Page 46 of The Dragons’ Eternal Mate

“You are blameless in all this mess.” I’d assumed that was the reason, but knowing for sure hurt, chiefly because the asshole who’d started all this was still out there. “And that one over there isn’t entirely to blame, either,” I said, jerking my head in Tanner’s direction.

I felt pretty safe, considering Bastian was standing between Tanner and me. I had no doubt that he would protect me if I needed it. Though I didn’t fear Tanner, since Cyrus had orchestrated all of this via threats and coercion.

“Please, let me examine you, so we can make sure you and the baby are okay.”

After a moment, Celia sagged in the chair, nodding. “All right. Truthfully, I’m miserable. I’d try anything at this point.”

“Is it predominantly nausea?”

Celia bobbed her head again, her hand going to her stomach. “Yes. But I feel bloated and achy, too. I’ll get heartburn for no reason, and when I can finally force myself to eat, I get sick like an hour later.”

“Okay, that’s definitely not good. But fortunately, there are some simple remedies we can try to help you keep food down. I have them in the clinic because I use them for every nauseated dragon, even kids. A little ginger and peppermint. Maybe some watercress. I’ll want to take a quick blood sample so I can check your nutrient levels.”

The relief that washed over Celia was palpable, and I offered my hand, letting her squeeze it.

“Oh God, that’s… Thank you, Rowan.”

“Are you staying here?” I asked softly.

“As much as possible. I know Tanner is in trouble, but…”

“Being away from your mate while pregnant is difficult, I totally understand. However, if you’re going to be staying here, I want a much better bed brought in.” As I spoke, I turned to Bastian.

“We can do that.” He nodded, expression neutral.

“Also, this place needs cleaning. I don’t care who you get to do it, but this place needs to be spotless. It’s in no state for a pregnant woman to be living in.”

Bastian looked around the dusty building. “That’s fair. We never expected a pregnant woman to be staying here. We’ll make it better,” he assured Celia.

She lowered her head. “Thank you, Alpha Bastian.”

My hand grabbed a plastic cup from the table. It was empty, so I turned it over in my hands for a second or two.

Then, without thinking about it too hard, I tossed it straight at Tanner’s head.

“Hey!” he complained, but there was no heat in it, as the cup was flimsy and did no damage.

“Sorry, just needed to get it out, you know? Damn. That felt good.” I smirked, turning back to Celia. “Now, either Nina or I will stop by later with some things to help reduce your nausea. I want you to rest and focus on eating. Allison has the kitchen in the den back up and running, under Ma’s watchful gaze, so I will also get someone to deliver your meals. You need to be eating well. And we’ll work on getting that blood sample.”

Celia looked between Tanner and me, then let out a long breath. “Whatever you say, Rowan. I trust you.”

Outside with Bastian once more, I considered the situation. It was obvious they both regretted what’d happened, and I was comfortable going so far as to say Tanner truly felt remorse. That was something I knew Cyrus didn’t feel.

So, I had an idea.

“You know, why don’t you put Tanner to work?” I asked as we walked back to the den.

“To work?”

I nodded. “You said yourself there’s so much that needs doing around the horde lands. He’s clearly not going to run. His pregnant mate is here. He could be useful. And I think it would be a good way for him to make amends. I think even he would say the same.”

“I’ll think about it,” Bastian grumbled, trying to hide the small smile that lifted the corner of his cheek.

“Thank you,” I whispered, reaching out to take his hand, “Alpha Bastian.”

Orsen

“Orsen.” I shifted, waking up at the sound of my name being whispered insistently.