Now, he and Emily would marry to make sure she was accepted as his queen, and his children would have a mother. All he had to do was remain in control of his dragon until then, escort Emily to a few official functions. Once she was established as queen, the executioner would provide his unique service and it would all be over. No more Ryker.
Now, everything had changed. He’d met Katy. There was no doubt she was his true mate. Ryker combed a hand through his hair. She was everything to him, had been from the moment he’d seen her in Discoteca Reale. She was everything to him, yet to her, he was nothing.
Ryker slammed a fist onto his desktop. The heavy wood splintered into dozens of smaller pieces. A long, particularly slender piece jammed into the fleshy part of his palm. He hissed at the sting and yanked the offending splinter out. Blood dripped from the wound onto his expensive slacks. In dragon form, his skin, his scales were nearly impenetrable. His human form, however, was extremely sensitive, just like a real human. He didn’t care about the pain, just turned back to stare out the windows again.
Nothing mattered now. He had finally found his true mate, and she was not interested in him. He gazed out at the ocean from the large wall of windows in his private study. His dragon had finally stopped shouting at him for being all kinds of fool. For once they were in complete agreement. He was a fool. Katy had just made it clear that what they’d shared the previous night meant nothing to her. She’d refused to even read the new contract.
His dragon wanted to show himself to Katy. Ryker couldn’t have that. Draquonir law forbade him from saying anything until she was fully committed to him. To tell her now would only result in her death.
A brief knock sounded at the door, followed by Vector and a tall figure dressed in black Elven armor, the color so deep Ryker felt slightly dizzy looking at it, as if he were falling into a black hole. A long black sword, etched with ancient Elven symbols, hovered at the man’s back, held in place not by a scabbard, but by magic.
Ryker turned from the window to face his brother and their friend, a Dark Elf prince, now uncaring that the executioner himself had come early. Katy was gone. Nothing mattered now. “Elf.”
“Dragon.”
Ryker looked at his brother in askance, one brow arched.
Vector grinned and waved his hand at Prince Alrik. “Cheer up, Ryker. I’ve explained everything, and considering our friendship, and the fact that you may have found your true mate, Prince Alrik has agreed to postpone your execution so long as you remain in control of your dragon. You see, no one wants you to lose your mate or your life. So, the solution is simple, Brother. You must woo your woman the way a human man would woo the woman he wants more than life itself so that Alrik doesn’t have to kill you.”
“Woo her?” Ryker frowned in confusion. “She is my true mate. She either wants me or she does not. She walked away. Her refusal was clear. I need to tell her the truth. Tell her what I am, and let her decide once she knows everything.”
Vector shook his head. “Don’t be an ass. She is human, and she feels betrayed. I saw it on her face. Whatever happened between the two of you, she now believes it is all a lie. You must woo her. Trust me on this. You can’t break Draquonir law and tell her about us. You would put her life in danger. The law is absolute. It protects all Draquonir and the other magical races. It can’t be broken without consequences, not even by a king.””
“Then how does a human man woo a woman?” Ryker’s shoulders straightened. If there was a way to win her back, he would try anything.
“Wooing is simple. I do not know why human men have so much difficulty. Respect her. Listen to her. Pay attention to what she likes, and shower her with gifts. And if she lets you into her bed, make damn sure she never wants you to leave it. Got it?”
“Respect. Pleasure. Gifts. Pay attention.” Ryker nodded thoughtfully. “If this is wooing, then you are right. Every Draquonir male puts his mate first. Does all those things.”
“Exactly. So, get out there and convince her that you are the only dragon for her.”
Ryker gave a half smile, grateful he had Vector on his side. He would make a truly formidable enemy. “I assume you have a plan?”
Vector sniffed. “First, you smell like burnt charcoal. Best get cleaned up. Try wearing one of the Armani suits you have hanging in your closet but never wear. They look sharp.”
“My suit looks just fine.” Ryker stiffened, waved a hand, and changed his clothing. “See?”
