Chapter 8

ANA

Ana followed Tilda out of the castle. The wind whipped her wings and carried the high-pitched chirp of a flying lizard. Gargoyles soared overhead and patrolled the parapets, their presence as heavy as the foreboding atmosphere. A shiver skittered down her spine, a stark contrast to the warmth of the sun on her skin.

Composed of a patchwork of gray stones, the keep was breathtaking. Gothic arches and intricate carvings whispered of a history she couldn't grasp, an alien beauty that tugged at her curiosity.

"Impressive, right?" Tilda asked, her voice full of awe and admiration. "And up ahead, there is someone I'm sure you will find even more impressive."

Tilda led her into a dappled garden, where Quinn just arrived. He stood like a statue sculpted from moonlight. His gaze met hers, sending a tremor through her that had nothing to do with the cool grass beneath her toes. He was perfect, a piece of artwork come to life. And he caused her stomach to flutter.

"You should close your mouth, Ma'am." The gnome snickered. Ana clamped her jaw shut, feeling the heat rise in her cheeks.

They approached him, and he planted a soft kiss on her cheek, leaving her breathless. "I do have a fondness for certain human customs." He smiled at her and then offered his hand. "Shall we fly, my lady?"

"Uh, do you mean actual flying?" She clutched her claws. The distant chirping of birds echoed through the fields.

"Of course I do. Is there a concern?" He dropped his hand.

"I can't fly. I was human not that long ago."

"Pity, the view is spectacular from above." He shrugged. "I can teach you, if you desire?"

Ana stared at him but shook her head. "I… I'm afraid of heights."

Tilda giggled behind her.

"No worries. We shall walk." He turned to Tilda. "Thank you for escorting her."

"My pleasure." She bowed. "If that is all, I'll be on my way."

Quinn nodded and guided Ana through his kingdom.

As they talked, his smile, each caress of his words, chipped at her resolve to escape. His casual touches ignited a fire within her, unsettling yet captivating. Yet, amidst the allure, a pang of longing gnawed at her—for her old life, the satisfaction of helping others. Not a displaced refugee but a respected physiotherapist.

They strolled past gnomes tending a vibrant garden. Quinn, with his prehensile tail, plucked a gnarled tuber and offered it to Ana. "For the oalnts." He gestured to the strange, rock-armored creatures grazing nearby.

The beasts' sturdy bodies were topped with heads with long beaks and some that sported impressive curved horns. A few of them were nimbly climbing a large pile of boulders, their cloven hooves finding purchase on the craggy surfaces with ease. Every now and then, a rhythmic clinking echoed through the air as their armored bodies scraped against the rocks, punctuated by the occasional loud snort that startled the nearby birds.

Cautiously, Ana accepted the vegetable, stepping closer. Suddenly, something collided with her backside, sending her tumbling forward with a startled yelp. It was a baby oalnt, its playful head-butt a surprise attack.

"I should have warned you, my lady." Quinn chuckled, grabbing the creature before it could strike again. "Don't turn your back on them," he warned, his voice husky. "Here, appease the little one with food."

Hesitantly, she scratched its rough hide as it munched on the root from her hand, its tongue rasping against her fingers. "Wild spirit, but gentle," Quinn said, his voice husky, the sound as captivating as his blue eyes.

Reaching an expansive orchard overflowing with exotic fruits, they stopped before a tree laden with purple, plum-like orbs. Using a talon on his leathery wing, Quinn severed a stem from high above. The plucked fruit landed securely in his grasp. He offered it to Ana, his smile infuriatingly charming. "Try one."

Ana eyed it suspiciously. "And if I accept, am I agreeing to mate?" she countered.

He chuckled, sending shivers down her spine. "Nae, but I shall not refuse you if you desire." He lifted the fruit to her lips, his touch gentle. "Just a taste."

She took a bite. "What is it?" she asked, her voice husky with the unexpected delight. "Tastes like a plum, but better."

"A plum," he said with a shrug, his grin revealing a flash of fangs. "Your heightened senses unleash its nuances."

