Page 3 of Beaux and Dragons

Governess Paloma shouted in a frantic tone, “Ana! Ana, return now!”

Ana hesitated to let go of tiny Celestia, but Governess Paloma calling couldn’t be a good sign. She handed the babe to Federico, brushing against his hand and forearms. Concern etched between his eyebrows,but Ana winked to reassure him that all would be well in spite of a lingering sense of dread.

Though Ana rushed up the path and attempted to smooth away the mud from her cheeks, the damage was done. Padre, with all his pomp and superiority, waited with a demure Governess Paloma at the top of the path, not deigning to step onto the servants’ trail to the stable.

He smiled beneath his well-groomed mustache and shifted his gaze over her soiled dress. “I suppose we must discuss how we are to proceed with plans to announce that you are out in society.”

Governess Paloma, though a severe woman, bit her lip and avoided looking in her direction.

She’d been avoiding this discussion as if it were a plague, and now her nightmare would be realized.

Chapter two

The Letters

Letter the First

From Federico to Ana

3 months after Federico left

My Dear Ana,

You asked me to report on pirates if I should run into any, and I have concluded that I much prefer your mudslinging to theirs. Though I am a new recruit, I did excellent in the basic training and was put on an air team and matchedwith a dragon—an obstinate one, but one who did the job when pirates tried to invade our ship.

As for the composition of the pirate ship, the pirates were all seamen who had much need of a wash. Truthfully, their love for trinkets and gold could only be matched by your father.

Pray tell me he hasn’t set a betrothal already. I’m still alive and kicking like I promised. What of your flying? I hear rumors that ladies might be allowed to race soon, but all of it is speculation. We can hold on to hope, can we not?

Federico

Letter the Second

From Ana to Federico

3.5 months after Federico left

Dear Federico,

You are too much. I had to hide your letter in fear that Padre would find your ostentatious accusation about him being like a pirate. I’d also like to point out that I was anticipating more details about your heroic fighting and how you defeated the criminals from the back of your beast, but I see that I am not to get such tantalizing details and must take comfort in my novels instead.

As for ladies being allowed to race, the rumors have always existed. I am content to daydream while Carbón allows me to saddle and ride her by myself. Indeed, the imprinting has taken full effect, and I cannot shake my littleshadow. Celestia will not let me walk the mountainside without her presence. I believe that is the only reason Carbón allows me the privilege of riding her back. I’m certain it’s out of compassion that she gives me a break from the babe.

Either way, I am content knowing you are alive and well and soaring through the skies each day.

As for betrothals, don’t even speak to me about such things. Padre invited Julian Montenegro to the estate for dinner, and I am obliged to spend the evening entertaining him. If I thought Padre had no ulterior motives, this might be a pleasant arrangement.

Write back if you meet a siren. This time, I want details and none of your snarky analogies to members of my family.

Ana

Letter the Third

From Federico to Ana

4 months after Federico left

My Dear Ana,