Prince Alrik laughed. “Fine indeed, dragon, if you prefer the uptight, twenty years out-of-date look.”
Ryker’s lips quirked. “That’s rich, coming from an elf wearing tights under that armor.”
Ryker’s barb was met with deep, booming laughter. “No room for tights, dragon.”
Vector raised his hand, signaling for them to stop. “Idiots. You would think we were still schoolchildren. Stop bickering and listen. I sent Mist to convince Ryker’s mate she has to be at the helipad in an hour, ready for some shopping in the city.”
Ryker began to pace, his mind fully engaged in Vector’s plan. “Shopping is easy enough. But what about Emily? I cannot have Katy’s twin show up here while I am ‘wooing’ my mate. They do not know we are aware of the substitution, and I dare not tell them or Katy might use it as an excuse to run. It is the reason I said nothing last night, and will continue to say nothing until she trusts me enough to tell me the truth on her own. Vector, figure out where Emily is and keep her occupied until further notice.”
“Good idea,” Vector agreed, nodding thoughtfully. “I believe I know just the Draquonir for the job.”
Ryker turned to his old friend, his tone sober. “If my true mate does not accept me after this wooing, I welcome the executioner’s blade.”
Prince Alrik bowed low. “My blade is yours to command.”
8
Katy: where are you?
Katy: Em, this is serious.
Katy: damn it. answer me!
2:00 p.m.
* * *
Katy stared, her eyes big, round saucers. In the center of the helipad was the most advanced private helicopter she’d ever seen. Black and sleek, the chopper had a large three-blade rotor, and a smaller, partially covered rotor at the tail. Other than the door, she couldn’t see any bolts or hinges. The entire body was made from one large piece of metal rather than many smaller pieces that would have to be joined together. The landing gear was retractable like a jet, and the entire top was transparent. Anyone riding inside would have an amazing view. She was no expert, but if anyone were to ask her, she would have said it belonged in a sci-fi movie.
She didn’t need to hear Ryker’s deep voice to know he’d come up behind her. His intoxicating scent surrounded her like a warm blanket in a storm before he ever said a word. There was something wild, untamed about it that sent her libido into overdrive. Still, she refused to give in to her body’s weakness. Her desire. Instead, she squared her shoulders and proceeded to ignore him. He’s Emily’s problem now. He lied. Tried to manipulate Emily and the contract. Don’t let his sexy voice or his bedroom eyes ever fool you again.
“It’s the first of its kind outside of the prototype models we tested last year. Have you ever ridden in a helicopter?” He shoved his hands deep into the pockets of his perfectly tailored slacks.
Finally, she turned to face him. “I was told to be here, so I’m here,” she said with a fake smile, torn between pretending to be her carefree sister and still angry with Ryker. Angry with herself. “What now?”
When Ryker didn’t respond, she looked back over her shoulder toward the helicopter. She could look at anything but him. She was conflicted and didn’t much care if he knew. She’d signed Emily’s contract. The original, so she could breathe easy about that part at least, but last night was different. Last night was personal. She bit her lip, racked with guilt.
“There are many things I want, Mia Regina. For now, I would like to take you on an outing.”
As they stood
there, the blades on the helicopter began to rotate. The gentle breeze created by the spinning rotors became a roaring wind. Katy’s braid was unrecognizable, loosened hair whipping in the wind. She braced herself against the miniature cyclone created by the rotors, one leg pushed back, her head and upper body bent slightly forward.
She squeezed her eyes shut just as Ryker took her small hand in his much larger one and pulled her into the shelter of his arms. She fit perfectly under one shoulder. Together they ran to the helicopter, the door held open by the pilot.
The interior surprised Katy as much as the exterior. Pure luxury. Four seats, two on each side, with drink consoles in between, made the inside look more like the interior of a limousine than a helicopter. Katy sat gingerly; afraid she would scuff the beautiful, buttery soft white leather.
Before she could buckle, Ryker took the belt, his strong hands grazing her skin as he adjusted the strap. One knuckle brushed the side of her breast. Katy hissed, her body reacting to the accidental touch. His hand froze. She looked into Ryker’s face, her eyes captured by his hungry gaze.