His thumb brushed her lips, catching the juice dribbling down her chin and sending a jolt through her. The urge to suck the sweetness from his skin was almost irresistible, but she steeled herself.

He brought his thumb to his mouth and licked it. Her stomach muscles clenched, and she found it hard to breathe. His nostrils flared, and he growled.

A sudden tug on her hand jolted her back to reality. The oalnt, standing beside her, had snatched the pit with its beak. The unexpected theft broke her trance-like focus on the prince.

"Let's move," she blurted, her voice hoarse. She focused on the path ahead, anything but the alluring prince beside her.

Easier said than done, with the air crackling with unspoken desire and his mischievous grin practically daring her to give in. A trap and a temptation. He knew his effect on her; that much was clear. And the worst part? He clearly loved it.

He strode forward, pointing out a cluster of brightly colored cottages nestled against the verdant mountainside. Wisps of smoke curled invitingly from their chimneys. "Gnome houses."

They moved through the village. Small dwelling, clinging to the edge of the mountains overlooked a dizzying drop. Cobblestone paths wound past workshops, the air thick with woodsmoke's sweetness and the rhythmic clang of hammers.

Artisans meticulously crafted soap and jewelry, candlemakers coaxed waxen forms, glassblowers breathed life into molten blobs, and tanners tamed rawhide beneath diligent hands. At the heart of it all, a blacksmith's forge roared.

Wonder washed over Ana as mesmerizing sights and sounds swirled around her. Myth and reality collided in this fantastical realm, and Quinn, with his easy smile and enthralling presence, was its most captivating charm.

Beyond the town, gnomes in red, blue, orange, yellow, and green stood on a lush meadow before a course of hoops, poles, and tunnels. A yodel erupted from one of the wee men. Dust billowed as massive beetles erupted from mounds, their wings humming a vibrant melody. With practiced ease, the gnomes mounted their steeds, their tiny figures comical against the giants, launching into the sky in a dazzling display of color and grace.

They dove through tunnels, spun through the air, and defied gravity over towering walls in a thrilling race. A lively gnome crowd cheered from wooden bleachers as a spectacle unfolded. Graceful dives, daring acrobatics, and bursts of speed saw Yellow cross the line first. The arena erupted in a joyous cacophony. Ana captivated, smiled and clapped, the excitement contagious.

Amidst the cheers, Ana smiled. "How fun," she clapped, feeling the sting in her palms.

Quinn, his hand on her back, agreed. "They deserve their joy."

Nearby, cheers filled the air as another game unfolded. Gnomes in yellow and green gamed with boomerangs, their laughter echoing through the air. They leaped, tackled, and intercepted the spinning wood with impressive skill. Practiced catches and daring blocks echoed alongside playful banter, the atmosphere electric with friendly competition.

Quinn leaned in close to her, his whispered words sending shivers down her spine. "This game is called boomer." His breath gently caressed her ear. A gasp escaped her lips as her stomach fluttered with desire. She clenched her fists, digging her nails into her palms to suppress the urge to run her tongue along his chest. Taking a deep breath, she composed herself and appreciated the remarkable performance of the talented gnomes.

"Are you ready to continue?"

"Yes." She smiled. This strange yet wonderful place continued to captivate her.

As he reached out to hold her hand, a jolt ran through her body, betraying her longing for his touch. Her breath hitched, and a faint smile tugged at the corner of his mouth, as if he knew the effect he had on her. Angry at her own vulnerability, she released his grip and shot him a glare.

"I would like to take you to a special spot," he said, his voice filled with anticipation.

"Okay." She nodded.

The prince led her through a vibrant bloomscape, sweet floral perfume saturating the air. Towering violet, blue, and yellow pumpkin-sized blossoms lined the path of stone steps leading to a serene lake. A magnificent silver-leaved tree swayed nearby, its tendrils brushing the ground with a gentle sigh. A cascading waterfall serenaded them as golden fish darted through the sun-dappled water. Beneath the tree's embrace, a soft blanket awaited, laden with a delectable feast.

