Fated Mate

by Juniper Hart

“What if they’re right?” she asked.

  “They aren’t,” Nyle stated plainly.

  “You don’t know for sure,” Daisy insisted. “Because it feels like the odds are all stacked against us, Nyle. No one other than Evryn approves.”

  “That’s not true. My father did,” Nyle pressed. “I know you don’t understand our culture yet, but decrees are strict laws. They aren’t taken lightly. Even traditionalists will honor our union because they respect the ruling of a king.” His index finger traced her cheekbone. “I’d never let anyone hurt you, Daisy. Ever.”

  “That’s another problem,” she groaned. “I don’t want you to die because of me. I wouldn’t be able to live with myself.”

  “What are you saying? That if we get married, I’m going to die? Why would you think that?”

  “Because it’s a possibility, Nyle, and it terrifies me,” she explained, her eyes filling with tears.

  “Hey, hey, don’t cry,” Nyle cooed, bringing her into his chest.

  Nyle held Daisy as she wept. Tears rolled down her cheeks, her shoulders shaking as she cried. “Can’t we just stay here? Can’t we just give up the kingdom?”

  “I wish we could, baby,” he breathed out, his voice gripped with anguish. “I made a promise to my dad, though, and I don’t plan to break it. I know that this is a lot to ask of you, and it doesn’t seem fair, but I need you to trust me, okay? Put your trust in us, and know that no matter what happens, we will be together. We will be safe. Just bear with me a little while longer. If we aren’t going to stay king and queen, then I have to at least prepare the kingdom for a new ruler. If I abandon it, it will fall into anarchy and put my mother and sisters in danger. I can’t do that to my family. When things get settled, we can step down and spend the rest of our days here if that is what you want.”

  Daisy knew he was right. He had promised his father and knew just how much it meant to him. Maybe she was being ridiculous. Nobody had even threatened them. In fact, most people had treated her with respect since their return—except for his family. The entire palace staff were working diligently to ensure the wedding was a grand affair. Surely if they had a problem with it, she would be able to detect their reluctance, even if they didn’t verbalize their disapproval. Yet, they didn’t.

  When a couple of minutes went by and she hadn’t replied to him, Nyle moved her back from his chest and looked down at her.

  “I’ll be fully honest with you. As royalty, there is always a possibility of danger. I’m a high-priced target. Even if the kingdom were to fall to another Royal family, Elementals and even some Royals would be willing to hunt us down to make some kind of statement or to get revenge. You’re a target as well. Nobody has even known a dragon hybrid, and it’s possible that they might want you dead because of it. I just don’t want to live my life in fear. Do you? We need to stand strong and prove them wrong, as well as show them that together, we are a strong force. You will be an amazing ruler, and I would be unbelievably honored to call you my queen. Like you told my mother, I would rather love and cherish you for as long as I can, than to never have love at all.”

  Daisy melted at his words, knowing by the look in his eyes that he was as sincere as he could be. They really couldn’t escape danger altogether. His words managed to lift her spirits, feeling a glimmer of hope for the first time since it had all began. Maybe they would be great rulers.

  “You must think I’m such a mess,” she mumbled, hiding her face in his shoulder.

  Nyle forced her back to look her in the eye. “I don’t think that at all. You’re stronger than anyone else would have been in your situation. Honestly, I’m surprised you held to your sanity as long as you have.”

  She cracked a smile. “I have to admit, it’s been pretty tough at times.”

  “I bet so,” Nyle chuckled softly. “So, what do you say, will you come back with me?”

  Daisy nodded. “Do you think we can stay here until the wedding?”

  Nyle thought about it for a moment, but then nodded. “Yes, of course we can. It’s only a couple days. They can manage without me.”

  Relief washed over her, and she embraced him tightly.

  “I love you,” she said, her voice muffled by his warm chest.

  His hand ran down her back, “I love you too, Daisy Doll.”

  Nyle’s fingers then trailed down her spine, tingles left in the wake of his light touch. Her hand rubbed against his chest and slowly stroked down his stomach. His other hand brushed her hair behind her ear, exposing one side of her face. Leaning down, he kissed her cheek sweetly. A new energy dominated the air around them.

