To Catch a Dragon

Ruby's Fear

Dammit, Lauren,” I exclaim. Every day, she’s screaming her hatred for dragons. (dragon shifters). I get it, but she never thinks beyond the moment. “I hope no one tells my dad about this.” “s**t, I’m sorry, Rubes,” says Lauren. “I didn’t think everyone would hear.” I roll my eyes, “they always hear, but what else is new? Let’s hope it doesn’t make it back to Dad.” Do you think Mrs. T and Kane will let me stay a couple of days?” I ask hesitantly. “I know Mom would love for you to come over,” she yells, jumping up and down. “And Kane?” Lauren stops jumping and takes on an instant frown. I hate even mentioning him, but it is his house. “How would I know what he wants?” she scowls. I sighed, “Lauren, I know you hate him, but he’s your stepfather. Are you ever going to give him a chance?” “Yeah, the day he gives me my dad back.” It goes quiet while we continue to head to the office, and as we enter the office, I hear my cell phone chime. “BRING YOUR ASS HOME STRAIGHTAWAY FROM SCHOOL! I’LL TEACH YOU BETTER THAN TO EMBARRASS ME! DON’T MAKE ME COME LOOKING FOR YOU, OR YOU WILL REGRET IT!” Tears instantly blinded my eyes as I read the words from my father, Warrior Hector Paiz. I can’t control how my heart races, and the room begins spinning. I hear Lauren faintly, crying and yelling for me to get up. Goddess help me! When I awaken, I am in the nurse’s office. I hear Lauren telling someone she’s not going anywhere until she knows I’m okay. “I am fine,” I reply weakly. “You scared me! What happened?” Then, I remembered my father’s message and began to hyperventilate. The nurse, a portly old woman, says, “Place your head down, Dearie. Now, take deep breaths in your nose and out of your mouth. That’s a girl just like that.” I can’t believe that helps. I get myself under control, and I look over to Lauren. She’s teary-eyed and looking at the floor. I look around the room, and I see Kane. My head snaps back to Lauren, and I can see she’s fuming. Her fists are balled up, and her face is in a scowl. “What is going on in here?” he asks in his gravelly voice. “I, I, um…” I sputter. “You don’t have to tell him anything!” screams Lauren. I drop my head when I hear Kane’s roar. This isn’t good.