Dragon Protectors

by Kristin D. Van Risseghem

  “All right, before we go to wherever we’re going, I need to stop at the bank and pull out funds.” I make room on the bed and sit. “Where are we going, anyway?”

  “We’ll head over to Europe since their Prides are older. Staten is meeting us at LaGuardia Airport, and Bronx will meet us in London.”

  “Why aren’t we all going together?”

  “Precautions, just in case we are followed. Once we get to London, we’ll take a train, circle back, rent a car, and if we need to fly out again, we can.”

  That makes sense. It’s like they’ve done this before. Me? This is my first time going on a covert operation and kinda on the run. I’m glad my boys will be there to protect me. I feel with my few days of training with McQueen, I’ve come a long way with techniques in my human and dragon forms.

  We haul our luggage from the rooms and wait in the foyer of the house. Danzel called three different car rental places to have them all waiting here at the same time. McQueen’s parents will be milling outside when we load into the various vehicles. We’re each taking one on a different route and meeting at the airport.

  I remind the boys that I’m stopping at the bank since I don’t want to draw funds out at the airport. It’s just another way to track us. Thanking his parents for allowing me to stay with them these past few days, I give my bag to the driver. I watch him load it into the trunk and can’t help but think that maybe I forgot to pack something.

  Manny is in the first vehicle, and McQueen takes the second. I hug each of my boys.

  “I know it’s only a few minutes, but I miss you guys already,” I say. “Be careful and be safe.” Giving them one more hug, we part.

  “Don’t worry, Brooklyn,” Manny says. “Everything will be just fine. You’ll be right behind us. I’ll see you at the gate.” He tugs me forward and kisses my lips, then steps back much too soon. “You’ll be right behind us.” He nods and climbs into the vehicle.

  My face heats as I remember that McQueen’s parents are standing out here with us.

  “Be careful, Brooklyn,” Danzel says. “Listen to the boys, or I should say, listen to Staten.” He hugs me and then so does Eliza, then they head back inside the house.

  Leaving me with McQueen. Do I kiss him? I know he won’t initiate it. But if something happens to us between here and getting to the airport, I’d never forgive myself. The current between us sparks, and my body automatically closes the distance. He’s smirking at me. Maybe he knows this time I’m not bluffing. But something inside me, perhaps it’s my dragon, tells me I can’t let him walk away from me without showing him what he means to me.

  “So, Babe, I should get going,” he says. “You’ll already be fifteen minutes behind us, and in case you run into anything and need to keep circling around blocks, to lose any tails, you’ll be even later.”

  He is going to keep this all business and make me break first. Fine.

  I step closer. “Thank you for training me this week. I’m glad that you’re able to come with us.” I place my palm on his chest. Even through his clothes, I can feel his heart beating. It’s a steady rhythm but fast.

  “You’re welcome, Brooklyn.” He takes a step back.

  I step closer. “Yeah, so I’ll see you in a bit.”

  He glances at me, then at my lips. Oh, boroughs, this is just stupid. I grab his shirt and pull him toward me. Our lips collide. I part his with my tongue. He opens and lets me in. My teeth hit his tongue ring. His hand caresses my face, keeping me locked against his mouth. My fingers dart into his soft hair. His other hand roams down my back.

  Heat builds between us. I think my dragon even growls. Or maybe that’s me. But he, or his beast, answers my call. Our tongues still dance with each other as his hands explore my body.

  A dog’s bark from down the street finally gets us to break apart.

  “Does this mean I can kiss you whenever now?” McQueen asks. “Because if that’s still a no, then, Babe, you’re going to be the death of me.”

  THE CAR RIDE TO THE bank is short and uneventful. It gives me plenty of time to evaluate my actions, and what it means for me kissing McQueen like that. Sure, I like him. Under his brazen attitude, he really is a nice guy. And yes, I could see myself dating him. Would I give up Manny or Bronx or Staten? No. They are part of me, just as my arm is. There is no way that I’d even consider breaking up with either of them just to date McQueen. Besides, he is the one who pointed out that a woman these days doesn’t have to choose and can date multiple guys. Just like the Bachelorette.

