The Alpha Weredragon's Favorite
CHAPTER 54

Lyra

I woke up slowly, enveloped in a cocoon of warmth and comfort with Ryan's strong body wrapped around mine. His arm, corded with muscle, was heavy but reassuring around my waist. I shook with silent laughter as his soft snoring danced strands of my hair across my face.

For the past three days, Ryan had insisted that I stay with him in his home while I recovered. He had been attentive and caring, bathing me, ensuring I ate well, and even helping me with the homework Sally brought over each day. Any more time spent in his care and I would remain with him forever.

That was why I had to leave.

Well, that and because I needed to start my training with Killian. The sooner I had my wolf, the better. I think I had waited long enough.

Twice I'd overheard Ryan and Killian at the front door, their heated arguments escalating into a near brawl. I knew Ryan was just trying to protect me, but I couldn't help but feel a twinge of frustration at being kept in the dark.

I had a few questions swirling in my mind, and when I trained with Killian, I was determined to get the answers. Only then could I tell Ryan my secret, as one thing was for sure, I couldn't keep it from him much longer.

I felt every inch of Ryan's hard body as he stirred awake, his strong arms tightening around me. A shiver ran through me as his lips found mine in a deep, passionate kiss. I melted into him, savoring the taste and feel of his mouth on mine. Too soon, he pulled back, his blue eyes dark with desire. "We should wait until you're fully healed before taking this further," he said, his voice rough.

Disappointment flooded through me, but I understood his concern. I lifted my arm, showing him the smooth, unblemished skin. "Look, no scars or blood. I'm all better now."

His gaze traveled over my arm and then to my side, seeing that the wounds had indeed vanished without a trace. He tugged his bottom lip between his teeth, a habit I found incredibly sexy.

I could see the internal battle raging within him as he stared down at me, torn between his desire and his sense of responsibility. Just as he leaned in, clearly about to throw caution to the wind and kiss me again, a rapid knock sounded at the door.

Ryan groaned, his forehead falling against mine for a brief moment before he pulled away. "That'll be Killian," he said, his tone a mix of annoyance and resignation.

I sighed, knowing our moment was lost. Killian had been trying to talk to me for days, but Ryan had been fiercely protective, barely letting me out of his sight. As much as I appreciated his care and concern, I needed answers about my role as the White Wolf.

Ryan climbed out of bed, pulling on a pair of jeans that hung low around his hips before heading to the door. I sat up, running a hand through my tousled hair as I tried to calm my racing heart.

I heard low voices from the other room, Ryan and Killian's tones clipped and tense. I knew Ryan was reluctant to let me out of his protection, but I also sensed that Killian was growing impatient.

I was already dressed in soft black leggings and an oversized shirt, my hair in a messy bun, when Ryan returned. A tick in his jaw appeared that was already tight with frustration. "Killian insists on speaking with you," he said, his voice carefully controlled. "But I'm not letting you go alone. I'll be right there with you."

I was both touched and a little exasperated by his over-protectiveness. "Ryan, I have to get back to my studies. You need to plan for your birthday and The Luna trials. We'll see each other soon."

He sighed, crossing his arms over his massive chest and shifting from one foot to the other. "I know. I just... I can't be without you for long little one."

My heart melted at his words, and I reached out to take his hand. "Same, okay?" I grinned. "I tell you what, if you have time, I need to go into town and buy some more clothes. Would you like to join me?"

Ryan's face contorted into a comical grimace at the mention of shopping, his brows furrowing and his mouth twisting as if he'd just bitten into a lemon. I couldn't help but laugh at his exaggerated expression, the sound bubbling up from my chest and filling the room.

"Shopping, huh?" he said, his tone dripping with disdain. "You know I'd rather face a pack of rabid wolves than step foot in a store, right?"

I grinned, poking him playfully in the chest. "Oh, come on, tough guy. It won't be that bad. Besides, I need your opinion on what looks good on me."

He sighed, his broad shoulders slumping in defeat. "Fine, fine. I'll go with you. But only because it's you asking... and because you laughed. I don't hear that sound very often... and I love it."

My heart skipped a beat at his words, warmth spreading through my chest. It meant more to me than he probably realized that he liked it when I was happy.

"Thank you," I said softly, rising up on my toes to press a gentle kiss to his cheek. "I promise I'll make it as painless as possible."

He chuckled, his arms wrapping around my waist and pulling me close. "I'm holding you to that, little one. No trying on every single item in the store, okay?"

I smiled, burying my face in his chest. "No promises," I teased, my voice muffled by his shirt.

We stayed like that for a moment, just holding each other, before a loud knock at the door reminded us that Killian was still waiting. Ryan sighed, pressing a kiss to the top of my head before releasing me. "Guess we better not keep the professor waiting any longer," he said, his tone reluctant.

I nodded, steeling myself for the conversation ahead. As much as I wanted to stay cocooned in Ryan's arms, I had to learn about who I was.

With a deep breath, I followed Ryan to the door, already looking forward to a little retail therapy with my favorite Alpha.