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They smiled at each other for another second before they walked down the aisle to the dais. Gregor barely noticed his friends and family in the seats. He was about to be mated for a second time.
Not that long ago, he would’ve doubted his decision or feared for his new mate’s life. However, Cassidy had wormed her way into his heart and knocked some sense into him as well. So far, everything was perfectly normal about her pregnancy and she had promised to be careful as it progressed.
Because of her encouragement, he looked forward to his future with his mate and child. He’d never forget his first mate, but he knew she’d want him to be happy.
After ascending the stairs, Gregor and Cassidy moved to the center of the dais, where there was a box open on top of the table. Inside were their silver engraved mating bands.
They faced one another with clasped hands and the bagpipe music died down. The room fell silent and Gregor cleared his throat. Projecting his voice, he said, “I never thought I would be lucky enough to find a second chance. Between walling up my emotions and dedicating my life to practicing medicine, I was determined to be alone for the rest of my days. But then a no-nonsense female came into my life and try as I might, I couldn’t resist her strength. She had a will few could only imagine and her own inner battles to deal with. Yet despite all of that, she was determined to help me. Soon, we were helping each other and I knew she would steal my heart. And it wasn’t long before I fell in love with the clever, dedicated, and caring female in front of me. I imagine a future where we work together in all areas of life—from practicing medicine, to forcing each other to take a break, to even trying to outdo each other with ridiculous contests.”
A few people chuckled in the audience, but Gregor barely noticed. “I love you, Dr. Cassidy Jackson. Would you do me the honor of accepting my claim and becoming my mate?” She nodded and joy raced through his body. Somehow he managed to pick up the silver arm cuff engraved with his name in the old dragon language and gently put it on the bicep of her tattoo-free arm.
Both man and beast liked seeing their name on their mate’s arm—Cassidy Jackson was theirs forever.
Cassidy stood tall as her voice boomed out. “To say I was a workaholic was an understatement. However, since I care deeply for my clan, I didn’t mind. I never expected to take a mate, let alone be a mother. I had long accepted that, but then one particular Scottish dragonman entered my life and I had a hard time forgetting him. He even came to help when I needed him most. He not only captured my heart, but my dragon’s as well. I wouldn’t be a whole dragonwoman today without Gregor Innes. I love that he works with me rather than try to take over my practice, and yet he isn’t afraid to tell me when I need to take a break. With him by my side, I enjoy life again. The thought of raising a child with him is one of my greatest gifts.”
A few people cooed in the audience, and Cassidy continued, “I love you, Dr. Gregor Innes. Will you accept my claim and become my mate?”
“Of course I do, love.”
Smiling, Cassidy slid the silver band engraved with her name in the old dragon language around his bicep. The second she was done, he pulled her close and kissed her. While he may not be the first male to do so, he would be the last one. He was never letting his doctor go.
~~~
Sid’s heart thundered in her ears as she slipped the mating band around Gregor’s bicep. She had no regrets, but standing in front of the clan was testing her nerves more than she would’ve thought.
However, as Gregor’s lips touched hers and he gently nibbled her bottom lip, her heart slowed. The crowd faded. Gregor Innes had her full attention.
As he pulled her closer to his body, she calmed even further. She didn’t think twice of his hand roaming down her back until he lightly cupped her arse cheek. She broke the kiss to whisper, “Stop it.”
He winked. “I couldn’t help it. I needed something to tide me over until later.”
Unable to resist a smile, she murmured, “Just don’t do the same thing in front of our leaders or your niece.”
At the mention of Gregor’s niece, Fiona, he nodded. “We should probably face the crowd again and make the rounds. The sooner we do, the sooner I can whisk you away.”
“Don’t even think of carrying me out of the great hall.”
He winked. “It’s hard to sneak when carrying another person. You’re safe this time.”
She snorted and her dragon spoke up. He always makes things fun.
Don’t encourage him too much.
Before her beast could reply, she and Gregor turned toward everyone gathered in the hall and cheers rose up.
Everything else was a blur as they descended the stairs and were instantly accosted by Bram and Finn. Finn spoke up first. “Glad to see you made it through without Sid running away.”
Gregor grunted. “A ‘congrats’ would’ve sufficed.”
Finn punched his arm. “Congratulations is boring.” He moved his gaze to Sid. “Although I will say congratulations to the lady.” He lowered his voice. “And keep watch over our doctor, okay? He needs to learn to loosen up every once in a while.”
She smiled. “Considering his fancy for scarfs and naked statues, I think he knows how to relax.”
Finn grinned at Gregor. “Oh, aye? This is the first I heard of it.”
Bram jumped in. “Given your penchant for teasing, I’m surprised anyone shares embarrassing things with you at all.”
Finn motioned toward Bram. “Don’t worry, Bram. I’m still working on you. Not that Arabella is any help in that department.”