  Daisy lifted her head, peering up into his honey eyes. She leaned in then and kissed him feverishly. Nyle’s hands explored her body eagerly, taking in every dip and curve. Her hands were already on his pants button, unfastening them.

  In a sudden move, Nyle was on top of her. They never could keep their hands off one another when emotions ran high, and this moment was no exception. Their lips continued to move in a perfect rhythm, lust filling Daisy’s entire body. Every touch drove her senses wild, her body craving his. He pulled open her shirt, buttons flying in every direction.

  Daisy giggled against his lips, “Will there ever be a time you don’t ruin my clothes?” she asked.

  “I’ll buy you more,” he said, kissing her again as he pulled down the shorts she wore. As he peppered her collarbone with kisses, his hands reached around her back and unhooked her bra, leaving her in just her panties. Nyle trailed kisses down her torso, sucking and licking the spots he knew turned her on. She squirmed with anticipation as he made his way to her hips. He hooked a finger into one of the leg holes and pulled the fabric to the side.

  His warm, wet tongue dragged along her sex, making her entire body tremble. Nyle’s large hands massaged her thighs as he held them apart, continuing to lick her sex in slow, repetitive motions. When her pelvis bucked into him, Nyle pushed the tip of his tongue inside of her. Daisy gasped loudly, having to force herself not to squirm from the pleasure. He swirled his tongue and pushed it in as far as he could, grazing her swollen walls with precision. Her sex screamed for more, completely lost in the eroticism.

  When she whimpered from the teasing, Nyle withdrew his tongue and licked her lower lips lovingly, trailing up to her clit. He took it between his lips and sucked lightly, sending intense waves of pleasure rocking through her body. Already, she was starting to feel a climax approaching.

  “Nyle,” she moaned. “I want you.”

  He sucked harder on her sensitive bud, her hips continuing to wriggle at the sensations coursing through her. Her hands grasped at the bedsheets, ecstasy building exponentially. Just as she nearly peaked, Nyle pulled back from her and quickly turned her onto her stomach. Bringing her pelvis up into the air, he freed himself from his boxers and pushed into her. Daisy moaned loudly, her sex tightening around his member. She was completely lost in the pleasure, his member hitting her g-spot every time he thrust into her. Biting her lip hard, she quickly lost self-control and climaxed. Her breathing was ragged and her legs quivered.

  Nyle pulled out of her and moved to sit against the headboard. Before she realized exactly he was doing, he pulled her onto his lap and down onto his member. Her flesh was still sensitive and swollen from her orgasm, making it almost tickle to feel his skin against hers. Nyle guided her hips for her until she started to move them on her own. Rapidly, it became enjoyable again, her arousal heightened even more than before. She bounced her hips against his, occasionally swiveling when she reached his hilt. His hands fondled her chest, craning his head in and seizing one of her nipples.

  Her fingers gripped the roots of his hair, moaning as her body easily became overthrown by pleasure again.

  “My queen,” he whispered into her skin, glancing up at her.

  Her eyes locked onto his, a blush coming over her face. “My king,” she purred right back.

  Leaving her chest, his hands went to her bottom, pushing her dow
n faster on his member.

  “Say it again,” he whispered.

  Daisy cradled his face in her hands, letting her lips hover just above his while looking deep into his eyes. “My king.”

  Nyle closed the gap between them, capturing her lips with his, kissing her until she was breathless.

  He helped rock her hips into his rapidly, his nails lightly digging into the skin on her bottom. She called him her king in whispers against his lips again and again, sending him right over the edge. He peaked, moans and groans sounding from him liberally. Daisy cuddled into him, her arms wrapping around his neck.

  “You’re so perfect,” he said, still trying to catch his breath.

  “So are you,” Daisy smiled.

  12

  The next two days passed far too quickly. Nyle thought the break did them some good, though, as they were able to take some time for themselves in the midst of so much chaos. It was time to head back.

