Page 86 of Israel

“Depends,” Israel said. He had no idea what was going on here, but his blood was stirring with excitement. “What’s the upside?”

“You will be a Guardian of the Draken, and our magic will run through your veins. Your strength and lifespan will match hers.”

Holy fuck, again. An entire dragon’s lifetime with his mate. The idea made him dizzy.

“And if it turns out I’m not worthy?” he asked.

“A slow and painful death, burning from within.”

Israel glanced at Ashley, who gave a slight shrug, wide-eyed. She had no idea if this was a good idea.

The Draken king held out his hand. Without hesitation, Israel took it. If there was even a chance he could be with Ashley for her whole life, it was a no-brainer.

As soon as he took the king’s hand, liquid fire pulsed through his veins. It was worse than the dragonfire destroying his hand. It seemed to go on forever, and then he found himself on his knees in the parking lot, gasping, the chill night air washing over his sweat-soaked skin.

But he was alive, and dragonfire pulsed in his veins.

The king dropped his hand and turned away. “He will do,” he said.

He gestured to the other two Draken, and they swirled their cloaks around them and disappeared, the wind from their wings the only lingering sign of their presence.

Israel climbed wearily to his feet and took his mate in his arms. It was finally over.