This is a drink that smells of fire, Raziel murmured.
And it burned going down just like fire. It was delicious with hints of orange and smoke and wood. He puffed on the cigar and drank his cognac. Maybe the night would not be a complete bust.
Chione jumped down from the upper platform. She had a shirt in one hand and boots in the other. Valerius frowned as he had never seen that shirt before. It was black with a brilliant red collar that extended from the second button of the shirt and then wound around his throat. There was a stylized fire design that extended from the collar down his right arm.
“That must be Caden’s, Chione. Nothing of his will fit me,” Valerius said.
“It’s yours. I purchased it and put it in your closet for an occasion just like this,” she said with a laugh.
“Very sneaky, Chione,” he muttered through his smoke.
“Of course! Now dress. I’ll hold that for you.”
She exchanged the shirt and boots for the cigar and cognac. She drank and smoked both while he pulled on the shirt. It fit him like a glove. He slid his feet into the boots. They were old, but one of his favorite pairs. He spread his arms once he was dressed.
“Well? Do I look presentable?” Valerius asked.
“Good thing you’re already getting married to Caden. He might not take you now compared to all of us.” Illarion smirked.
Valerius growled and narrowed his eyes. But the others just laughed.
“You look very handsome, Valerius,” Chione assured him.
He got his cigar and cognac back. She straightened his shirt and nodded as if she approved. He sat back down now that he was Chione-approved. He hoped Caden liked this shirt.
Our mate must find us strong and virile! Raziel pointed out.
I see. Well, we succeeded in this, I think, Valerius chuckled.
“Before we do anything, we must have a toast!” Marban said as he filled everyone’s glass.
The beautiful amber liquid sloshed thickly in the delicate snifter. All lifted theirs towards the fire. The beautiful golden light reflected back on their faces. It was a beautiful sight.
Marban cleared his throat. “We are gathered here tonight to celebrate Caden and Valerius’ upcoming nuptials.”
“Their last night as free men!” Illarion chortled.
“Have they been free since the giant helix appeared in the sky?” Anwar added his small laugh.
“We have not wanted to be free of each other almost from the first moment we met,” Valerius pointed out.
“After he iced Valerius.” Illarion was enjoying this much too much.
My mate is strong. Tell him he is green with jealousy, Raziel grumbled.
But Valerius just shook his head. Let Illarion have his jokes, because they had Caden and Iolaire.
“Now, now,” Marban said and gave the two Dragon Shifters a firm look that seemed to work, “While there may be some in this life who are better off alone and who will have their wings clipped by marriage, Valerius is not one of those. Dare I say that he soars higher and burns brighter with his mate and soon to be husband Caden? I think I more than dare say it. I exclaim it!”
“Hear, hear!” Anwar called out.
They all clinked their glasses together and drank deeply.
“Thank you for your kind thoughts, Marban.” Valerius inclined his head. “There are so many things about this night that would not have been possible without Caden. Our new and renewed friendships.” He lifted his glass to each of them. “On a personal level, my life would not be as rich and happy as it is without all of you in it.”
“Grumpy Valerius is still an adorable Valerius,” Chione said with affection as she perched on the arm of the sofa.
“I will still have my moments, don’t you worry! Especially if you have a report for me somewhere in that dress.” He playfully scowled at her as she pretended to look to pull out a report. “But your friendship means so much more than my simple happiness. The world is as it is because we came together. So Raziel and I thank you with everything we are.”