  I stash the wad of cash into my purse. My magic flares, and it makes me think that I’m missing something. Did I forget to pack an item? We don’t know how long we’ll be gone and whatever it is, I may not be able to buy it where we’re going. Checking the time, I still have plenty of time to swing back to McQueen’s house and take one more look and then get to the airport. I know I told the guys I’d go to the bank and then directly to the airport, but I can’t stop this niggling feeling that I need to go back to my bedroom.

  I tap the driver before I can change my mind. “Could you swing me back to the house?” I ask. “I forgot something.”

  He nods, turning right on the next street and circling back toward the river.

  I check my purse one more time, confirming that my driver’s license, passport, and money are securely in my travel wallet. I have one credit card for emergencies since all of that can be tracked, but it might be needed for booking plane and car rentals. I’m pretty sure that bus and train stations take cash. And if we’re really in a crunch, we can use our thumbs.

  A flash of light takes my attention away from checking my belongings. I lean my head on the window and look to where I thought the flash was. I don’t see anything out of place. Turning around, I check the back window for anything in the sky. I don’t realize I’m looking for drones until the driver says something.

  “I didn’t think people could have those blasted things hovering so low toward the ground,” he says. “Every day, I see more and more of them. They’re becoming a menace.”

  I duck down in hopes that they haven’t seen me.

  What are they doing out now? And who’s controlling them? It’s almost like they are getting the lay of the land. None of them emit any laser, like last night’s ones. But that doesn’t mean they can’t. Nor does it mean these are the same ones. The ones at night could be constructed for night flying, where these have a different purpose.

  It doesn’t take long before the car is parked outside McQueen’s house. Even though his parents keep saying that this is my house, I feel awkward walking right into it. So instead, I decide to ring the front doorbell.

  Eliza opens the door. “Oh, Brooklyn. Did you forget something?” she asks.

  “Yeah, I think I did, so I just need to run and grab it.” I brush past her as she glides out of my way and run down the stairs into my room. Quickly, my eyes dart around.

  Then they land on the blue jewelry boxes. My magic pulses to life again, and it draws me toward them. What would I need my jewelry for on a mission like this? Should I bring them?

  I turn my back and walk toward the closet, but my flames appear on my fingers. That’s never happened before. I look down at the tips, and they burn bright green. The flames flicker back toward the dresser, as if a wind is coaxing them to draw me down the path.

  Standing in front of the boxes, I lift my hands and the fire extinguishes. Okay, if I’m supposed to bring them with, then I better.

  To save space in my small purse, I remove each piece from its container and combine them into the necklace box. I swing the shoulder strap across my body and secure my most precious items.

  The airport is loud and bustling with travelers. I easily slip into a crowd and follow them to the security checkpoint. The wait isn’t too long since I have TSA Pre-Check on my boarding pass, and then I go and find my gate, wheeling my small suitcase behind me.

  I opted not to take any of the pieces from the Louis Vuitton set,
so I woudn’t draw attention to myself. Instead, it’s a black roller bag that I borrowed from McQueen.

  I easily spot three of my boys standing near the window, their backs turned to me, giving me ample time to admire their backsides. Oh, and yes, their broad shoulders and tapered waists.

  As if they know I’m watching them, they turn as one. Each acknowledges me in their own way. Manny waves, walking in my direction. Staten nods his hello and follows Manny. McQueen just grins and stays where he is. He knows eventually I’ll make my way to him, smug bastard that he is.

  Manny reaches me first. “How was your ride over?” he asks. “Uneventful like all of ours was?” He places a light kiss on my cheek. I’m sure that the people around us think that he and I are the couple.

  Staten doesn’t try to show me any physical affection. I don’t expect him to, though. Plus, I don’t want to make it awkward for him, now that we’re out in public.