"Please, join me for a meal," he purred.

The rich aroma of grilled meats and roasted mushrooms wafted through the air, intertwining with the sweet butter and steamed vegetables. Her stomach rumbled.

He gestured to a seat, then settled near her with a warming smile. "Please, enjoy."

"Your home is stunning." She ate a yellow squash that had the flavor of green beans.

"I'm glad you think so. I hope you shall one day consider it your own."

Ana's insides tumbled, a mix of trepidation and excitement. This place was beautiful, and Quinn was undeniably charming. Yet could she make a home here, so far from everything she knew? How could she give up a life she loved? Seizing the opportunity, she decided to subtly gather information to plan her escape. "How do you leave the mountain to get to the valley?"

"By flight." He sipped from a polished silver goblet.

She gritted her teeth, quelling her shiver of fear. Great, now I have to learn to fly.

Memories of the earlier race flickered in her mind; she was far too large to mount those insects. Riding them would be equally daunting, regardless of their size. Yet, another thought struck her, "What about the gnomes? The ones who don't ride beetles?"

QUINN

Quinn's keen gaze tracked Ana's every expression as he described the gnomes' treacherous descent. "A climb not for the faint of heart," he finished.

He understood the unspoken craving in her voice, the tremor in her hands that betrayed the terror a climb down would evoke. A pang of possessiveness, fierce and unexpected, clawed at his chest.

"Where did you find me?" Ana gazed out beyond the mountain.

Escape was likely on her mind, a yearning to return to the familiarity of her world. Yet, the thought of losing her, of watching her vanish back into the unknown, was an agony he couldn't bear. Thus, he attempted to soothe her fears by answering her questions with subtly woven tales of his gargoyles, of their courage, and the hidden wonders of his kingdom. Guiding the conversation, every word he spoke was laced with a silent plea, one he hoped would ignite a spark of love for him, for his home, within her heart. It was a gamble, a desperate play, but one he had to take.

The vibrant tapestry of the landscape with emerald meadows, flourishing trees, and an endless azure sky all faded away. Only she held his focus, every detail etched in his mind: the delicate lines of her face, the cascading silk of her hair, the gentle curves of her form. He yearned to see her smile, to hear her laughter, to make her his own.

Her eyes, sparkling with his tale, held him captive. He inhaled her honeyed scent as she leaned closer. Her warmth, a wave crashing over him, drew his smile.

Yet a pang of dread shadowed the thrill when he pointed out Gregor's menacing castle in the distance. The thought of her ever being subjected to that tyrant's rule ignited a possessive fire within him. He inched toward her with a desire to shield her.

Her brow furrowed. He yearned to chase away the shadows clouding her eyes and to assure her that this wasn't a prison but a sanctuary.

He looked down at his plate. "It must be overwhelming." He glanced up at her. "Your change, the uncertainty…" He paused, searching for the words that wouldn't betray his true desires. "It must be tempting to wish to return to what you know."

She winced. Meeting his gaze, his heart swelled with an emotion deeper than mere concern. "But know this, Ana," he continued, "you're not only safe with me, you're cherished."

He dared to move closer; his heart was pounding in his chest as he brushed his hand against hers. The warmth of her touch sent a jolt of electricity through him.

"I have had conversations with Dygo, our gothi, and he is unsure how your change could have taken place." Quinn sighed, wishing he could provide her with the answers she sought. "He suspects the moon goddess may be responsible, but Dygo said she has been quiet of late."

She nodded. "Thank you."

He placed his hand on hers. "Tell me of your home, of your family."

As they talked, the initial awkwardness melted away between them, replaced by a sense of comfortable ease. She opened herself up to him, sharing stories of her realm. Quinn reveled in her tales of her past life, his admiration for her growing with each word. Captivated by her stories of perseverance and achievement, he leaned nearer. Her vulnerability, her willingness to share her failures and her successes, touched him deeply, fueling his desperate hope.

"It appears that you have achieved great success," he finally remarked. "You must have helped so many humans."

"I tried my best," she replied humbly. "It was more than a job; it was my passion."