  They were back in New York the day before the wedding. It was a Royal tradition for the bride and groom to be separated, something he was fairly certain they had picked up from the humans somewhere down the line. He thought about ignoring it and flying in right before the wedding, but his mother had called him personally and asked him to come home.

  When they pulled up to the palace, he could almost physically feel Daisy’s anxiety. As they walked toward the door, he held her hand tightly. He didn’t really like the thought of being separated from her. Nyle hoped that everyone was on their best behavior and would let her enjoy the day before her wedding. He opened the front door to see a large group of people waiting in the foyer for them—men to the left, and women to the right.

  “So glad you both made it back safely,” Asalei called, her voice small and a little shaky.

  Even though it was clear she was still rattled and depressed, a grin brightened Nyle’s face. It was good to see her out of bed.

  “Come with us, Nyle,” Evryn spoke from the opposite side.

  Nyle’s eyes fell to Daisy. He gave her a hug and a kiss.

  “I’ll be in the palace all day. If something becomes too much for you, or someone upsets you, traditions be damned. Call me, and I will be by your side in a moment’s notice. Okay?”

  Daisy nodded. Reluctantly, Nyle moved away from her and joined Evryn’s side. He watched as Asalei and his youngest sister, Cecona, took Daisy by both hands. At least they were playing nice. Evryn then patted Nyle’s back, signaling for Nyle to walk with them. He shook his head and moved with the crowd.

  “Did you have a nice trip?” Evryn asked.

  “Too nice,” Nyle sighed.

  “Don’t fret, my boy. I know things may seem bleak, but you’re both doing the right thing. I can feel it,” Evryn assured him.

  “Thank you, Ev. I needed to hear that,” he said, smiling weakly. Nyle was confident in his relationship with Daisy and their ability to lead the kingdom. It was pleasing to hear someone else say it, though. “There aren’t going to be strippers, are there?” Nyle questioned playfully.

  “Oh now, Nyle. You know we hold the soulmate bond to be sacred. We wouldn’t insult you by flaunting temptations of the flesh in front of you. I’m rather offended that you would even think such a thing.”

  Nyle’s eyes narrowed at the old man, getting the vibe that he was being facetious. They led him to one of the many ballrooms in the house. The doors opened, and Nyle took in the sight of a full bar, a handful of belly dancers, and the smell of ancient hashish. He looked to Evryn with a raised brow.

  “What? They aren’t strippers,” Evryn chuckled.

  He rolled his eyes but walked into the room anyway. He might as well let the others enjoy the sights while he tried to drink until they morphed into images of Daisy.

  Daisy and the Royal women were in a ballroom receiving spa treatments. At least this was one tradition that Daisy appreciated. She dressed in a luxurious robe and sat in a plush armchair while a woman gave her a manicure. It was relaxing, allowing Daisy to let her guard down slightly.

  “I’m sorry about what I said,” Asalei spoke suddenly from the chair next to her.

  Daisy glanced over to her and smiled weakly. “It’s okay. I know you meant well.”

  Asalei shook her head. “Those words should have never passed my lips. You were right. It’s better to have at least loved than to just run in the other direction. You, my dear, are a very, very brave woman. I don’t think I can imagine any other mortal handling things so easily.”

  “That’s what Nyle keeps telling me,” Daisy commented.

  “Well, he’s a wise boy then,” Asalei said, her smile turning genuine. “I suppose I should start calling him a man, shouldn’t I? He will be king as of tomorrow.”

  “I don’t think he minds,” Daisy laughed lightly. “He’s still your little boy. Especially considering how long dragons live.”

  “True,” Asalei said. “It really does feel like I was just holding him in my arms, rocking him to sleep. I hope that you’re able to experience the joy of being a mother someday.”

  Daisy relished in such a normal conversation, her heart swelling to know that his mother was accepting her. “Thank you for being so kind. It means more to me than I can put into words.”

  Asalei reached over and placed her hand on Daisy’s forearm. “How could a mother ever be upset with a woman bringing their son such happiness? The way he is with you, the way he acts around you… I’ve never seen him so content. Sure, he’s a protective jerk sometimes, but that will die down in time. Your bond is still new and overpowering.”

