyed each other’s company.”

“Are you any good?” I asked.

He smiled smugly. “Yes.”

“I want white.” The white pieces always went first and it gave a slight advantage. I’d take any advantage I could get.

He dipped his head. “Very well.”

Turning the board, he put the white pieces in front of me and waved his hand to indicate I could start.

We played in companionable silence, the soft music and our pieces sliding across the wooden board the only sounds.

At least until he beat me after only five moves.

“What the crap!” I shouted. “How did you checkmate me in five moves?”

He chuckled. “Would you like to play again?”

“Yes!”

That time he beat me in four moves. Then eight. Then three.