Over the next few days both Earl and Lisa were missing which made Jasmine concerned. The ranchers she asked for information easily put the two and two together. In more than one case. They just said that they were doing dragon things and as long as they don't wind up in the vet building they were most likely fine. So that is where she kept me. While Tom and Jake played games like tag or wrestled I was stuck in the only air conditioned, supposed, building. When I was not comforting Jasmines nerves I read up on the laws and other information on endangered species. There was more than I thought to it and I thought there was a lot. The jest was that if I did not claim him mine and did not do anything to prevent his movements then I could keep him. In a sense. We also kept Al company after Jacob introduced us. It did not take him long to figure out everything either and he could not just tell Jasmine either. So there we were an hour before the last dinner bell before we spend our last night there. Tom comes inside. “ They are back.” 

Jasmine was out of there like a starved cat pouncing on a meal. I did not move as fast but just enough to show I was worried as well. I did not think it would take so long. I had watched on the discovery channel that some animals can go on and off for weeks before they finish to satisfaction. When I saw Earl again that was exactly what he was. Very satisfied. That is before Jasmine wrapped her arms around Lisa as if she would never see them again. That surprised the two dragons into shock. Then I noticed Lisa looking into my eyes. As soon as ours connected hers diverted downward to Jasmine under her head. I became very surprised in thinking what that might be. “ See Jasmine they are perfectly fine. Now Jake and Tom why don't you two tell the others they are fine. Jasmine could you go get our stuff from the clinic?”

Tom and Jake the hint for wanted privacy immediately. Jasmine just remained still until Lisa nipped her hair. “ Leave me alone with boys for days and now you want me gone again fine.”

Lisa looks at her sorry as Jasmine goes back inside. I quickly become the center of attention. “ So are you sure? I mean letting her stare you down is a big thing.”

She remained unmoved and I remembered she did not know how to show use yes or no. It took only a few seconds to teacher and she shook her head up and down after I asked it again. “ Fine but think of her a moment. Yes, she is...” I paused to think of an accurate word that did not sound too romantic and I was not very successful. “ attracted to you but for how long? Is she able to provide food readily for you? How much risk to your life is there? What will others think or do around you? Those are questions me and Earl have to deal with. If she comes back in a few years then perhaps...” 

I felt breath on the back of my neck. I slowly turned worried and Jasmine slung her arms around me and squeezed hard. “ You are worried about me. I can tell.” 

All I could say was, “ Yes.” then she kissed me on the mouth. 

Then another Tommis interruptus. “ Hey Erik, Ms. Garreson is looking for you.”

Jasmine moves away slightly a little embarrassed and I was pissed off as I turned around. “ Dude, what the hell?” 

He stops in between the two dragons that were watching. “ Ms. Garreson wants to be sure we are all ready to leave in the morning.” 

I sighed. “ Make sure you say your goodbyes tonight to Jake, Tom. If you do not he will wait for you to return for many years.” 

The seriousness of my tone made the point instantly to Tom. He looks at Earl and Lisa before deciding to spend a little more time with Jake. Me and Jasmine soon were going back to the bunk house to pack our things.