Dragon's Mate

Karee stood on the battlements high above the rippling green lawn. Under her hands the cream-colored stone provided support as she gazed across the countryside that would soon be hers to oversee. The wind carried the crisp, clean scent of spring, and her thoughts drifted to the sky where sunlight glittered off iridescent dragon scales as they flew overhead, safeguarding the land.

Ever since her first encounter with dragons as a little girl, she'd dreamed of being a dragon's mate. Of flying high in the air and having one man love her forever, something rarely seen in the noble world she was born to. Yet here she was, in her white and gold wedding finery, hours away from marrying Prince Marcus of Alleon; forever tied to the land while yearning for the sky.

"Karee, it's time." A familiar voice called from the stair entrance.

Sighing in resignation, she spun around to reply, "Coming momma." After a last longing glance up, she slowly crossed to the stairs, feeling as if she were going to a funeral and not the joyous occasion of her wedding.

It wasn't that she didn't like Marcus; in fact, he was one of her dearest friends, but he did not inspire her with passion. Growing up together, he'd always been there for her--a comforting presence, almost like a brother, but not. From what she'd overheard, from servants and friends, their joining should be a burning fervor, yet his touched warmed and soothed, nothing about it inflamed her passion.

"You look lovely, my dear. I'm so happy for you," her mother greeted, pushing errant strands of Karee's windblown hair back in place.

"Thank you momma," she answered dejectedly.

"Oh, sweetheart, your father and I thought this union would meet with your approval. You and Prince Marcus have known each other a long time and are such good friends."

"I know, momma. Some dreams just can't come true. I promise everything will be fine. Marcus is a good man." But he did not love her and never would, based on what she had seen two days ago. But then if she felt a stronger connection to a stranger then Marcus, what did that say about her?