  Daisy’s expression turned quizzical. “You mean the bond will fade over time?”

  “No, no. Not like that. It’ll remain as strong as ever, just it’ll be less all-consuming,” Asalei explained. She let out a dreamy sigh. “When Thalydias and I met, he was going through a similar process that Nyle was subjected to before you two met. Meeting lots of Royal women, trying to find a queen. Only he wasn’t being forced into a marriage; he was already king at the time. He needed to have children soon, to add strength to his legacy. So, he met with women one by one, day in and day out. It was day five when I was called to the throne room. As soon as I entered the room, I felt that bond consume me, and I could see he felt it too. I walked over to him, my eyes gleaming, and a goofy smile on my face, and I asked him, ‘What do you want to name our first born?' He laughed that distinctive bellowing laugh and told me to have a seat in the queen’s throne. We sat together for hours that day, just trying to learn as much about each other as we could.”

  Tears were collecting in Asalei’s eyes. Daisy laid a hand over Asalei’s, being careful not to touch the wet nail polish. “That’s probably one of the sweetest stories I have ever heard.”

  “It was just like a movie,” Asalei laughed softly, a couple of tears beading down her cheeks. “I think Thalydias was hoping Nyle would have a similar experience. He hoped that one of those dates would turn into his soulmate. Fate had other plans, though.”

  “Would you two stop already?” Maylei griped from a few chairs down. “You’re making me sick.”

  “That’s no way to talk to the queens,” another voice called from the door.

  The room audibly gasped at the sight of the woman in the doorway. Asalei cried instantaneously. “Oh, Erasina, come here,” she called over.

  Erasina? The sister that had run away? Daisy watched with wide eyes as the tall, thin woman walked over to Asalei. All his sisters were gorgeous with long, pin-straight white hair, piercing gold eyes, and angular bone structure. They all looked somewhat similar, only slight differences and their age made them distinguishable from one another.

  Asalei stood from her chair and threw her arms around her daughter as soon as Erasina reached her. Erasina herself began to cry.

  “I’m so sorry I wasn’t here. I was so horrified at the thought of marrying a stranger. I let my selfishness get in the way of my family. I should have been here… I didn’t even get to say goodbye. I’m so foo
lish.”

  “Hush now with all that,” Asalei urged her, peeling back and holding her at arm’s length. “The important thing is that you’re here now. Now stop crying before you make me cry even more.” Asalei carefully blotted her eyes, making sure not to smudge her nails. “Your brother will be so happy to see you.”

  “You don’t think he will be mad?” she asked, her face carved with worry. “I’m the reason he had to come back and deal with all of this mess.”

  “Your father always said that Nyle was meant for the throne, sweet girl. This was just the universe’s master plan,” Asalei comforted her. “Come and join us. You must get to know Daisy; she is sweet as can be.”

  Erasina’s eyes fell on Daisy then, smiling nervously at her as she moved to sit on the other side of her.

  “People haven’t been giving you too much trouble, have they? Other than Maylei, that is. She’s just bitterly alone like the rest of us, and she’s bad at hiding it.”

  Daisy shook her head. “No, everyone here has been kind to me.” She didn’t want to point the finger at Maylei and cause even more tension.

  “Everyone here? Someone else giving you trouble, sweet pea?” Erasina asked as someone cleaned her nails.

  Daisy’s stomach flipped at the thought, trying to not allow herself to become overwhelmed by her own emotions. She definitely couldn’t say anything about Forrest, not knowing how they would react to her talking to any Elemental.

  “Just my mom… She liked Nyle for a long time, but I guess she thinks we are moving too quickly.”

  “Because you are,” Maylei chimed in.

  “Talk again, and I’ll throw you in with the men. I don’t think Nyle would take very kindly to how you are talking to his bride-to-be,” Erasina warned her little sister.

  “You think I’m afraid of him?” Maylei scoffed.

  “I know you should be,” Erasina warned. “I heard about the decree Daddy made. I don’t think he would hesitate to punish even you. If anything, you should be trying to get on Daisy’s sweet side instead of trying to alienate her.”