“Jarhead, want to join us in town?” Zan asked, a hint of mischief in his voice. “We’re only going for a bit. You’ll be back before you need to go on duty.” The nickname ‘Jarhead’ bristled at Jahree. It was a term he had hoped to leave behind. “And you calling me ‘Jarhead’ makes me trust you?” Jahree retorted a bit wryly. Keteel, who had started calling him that in jest because he habitually struggled to re-member Jahree’s real name, inadvertently setting the trend. When Jarhree was attacked by Trean, Midta needed to come several times to heal him by bringing his son with him. Keteel had called him Jarhead, and the others picked up on it. He’d hoped he’d left it behind him when he left Thager. “Sorry. Seriously, come.” Zan amended, trying to smooth over any offense. Jahree shook his head. With Tellic accompanying the group, he had no doubt nothing untoward would happen. Still, he had other plans for his coin. “Not this time, thanks.” Tellic’s brow furrowed in concern as the others moved off without them. He hung back and approached Jahree. “Guys, I’ll catch up,” he called after them before turning his attention back to Jahree as they headed towards the barracks. “Lanni went down to Sen-gan. So you’re not spending time with her. What’s up?” “Nothing,” Jahree replied, but his tone wasn’t entirely convincing. “When have you ever turned down a chance to go into town?” Tellic prodded, clearly knowing that something was amiss. Jahree exhaled, the secret bubbling up inside him. “I’m just saving my money. I’m close now.” “Close to what?” Tellic’s curiosity was piqued. Jahree glanced around to ensure no one was eavesdropping. “Don’t tell anyone,” he said in a low tone. “Next time we get paid, I’ll have enough for a ring.” “A ring?” Tellic raised an eyebrow in surprise. “Why do you need jewelry?” Jahree could barely contain his mixture of excitement and nervousness. “It’s not for me. It’s for Lanni. I’m going to propose to her. I love her, Tellic. It’s not just about sleep-ing with her; I want to be her mate, her husband.” The sincerity in his voice was unmis-takable, his intention clear as the bright Thager sky “What about your scars? That money was supposed to be for your treatments to get those healed,” Tellic reminded Jahree, concern evident in his voice. Jahree shook his head resolutely. “This is more important. I love her, Tellic. I love her deeply and want her to know it—to feel it.” Tellic frowned, somewhat perplexed. “What about bonding? Isn’t that significant to dragons in love?” “I think we’re already slightly bonded. When we journeyed up to the frigid cliffs of Kripdom, I could sense she was still cold.” “The chattering of her teeth wasn’t a giveaway?” Tellic teased, trying to lighten the mood. Jahree chuckled softly. “Her teeth weren’t chattering.” Tellic shook his head, still not fully comprehending human customs. “I don’t see why you humans have to spend a bunch of money on jewelry to signify a marriage engage-ment, but I’m sincerely glad you’ve found someone who completes you.” Jahree smiled, appreciative. “Thanks, Tellic.” “I’ll accompany you when you purchase the ring. Nobody dares to rob a troll,” Tellic offered protectively. “I just want to show you the ring I’ve chosen for her,” Jahree said. “And I’ll be there to see it. But for now, don’t worry. Join the rest of us. I’ll buy you a round in celebration,” Tellic gestured, already envisioning the merriment. “Celebration? We aren’t pledged yet,” Jahree pointed out, a hint of anxiety threading his words. “She loves you too. That much is plain for everyone to see. She’ll be your wife,” Tellic reassured him with a confident nod. Jahree hesitated for a moment, then a weary sigh escaped him. “I suppose I could use something to ease my nerves. I’ll relax properly when she says yes.” “Have a drink to help,” Tellic suggested, clapping Jahree on the back. Agreeing with a nod, Jahree allowed a small smile to curve his lips. Indeed, a dinner out with the guys would be a nice distraction from the mounting anticipation of a future just within his grasp. #fantasy #magic #dragons #hiddenlands