Chapter 59

CHAPTER FIFTY-NINE

Ryker

I glanced back at the giant; I wasn't sure a dragon could get through him, but I was in the mood to beat the shit out of something. "Yes."

With a sigh, Ellery rose and wiped her hands on her pants. I held her shoulder for a moment longer before prying my hand away.

When I recalled our earlier exchange, I felt a sharp pang of regret. So many things had passed between us and torn us apart, and most of it had been her doing, but she'd been right to be irate with me tonight.

Yes, she'd messed up in the past, but she was working to stand against my father and the others. And as much as a part of me constantly whispered that I couldn't trust her, a bigger part believed she'd told me everything and there wouldn't be any more lies.

As far as you know.

I shoved my niggling doubt away. I had a right to have it after everything that transpired between us, but she'd revealed things that could shatter her life.

She'd handed me the keys to her destruction, but they would remain safe in my hands. I'd taken out my rage at my father on her earlier, and now I could take it out on this guy. He deserved it more.

When the small breeze blew a stray strand of hair across her face, I resisted the urge to tuck it behind her ear and brush the lovely curve of her cheek. At one time, I wouldn't have hesitated to do so.

"What's it going to be?" the giant taunted. "Pay up, go through me, or retreat?"

I tore my attention away from Ellery and back to the giant with the amazingly strong staff. "I don't retreat."

"How much money do you have?"

"None for you."

The giant beamed as he stopped leaning against his staff and rose to his full height. "I guess you're going to be the dumbass who tries coming through me then."

"I'm going to be the one who puts you on your ass."

Ellery released a low groan that wouldn't carry over the running water. "There's no need for this."

"But there is."

I studied the woods, searching for any sign of more of this man's followers amongst the trees. I couldn't have some of them sneaking up on Ellery while I was engaged with this phenomenon.

I didn't see anyone out there, but I had to be sure. "Do you sense anyone on this side of the river?"

Ellery looked around before shaking her head. "No one."

"Good. If anyone tries to sneak up on you, shout for me or torch their asses."

"And reveal what I can do?"

"I'll take care of anyone who sees it."

Her eyes shot across the river toward the teens. "That's not going to happen."

"Do whatever it takes to protect you . I'll handle the rest."

"Ryker—"

I gently clasped her chin and turned her attention back to me. My gaze involuntarily fell to her mouth and those tempting lips before I met her troubled eyes again. "Protect yourself. I will do the rest."

She nodded, but I knew she'd hesitate. I wouldn't kill those kids, but I'd find a way to ensure they kept their mouths shut.

I released her chin and turned back to study the tree bridge. It didn't look slippery, but my boots would do a good job gripping it.

"No using your ability, lightning bearer," the giant said.

"You know who I am?"