  “No one was trailing us, if that’s what you mean,” I say. “But my driver said that he’s been seeing more drones out, and they’re flying lower than they’re supposed to.” We walk toward the window where McQueen is leaning against it, watching us. “He didn’t know anything else about it. Didn’t seem to really care but said that they are a nuisance.”

  “Hey, Babe.” McQueen takes my bag and leans in for a kiss. There are too many people waiting at the gate, and I’m sure that none of them saw Manny kiss me earlier. Normally, I would have blushed about it. But that’s a thing of the past. “My parents texted and said you stopped at the house. Did you forget something?”

  “Yeah, but it’s all good now.” I pat my purse. “Has anyone been in contact with Bronx? He knows where we’re going?”

  “Yes,” Manny says. “Staten told him yesterday and again this morning. He’s meeting us at the London Eye. It’s a tourist trap and should have lots of people.”

  I nod. “And has a spectacular view of the city and the Thames River.” I lower my voice. “What’s the plan once we get there, and Bronx is with us? I just hate this not knowing where we’re going.”

  Staten comes to stand in front of me, forming a tight circle with our bodies, blocking the view from everyone. “We’ll take the train to Holyhead and then catch the ferry to Dublin,” he says. “We haven’t pre-booked anything, so we’ll use cash along the way. Once we get to Ireland, we’ll grab a couple of cabs and travel to Phoenix Park. We’ll take a look around the area, but I’m sure we’ll have to come back later at night when the dragons are out. Dad also said that the Farmleigh House is used for their Pride, but we can’t just walk in. We need to be invited to stay there. Until that happens, we’ll be staying at the Phoenix Park Hotel.”

  I nod. That sounds like a good start. I point to the chairs and the circle breaks, allowing me through.

  After taking a few steps, my stomach cramps, and I almost keel over. Luckily, Staten is right there and snatches my elbow, preventing me from doing a face plant. I hold my arms around my waist to comfort the off-putting feeling. My magic flares, but I squash that almost immediately. I’m not fast enough though; I can see Staten’s come to life, too.

  Then my side hurts. My hand splays on my ribs. Pain shoots up the right side of my body. I’m bending over in Staten’s strong arms. He’s trying to usher me to the chairs without calling more attention to us. Eventually, he picks me up and sets me down after someone sees us and moves.

  “What’s wrong?” Staten asks. “You’re pale. You don’t look so hot.” His brothers give him a slap on the head. “What was that for?”

  “Move over lady charmer,” McQueen says. “Babe, tell me what hurts. What are you feeling?”

  I can barely get any words out. My mouth is dry and gritty. Muscles I didn’t know I had scream at me, even though I’m just sitting here. “I don’t know what’s wrong.” I exhale. “It’s like it’s me but not me. I don’t know how to explain it.”

  “Is she okay?” A voice I’ve never heard asks. I’m staring at a pair of navy women’s shoes. I tilt my eyes up. A gate checker stands in front of me. “Are you okay, Miss?” she asks again.

  I lift my head up and straighten in the chair. The last thing we need is for me to go to the hospital or the airport medical facility. “Yeah, I’m fine. I just ... think I ate something that didn’t agree with me.”

  “All right. Take it easy.” She points over my left shoulder. “The women’s restrooms are that way. Maybe one of these guys can help you.”

  I nod. “Thank you.” I watch her walk away and return to the podium. “I don’t really need to go, so you guys can stop thinking about who should take me.”

  “Seriously, though, Brooklyn,” Manny says. “What’s wrong?”

  “I honestly don’t know, but right now, I feel like myself again. Nothing hurts. Could it be because of ...” I flick my fingers to show them my magic, so I don’t have to say the words.

  “I guess it could be,” Staten says. “We’ll keep an eye on you, but you tell us if you feel that way again.”

  An announcement comes on and informs the waiting passengers that Flight 0424 will be boarding soon.

  “I think I will go to the restroom and freshen up before we get on the plane.” Manny stands, but I wave him away. “I can go by myself. But thank you.” I kiss him on the lips and then depart.