Katy’s nose flared. Breathe. “Are you trying to seduce me again?”
“Would that be such a bad thing?” he murmured huskily. “I won’t pretend I don’t want you.”
Katy wrapped her hand loosely over his wrist and pushed his hand gently away. She had to remember she was supposed to be Emily. She had no idea what their relationship was supposed to be like and had no idea how to proceed. She couldn’t betray her sister again. Remember the twin-swapping rules. Don’t say anything about Emily that isn’t true.
“Please, Ryker, I’ve been working in Alaska for weeks. I know it sounds crazy, especially after last night, but it feels like I just met you. Like we don’t really know each other anymore. I just need a little time. In a few days I’m sure I’ll be my old self again. Besides, I’m still a little irritated that you tried to change the contract at the last minute. I really hate surprises if I’m not the one orchestrating them.”
Ryker nodded, then eased into the seat next to Katy and buckled, He smiled slowly, unaware of how boyish and charming he looked. “You are right, Mia Regina. I should not have tried to change the contract without consulting you first. I betrayed your trust, and for that I am very sorry. It is, indeed, like we hardly know each other. I propose we start over. We can treat today as if this is our first date. Take things slowly. You can get to know me. Learn to trust me again. Would that suit you better?”
“I…” She paused, not knowing how to answer. Had he just handed her the perfect solution? “And no sex?”
He laughed, leaned forward in his seat, and said with a wink, “I can resist if you can.”
Katy let out the breath she hadn’t known she’d been holding. “Then yes, that would suit me just fine.”
The pilot finished the preflight check, and they rose into the air. Ryker grinned, his eyes full of male satisfaction.
The helicopter flew low over the water, close to the cliffs. The view was spectacular. She could see miles of coastline. Down below a pod of bottlenose dolphins jumped and frolicked in the blue waves. She covered her mouth with her hand, her eyes glued to the scene. She’d always wanted to see real dolphins. What an unexpected gift.
“I see you have spotted our bottlenose dolphins. They are amazing creatures. If you would like, I will arrange a diving trip from the yacht tomorrow or snorkeling if you prefer.”
She turned back to Ryker, her eyes misty. Their eyes met. Held.
Oh dear, what have I just gotten myself into?
9
Katy: are you dead? WHERE ARE YOU?
Katy: i can’t keep doing this.
Katy: EMILY??????
* * *
Versace. Gucci. Louis Vuitton. Cavalli. Prada. Katy looked from one label to the next, tried to keep her mouth from hanging open. The boutique screamed wealth. Power. Exclusivity. She never would have come into a place like this. The salespeople would have taken one look at her department-store clothes and turned her away. Ryker, however, insisted.
The flight from the palazzo lasted just over an hour. As soon as they landed, Ryker took her hand in his and hadn’t let go, insisting that couples on first dates often held hands. She’d given a token protest, but really, how could she argue with his logic? And now, as a very uptight saleswoman approached, she was suddenly glad he hadn’t let go. He must have sensed her agitation because he gave her hand a reassuring squeeze.
The saleswoman glanced at Katy, dismissed her, then turned to Ryker. She looked at the cut and style of his suit, practically drooled, and smiled. “What can I do for you today, signore?”
Ryker reached into his pocket and pulled out a business card. He handed it to her casually as he looked around. “I’ve never been here, but my brother recommended you. You will need to close your boutique. We require privacy.”
The woman looked down at the card and gasped. Her hand trembled as she looked up again. “Of course, Signore Draquonir.” She motioned for another associate to close and lock the doors. “Please, follow me to our private viewing room.”
Katy had no choice but to follow the saleswoman into an opulent room with a long runway and one extra-long sofa, glass end tables on both ends, and one large coffee table behind the sofa. The entire room was muted with whites, grays, and tans.
She sat on the far end of the sofa. Ryker could have chosen the opposite end but instead sat right up next to her, his thigh rubbing against hers. He pulled her hand over his leg and started playing with her fingers, testing the strength of her freshly painted nails.