He shifted nearer to her.

"Tell me about your family," she said. "You've been eager to learn about mine, and now please tell me about yours."

Though her interest thrilled him, a flicker of sadness crossed her face. It mirrored the pang that had tightened his heart ever since the juguai massacre.

"My mother fell defending our people." Despite the grief that threatened to choke him, he straightened his shoulders. "She cherished her gargoyles, and dying for them was her greatest honor." He clenched his jaw, the muscle twitching with suppressed emotion. "My father, in his misguided beliefs, forbade females from training. So when the juguais attacked, not only were her soldiers overwhelmed, but she lacked the skills to defend herself."

Her tail drew closer to his, their tips tangling in silent comfort. Quinn bowed his head, the weight of the loss pressing down on him. "They took our young as well," he confessed with a sigh. "Females had rarely birthed, and we had so few…"

A tremor ran through his arm as he stroked her palm. Her hand hesitated, then moved away subtly, yet her tail remained curiously entwined with his. "I'm so sorry," she whispered.

"Regardless, we hope to have them someday soon." He met her gaze, a glint of silver shining with attraction in her eyes. He sensed her inner turmoil, her struggle to resist her desires. However, when he glanced into her eyes, he came to the realization that resisting her and his impulses would be quite challenging.

"I understand my father's desperation," he confessed, hand returning to hers in a gentle squeeze. "Perhaps it clouds his judgment, forcing this upon you. For that, I apologize. Fear drives him, fear of our lineage ending. While I don't condone his methods, he is our king, and I respect his love for our kingdom."

He paused, a flicker of regret in his heart. "And I realize my initial actions may have caused you distress. I'm truly sorry. Even now, though, you captivate me beyond words. My only hope is that you might see me as a worthy partner, someone to face the future by your side."

She lowered her sights, her eyes fixated on the ground. "It's not you. I just don't belong here."

"Maybe I could convince you otherwise." He smiled, stood, and offered her a hand to help her stand. "Thank you for spending this time with me." He pressed his lips to her palm, lingering for a moment, but the brief caress only left him craving more. She shivered in his hold.

As he yanked her closer with his tail, her body melted into his. He wrapped his arms around her, feeling their hearts beat in sync, a drumbeat of desire. Lifting her chin, he gazed into her eyes, glowing with silver lust. She closed them, parting her lips. With his mouth hovering over hers, he breathed in her sweet scent. Hungry for her taste, he leaned down.

The anticipation crackled in the air, a sweet tension that electrified his senses. Their breaths mingled in a kiss. His tongue teased hers, coaxing it into a dance of passion.

He breathed in her honeyed aroma, savored her intoxicating flavor, and caressed her silky skin. This moment was perfect. She was perfect. With her in his arms, he felt whole. Deepening the kiss, their hunger overflowed into each other. She sighed and leaned against him, her body responding to each flick of his tongue.

When she moaned, a wave of ecstasy washed over him. With great restraint, he released her lips and looked into her eyes, seeking her approval. His longing for her was intense, but he had to ensure that she felt the same. And he respected her.

"You stole a kiss," she gasped, her breath heaving. Yet she didn't pull away. Her eyes still glowed, and her scent intensified.

He widened his eyes in feigned innocence. "My apologies," he said. "Allow me to return it to you." He buried his hands in her hair and pulled her mouth to his.

She parted her lips, and his tongue thrust through the opening. She tasted so right.

Quinn drew her tight to him, her breasts pressed against his chest. Their thighs touched, and their hips aligned. With a provocative gesture, he pressed his bulge against her, teasing her with his passionate yearning. His fingers followed the contours of her body, eliciting her moans.

A jarring screech shattered the serenity, jolting him back to reality. He gritted his teeth and snapped his gaze toward the source of the commotion.

"Is it an attack? Gregor?" she asked, trembling in his arms.

He gripped her tightly. "You're safe. I shall protect you." He encased her in his powerful wings. Danger had arrived, and with it, a renewed determination to defend the female who had stolen his heart.