  I walk toward the bathroom, thinking cold water on my face will wash away the horrible lingering feeling. I turn the faucet on. My reflection is terrible looking. Pulling out a brush, I run it through my long hair and then apply a bit of eyeliner and shadow. Lastly, I glide lip gloss on my lips and pucker. It’s the best that I can do with the small amount of makeup I packed with me.

  My fingers brush along the jewelry box. I hesitate. I brought them with, made a special trip back to the house for them. I should wear them. Poking the earrings through the hole in my lobes, I turn my head from side to side. They dangle to my chin and make a small clanking sound. Then I clasp the necklace around my neck. Slipping the ring onto my right hand, I spread my fingers to watch the gems sparkle. Finally, I add the bracelet.

  I think that all of the boys will appreciate seeing them on me.

  It’s been a long time since I’ve flown on a commercial airline. I’m glad I don’t have to sit next to strangers. Once we all board the plane, I’m sandwiched between Manny and McQueen. Staten is sitting across the aisle from us. No one said anything about my added jewelry, probably because my hair is covering it. I pull my earbuds out and settle in for the long flight.

  I catch Staten gazing at me. He taps his ear and smiles. I return his smile and mouth, “thank you.” He adjusts his position and closes his eyes.

  Manny looks at his Staten, then to me. He takes my hand and holds it. I lean into him and relax. He flips my wrist to look at the ring, then his eyes raise to the base of my neck. A smile stretches across his face.

  McQueen pats my knee, then pulls out a couple of magazines from his backpack and starts flipping through the pages.

  As far as international flights go, it isn’t too bad. After listening to music most of the way, napping and chatting with Manny and McQueen, the seven-hour long flight passes in a flash. Before long, we are disembarking the plane with our luggage in tow.

  The airport is just as busy as LaGuardia as we snake our way to the street level to grab some taxis to take us to the London Eye, where Bronx is meeting us.

  My stomach churns the closer we get to the gigantic Ferris wheel overlooking the Thames River. At first I brush it off as nerves from the flight and the impending mission of finding another Pride Leader. But as we make our final approach over the Waterloo Bridge, I realize it has to be something else.

  I watch Staten check his phone again. He’s not worried, nor has he said that he is. I don’t even know if he, or if any of the boys, has tried to mentally contact their brother. Catching Staten’s eyes, I tilt my head in question. Without verbalizing it, he knows what I’m asking and shakes his head.

  Manny squeezes my hand
, a reassuring gesture.

  “We have some time to kill before Bronx’s flight arrives,” Staten says. “If you guys are up to it, we can take in some sights.”

  I’ve been to London on many occasions, but each time there is something new I see or a place I’ve never been to. We decide to hang around the area. “How about visiting the London Dungeon?” I ask. “Then we can go to the Aquarium. If there’s more time, the Florence Nightingale Museum is nearby, too.”

  “Sounds good to me, Babe. We’ve never been to this city before. Manny, have you?”

  “Nope. Never had the chance to go abroad.”

  “Okay,” I say. “A zoo is a zoo, so perhaps we can skip that. I think you guys might enjoy the Imperial War Museum instead. It’s farther away but still doable to walk there.”

  We pay cash for the hour-long tour around the grounds and inside the dungeons. The boys are fascinated with the history and, of course, the weapons like a real guillotine. I know from their expressions that they’ll love the weapons museum.

  Since it’s a beautiful early evening and it took us seven hours during the day to get here, we opt to take the sidewalks and walk to the next tourist trap.

  Of course, as soon as the double cannons sitting in front of the building come into view, I can feel the excitement emitting from the boys. Again, we pay cash and walk around the building on a self-guided tour, taking in various vehicles used over the centuries: artillery weapons, fighter planes, and boats.

  The boys walk around like kids in a toy store, wanting to touch everything. Of course, there aren’t too many things that can be, since most historical items are kept behind plexiglass or suspended in the air.

  Staten checks the time again. It’s been three hours since we landed, and we should get back to the rendezvous point.

  My head spins, and I lose my balance again. McQueen is there this time to help me. “What’s wrong?” he asks. “Is this like what happened at the airport?”