Back in the dayroom, the lads look up like a pack of nosy dogs. Bear’s got powdered sugar on his shirt from another donut, Phoenix lounges as if he’s been waiting to pounce, and Hollywood is back manning the phone desk.
“Well?” Bear booms. “You getting sacked, promoted, or married?”
“None of the above,” I mutter, pouring myself another coffee just to avoid their stares.
Hollywood grins. “So where’s the chief sending you?”
I take a sip, hiding the smirk tugging at my mouth. “School.”
Phoenix raises his brow.
Bear nearly falls off his chair laughing. “Oh, man. She’s got you doing extra credit!”
I ignore them, but the phone buzzes in my pocket again and their heads snap towards me like it’s a bloody siren.
Pumpkin: Kids get a fire safety demo at one… I want a private fire drill at twelve. Bring your hose, dragon.
Pumpkin: If you’re late, I’ll fail you for tardiness.
I check my watch. Not a chance in hell am I going to be late. I’ll use the lights and sirens if I have to.
Chapter Nineteen
DRAKE
Peering through the small window in the door, I watch her hobble around the classroom with a crutch under her arm as she helps the kids pin their pictures on the wall. Her smile lights up the room, as well as my soul, and I know I’m smitten in the short time I’ve known her, but more than that, I’m desperate for her. Last night, not being able to touch her was as torturous as it was incredible. I can’t wait to get this woman alone in my bed where I can give her the special dragon treatment.
Our eyes lock through the glass, and her smile widens as she hobbles over to the door.
“You’re early,” she says as the door swings open.
“Didn’t want to be late, Miss Sparks.” I pull the autumn bouquet in blazing shades of orange, red, and gold, from behind my back. The fiery plumes look as if I’ve stolen them straight from a bonfire.
Her lips part, her eyes darting to the bouquet before flicking back to mine. “They look like flames.”
“Exactly.” I step closer, lowering my voice. “Reminded me of you—setting my world on fire.”
Her cheeks flush a shade that could rival the flowers. “Smooth, dragon boy,” she whispers.
“Truth.” I grin, brushing a golden rose petal with my thumb. “Besides, I figured a pumpkin like you needed a little fire in her classroom.”
She takes the bouquet carefully, cradling the flowers as if they’re precious jewels. “You realise you just set the bar very high for future deliveries?”
“Good thing I’m a firefighter then.” I wink. “Always ready to bring the heat.”
Her laugh bubbles out, soft and melodic, and the sound sparks in my chest.
She steps aside, welcoming me into the classroom, and the kids erupt with chatter.
“Daddy.” Sienna rushes to me, and I scoop her up into my arms. “Is it home time?”
“No bug. I’m just doing a fire talk in the gymnasium after lunch.”
The lunch bell sounds from the corridor, and Ember waves the kids off as the horde exits the classroom.
I set Sienna down. “Get your lunch. I’ll see you later.”
“Bye, Daddy.” She holds her friend’s hand as they skip out of the door, and I close it behind them, turning the lock.