Another saleswoman walked toward them. Katy leaned into Ryker and whispered in his ear, “What are we doing here?”
Ryker lifted her hand and placed a kiss on her knuckle. “We are shopping.”
Choking, she managed to squeak, “This is not how I shop. I can’t afford anything in here.”
Before Ryker could respond, yet another saleswoman arrived, followed by a train of associates, each holding either food or refreshments, which they placed on the long table, ready to serve them. “Signore Draquonir, I am the senior manager here. We are thrilled to have you in our store today. May we offer you a cool beverage, or perhaps a light lunch?”
Ryker turned to Katy. “What would you like, Mia Regina?”
Stammering as all eyes centered on her, she said the first thing that came to mind. “Well, I would adore a hot cup of Earl Grey tea, and perhaps a bit of fruit, if they have it?”
“And for you, signore?” asked the manager. “What can we do for you today?”
“Il mia amore requires a new wardrobe. We would like to see your entire spring collection. Once you complete her fitting she will make her selections.”
Katy coughed. Choked on her tea. Her hand trembled as she set the cup on the table. Mia amore? Did he just call her his love?
“Of course, signore. Accessories as well?”
Ryker smiled. “Everything.”
The manager put her hand to her throat, her eyes sparkling. “Excellent. And your price point?”
“We have no limit. Call my assistant. The number is on the card I gave your associate. He will set up the account.”
The manager nodded and turned to Katy for the first time. “Please, signorina, take your time. When you have finished, follow Signorina Abbiati to the fitting rooms,” she said, her hands twisting. “We have many wonderful items for you to select from. This may take several hours.”
Katy jumped up, her heart pounding a mile a minute. She could do this. She could pretend to be Emily and get her twin some amazing clothes. They were exactly the same size. So what if it felt like this was all about her? She just needed to keep reminding herself that this wasn’t about her. It was about Emily… Emily, Emily. Emily. “I’m ready.”
Following Signorina Abbiati to another room, she quickly undressed down to her bra and panties. She was measured and remeasured. Everything got measured, even the length of her instep, the size of her fingers,
wrists, arms.
Two of the ladies had been whispering nonstop since they’d come in. Every once in a while she would catch the word Draquonir. Were they talking about Ryker?
Finally Katy could take no more. “I’m right here, ladies.”
“Scusi, signorina, we do not mean to be so rude. It is that we have many famous people come here, but the Draquonir are most notable. Our manager will get a big promotion if you are happy with us today.”
Katy frowned. “Really? Why?”
Signorina Abbiati dropped the measuring tape and walked over to a small table on the side, returning with two magazines. On the cover of both were Ryker and his brother, Vector.
Katy took the magazines and stared. “I’m sorry. I can’t read Italian. Can you translate this for me please?”
“Si, signorina. It says, ‘Italy’s Most Eligible Bachelors’ on this one, and the other is a business article about the Draquonir empire. They are Italy’s oldest and richest family. They have billions, and have recently announced plans to expand into new markets. Whatever they do, others follow.”
Katy blushed. “Oh. I see.”
Signorina Abbiati shook her head. “No. No. I do not think you understand. You see, Signore Draquonir has many female admirers, but he has never taken a serious interest in one until you, signorina. We are very excited for you. And for us.”
“For you?”
“Si, signorina. Your connection to the head of the Draquonir family will generate much interest in our boutique. Your choices here today will influence spring and summer trends in all of Italy.”
“Oh my God.” Her legs gave out, and she sank to the floor. “I can’t do this.”
“Oh no!” Signorina Abbiati cried out to her assistant, “Go! Get Signore Draquonir. Quickly!”
“There is no need,” Ryker snapped, pushing the door open and scooping Katy protectively into his arms. “I am already here.”
Katy smiled weakly and wrapped her arm around his broad shoulders, oddly glad to see him. “I’m fine. Really. Just a momentary shock was all. You can put me down.”
Dragon Chains Page 6