Page 50 of What Beats Within the Tunnels

“Are you two close friends?” I inquire.

“I’d like to think so,” he responds, easing himself down next to me on the bench.

“Then why did you doubt I’d be here?” I ask.

“Colton doesn’t bring women home, so you being here must indicate there’s something quite exceptional about you,” he remarks, his gaze intense yet not unkind.

“She is special,” Colton interjects, seemingly materializing from thin air as he channels in front of us. In a couple of strides, he’s right beside me, bending down to plant a kiss on my lips. This isn’t a fleeting gesture, either; he lingers, relishing the moment before finally pulling away.

“Ahem.” I shy away a tad awkwardly, my eyes darting between Colton and Dorian.

“I can certainly see that,” Dorian comments cheerfully.

“You were only gone for a couple of hours. Did you manage to get everything done?” I ask, looking up at Colton.

“Enough for now,” he replies, glancing toward the house as if sensing someone there. “Have you met Rix and Rune?”

“Yes, they’re really kind. And quite adorable,” I admit, smiling as I think of the two Twig Wisps.

“Adorable? They’ll be thrilled to hear that,” Dorian chuckles from beside me.

“So, what’s on the agenda today? More training, or can we switch things up and do something fun for once?” I ask, giving Chepi a gentle pat as I look up at Colton.

He raises an eyebrow, amusement flickering in his eyes. “Actually, Dorian has to take a little trip today, and I thought we would tag along.”

“I’m intrigued. What kind of trip are we taking? Should I pack snacks?” I ask.

Dorian chuckles, giving me a playful nudge with his elbow. “Snacks? I’m starting to like this one already,” he remarks.

Colton chimes in, “No need for that. We shouldn’t be gone for too long, and I’m sure Rix and Rune are preparing a feast for this evening.” I feign a pout, eliciting laughter from him.

“Does our journey involve the Dream Forest?” I continue.

“Indeed, it does,” Dorian confirms.

With a burst of enthusiasm, I declare, “Then I’m in.” Safely tucking Chepi under my arm and getting to my feet, Colton pulls me close, an arm wrapped snugly around my waist. I lean into his embrace, catching Dorian’s cheeky smile before he vanishes.

“We’re following him, I assume?” I say.

“Yes,” Colton replies, leaning in for a quick kiss. “A heads up, Bim will stop by later. He might stay for dinner too. If you’re uncomfortable with it, I can reschedule.”

I shake my head. “It’s okay. Let him stay.” He nods before we channel away.

Chapter 18

Lyra

We land smoothly on a craggy ledge, Colton’s arm securely around me until I find my balance. Chepi, restless in my embrace, wriggles free to explore our surroundings. We stand atop a high mountain range, and I’m drawn to the edge, mesmerized by the sight below. Endless mountain peaks pierce through a vast sea of rosy-hued clouds, their beauty breathtaking.

Muffled voices pull my attention back, and I realize we’re not alone. Near what seems to be the entrance to a mine, Dorian converses with two miners, their clothes stained with deep shades of blue and black. After a brief exchange, the miners vanish from sight.

I turn to Colton, curiosity piqued. “What is this place?”

“It’s one of Dorian’s mines,” he replies.

I glance back at Dorian, eyebrows raised in question. “And what exactly are you mining here, Dorian? What do you do?”

“I own a armory in Nitross,” he replies, waving an arm for us to follow him.