When the Magic Stops

Dragon Fire

“Demon war? Mom, what are you talking about? You’ve never taught us anything about demons other than that they’re evil, now we’re suddenly at war with them? Also, my MATE has a name, so don’t just call him ‘the half dragon,’ because he is your future son in law whether you like it or not.” Mom stared at me for a second. This was the first time I had ever spoken to her that way.

“Catrina, love, don’t talk to your mother that way. She’s got a whole coven to look after, too, and needs to get the ball rolling.” Draiven didn’t hesitate to tell me off. “I get that you’re worrying about me, but I’ll be alright. Calm down for me, okay? Just breathe.” He winced as he was speaking, trying and failing to hide the pain he was in. I took a deep breath, not wanting him to get worked up in his condition.

“Alright, sweetie. I’m calm. Adrian, can you help me get him to his new room? I’ll call Amanda to check him out, but I’m not leaving his side while that’s happening.” I looked over at my mother. “I’m sorry, Mom. I know I overreacted. I’m just feeling-” Mom held up a hand, cutting me off.

“Protective. I know. He’s hurt. You spoke like a true priestess, honey, but you’re not that highly ranked yet. I’ll let it go this time because your mate is injured, but there will be consequences if you speak to me like that again. Do you understand me?” She gave me the “mom” look that makes me feel like I’m a five year old that just got caught with her hand in the cookie jar. I looked at Draiven again only to find that he’d passed out again.

“Yes, Mom. I understand.” Adrian helped me get Draiven to his feet and into his new room. Once he was settled, I went and got Amanda, the best doctor in the coven. When she tried to ask me to leave the room, my eyes flashed and I snarled at her. Logically, I knew she needed to see his injuries to treat him, but, damn it, he was MINE. After she looked him over, she asked me to step out of the room with her for a moment. Once we were in the hall, she closed the door and spoke.

“For starters, he is incredibly dehydrated and malnourished. He likely won’t be able to eat much at a time. I suggest multiple small meals a day and plenty of water. Having you with him, as his mate, will also be beneficial to him, as it will help him stay calm while he’s on bed rest, which I recommend for at least a few days, up to a week. Keep him comfortable. Also, I noticed several injuries that look like they weren’t allowed to heal properly when he first received them. It appears that your mate has been severely physically abused, but is trying to work past his trauma. Much as he may like to, he can’t do it alone. He may put on a strong front, but he needs to feel safe, Catrina. His cuts and bruises will heal in a few days, but the broken bones and concussion will take a bit longer. I can’t say how long, as this is the first time I’ve ever treated a half-shifter.

“Speaking of, he shouldn’t shift forms for a while. It could cause more problems than he needs right now. He should focus on healing in his human form, and building his relationship with you. I am going to discuss his physical condition with him, but as for his mental health, he should discuss that and what he’s been through with you, and possibly even consider therapy.” Amanda spoke in a professional tone, letting me know that despite everything, she was taking her job very seriously, not that she wouldn’t. She’s the coven’s best doctor for a reason.

I nodded, listening to what she was saying. If he needed to talk about his past to get better, I would be there for him. I would do whatever he needed.

“Thank you, Amanda. Anything else I should know?” Amanda smirked.

“Keep Logan away from him. He’ll easily rip the coven manwhore apart.” I couldn’t help it; I died laughing.