Page 67 of Draven

“They’re in the closet,” he said, parting from me.

Tobias and I quickly retrieved the folding chairs and table from the closet, maneuvering them out onto the small patch of grass outside his trailer.

Despite the cramped space, we managed to arrange everything in a cozy setup, the table adorned with a simple checkered tablecloth.

As we worked together, I couldn't help but steal glances at Tobias and the way he focused on the task at hand.

There was something endearing about the sight of him, his sleeves rolled up and a faint sheen of sweat glistening on his brow.

"Now there's only the food left," Tobias announced, wiping his hands on his jeans with a satisfied smile.

"I can help you bring it out," Doyle offered, his voice still a bit raspy from his injuries, but stronger than yesterday.

As they headed inside, Zane stepped closer to me, his dark-green eyes appraising Tobias and then shifting to meet mine.

"He's certainly something," Zane said quietly.

"He's my treasure," I agreed, not hiding the pride in my voice.

Zane nodded. "You've come a long way," he remarked. “Your dragon seems more stable now.”

“I can’t take all the credit. Without Tobias, I’d probably be the same,” I admitted.

Tobias and Doyle emerged from the trailer, holding trays with pancakes, bacon, and scrambled eggs.

Breakfast smelled great, and I couldn’t help but feel a surge of warmth at the sight of Tobias so effortlessly taking care of everyone.

We settled around the table, the morning sun casting a soft glow over our makeshift dining area. Despite Zane’s unexpected visit, Tobias served everyone with a smile.

I couldn’t help but watch him. He was really great at this, at hosting.

Zane took a bite of the pancakes and let out an appreciative hum.

"These are good, Tobias. Really good,” Zane said.

Tobias blushed slightly, ducking his head. "Thanks. I'm glad you like them,” Tobias said.

To his credit, Zane waited until breakfast was over to tell us why he left Sky Stead.

"I'm bringing you back home with me, Doyle," Zane said.

Doyle flashed him a look of irritation, and I didn't blame him. Our kind lived longer than most shifters.

While Doyle looked like he was in his mid-thirties, he was more than a century old, in contrast to me, who was really in my early thirties.

Doyle probably didn't like being treated like he was in need of Zane’s protection.

"No. I was thinking of staying here a little while longer. Draven and I can come up with a plan to deal with Belladonna once and for all," Doyle said.

That surprised Zane and me both. Tobias let out a surprised gasp, and I unthinkingly reached for his hand across the table and gave it a reassuring squeeze.

Tobias recovered quickly enough.

"Actually, that's a good idea. Two heads are better than one, and you guys would have each other's backs," Tobias said.

Zane wasn’t easily swayed. He leaned forward, his brow furrowed in frustration.

"You can't be serious. Doyle, it would take at least two weeks to completely regenerate your arm. And since when are you and Draven suddenly buddies?" Zane asked, his voice edged with frustration.