Anger and hurt burned through the bond. Gasping, Nathan turned to look at the stone-faced Griffin. Without thought, Nathan stood, quickly crossing to his mate and dropping into his lap. Wrapping his arms around the living statue's waist, Nathan whispered to him through the bond, "I'm not leaving you. Ever."
Slowly, Nathan could feel Griffin thawing and relaxing as he wrapped his own arms around Nathan, pulling him flush against his chest. "I know. It was instinctual at the thought of possibly losing you. I know better."
[Can't really blame you,] Kael added. [It was worded… badly.]
Draven watched the couple comfort each other, giving them a moment before clearing his throat. "I must apologize. I phrased that poorly. I only meant as a guardian or protector. Not a partner."
Griffin glared at him across the table. "Mine," he growled.
Draven bowed his head.
Nathan sighed softly. "Let me think about it. Please."
"Of course. If you have any questions for me, please, do not hesitate to ask." With that said, Draven stood, making his way out the front door and back to the house he was using.
Griffin and Nathan sat there for another moment, absorbing each other's warmth.
[Well that was an interesting start to the day,] Axel said cheerfully.
Carefully, Griffin maneuvered Nathan so they were facing each other, Nathan straddling his lap. "So, what do you want to do?"
"Well… For starters, I'd like to go for my run and take a bath."
"I meant…"
"I know what you meant," Nathan interrupted. "And I'm not sure. Not yet." Nathan stared up at Griffin, his eyes wide and pleading. "I just need some time to think about what I want to do."
Griffin groaned at the puppy dog look Nathan was giving him. "Alright, fine. You win." Griffin kissed Nathan's forehead and cheeks. "Go for your run. Business as usual. When you've made a decision, let me know."
Nathan grinned as he climbed off Griffin's lap. "Thank you," he said, returning the quick kisses.
Griffin sat there watching as Nathan walked out the back door, shifting right before he hit the trees.
**********
Draken Mortenson sat in his dark office, thinking. "What is taking that boy so long? He should have been back by now or at least sent notice."
He sat there, drumming his fingers across his desk. Sitting up straight, Draven called out, "Mister Felix!"
Quickly, the door to the office opened, a young man with pale blond hair and a glowing tan walked in. "You called, Priest Mortenson?"
"Yes, I need to do something for me."
"Of course," the young man said instantly.
Draken waved him forward, pulling a map of Nerda out and spreading it across the desk. Pointing at Red Peak Mountain, Draken looked up at Felix, who'd moved to stand right in front of the desk.
"My son went there almost two weeks ago and I haven't heard from him since. I need you to go and find him."
Felix leaned forward, studying the map. "Red Peak Mountain," he said softly to himself. He continued to stare at the map, tracing different routes to get there. Looking up he finally said, "I can do it but I'll have to take the longer way. There aren't enough water sources on the short route for me."
Draken looked back at the map, slowly tracing the longer route with his finger. He paused when his finger reached Dark Moon Mountain. A sly smile stretched across his face.