Betrayed & Seduced (House of the Cat Book 6)
Author: Shelley Munro
Date: 2018-04-19 07:00:00+00:00

Betrayed & Seduced
by Shelley Munro

House of the Cat, book 6

Table of Contents

Introduction

A Crash Landing

The Undercover Warrant-taker

Time To Get The Gattoc In Order

Betrayal

Nanu Captures His Mate

Sweet Seduction

Consternation In The Gattoc

The Brother’s Arrival Causes Suspicion

Chobe Makes Plan A

A Matter Of Trust

Plan B Swings In To Action

Betrayal Yet Again

The Truth Will Out

Happy. Happy. Joy. Joy

Pies And Happiness

Excerpt – Snared by Saber

Excerpt – Interplanetary Love

About Shelley

Other Books By Shelley

Copyright Page

Introduction

A pilot on the run. A warrant-taker determined to make a capture. The mating-dance that threatens to destroy them both…

Warrant-taker Jazen Lav accepts one last assignment before she retires to follow her dreams. She’s hot on the trail of a runaway cyborg, but the path leads to the crew of the Indefatigable and they’re a tight-lipped bunch. Frustration steers her to an undercover gig as a nurse, which places her in the sights of the flirtatious Indy pilot.

Nanu left his home planet at a young age, missing the last crucial elements of his training before he hit adulthood. The inner beast he thought dead leaps to life on meeting Jazen, taking him by surprise and tossing him into confusion. His inner beast insists Jazen is his mate, but she’s trouble for him, trouble for his friends, trouble for his future.

Abduction and betrayal—not the best way to start a courtship, and that’s where the turmoil begins since danger stalks into the city with Nanu and Jazen directly in its sights…

A Crash Landing

Nanu scowled at the controls of the tender, the needle of the navigation unit flicking from side to side, testy as a grumpy shifter’s tail. The tender vibrated with unusual vigor as they flew high above a jagged mountain range.

“Something wrong?” Ransom Drake asked.

Nanu forced a smile despite his gut doing one of those Highland flings Camryn had described—a strange Earth dance.

“Nanu?” Ransom, the chieftain of the dragon shifters who lived on the planet of Narenda, prompted him for details Nanu didn’t want to deliver.

Instead, he scanned the pulsing, protesting instruments, willing them to revert to usual behavior. It wouldn’t do for something to go amiss during this flight since the dragons were their biggest customer.

Please, please even out.

Minutes ago, everything had appeared normal. Phrull, if he crashed with an important customer on board, he’d never hear the end of it from his friends who flew with him on the Indefatigable.

“Are we almost at the mine you spotted?” Ransom scanned the peaks far below them, unease tightening his broad shoulders, a pained frown etched into the face Nanu’s friend Kaya mooned over every time they visited Narenda.

“Yes, another five minutes flying and we should spot the mine. The scar in the mountain isn’t clear until you’re flying overhead.” Nanu studied the navigation unit with increasing unease. The directional needle continued to waver, and instinct told him the reading was no longer true. They were losing altitude even though the instruments showed otherwise.

“Why are we flying lower?” Ransom demanded. “We agreed to fly above the mountains, not skim them. The resonance from the Narendanite is pulling at my dragon. Are you trying to weaken me?”

“No,” Nanu snapped. “The instrument readings are correct but something is shonky. Phrull it. We are losing altitude. I’ll fly back to base and correct the problem with the navigational system.”

Without warning, Ransom white-knuckled the copilot’s chair. His face paled, and he started to hum, a discordant tune that prickled the hair at the back of Nanu’s neck.

Alarmed, Nanu gripped the controls and switched to manual. The tender bucked and plunged, throwing Nanu and Ransom against their harnesses. The beads on the end of Nanu’s dreads clacked together in a jangle that fit with Ransom’s crazy humming. Nanu flipped through the manual in his mind, pulse jittering as he struggled to correct the flight path and regain altitude.

“Come on. Come on!”

Nothing happened. If anything, the gravitational pressure sucked them closer to the mountain peaks.

Nanu checked Ransom. The big dragon shifter twitched in his seat, his eyes rolling. Phrull, this was not good. His weird humming increased to a high pitch that made Nanu’s ears ache.

Nanu jabbed the comm. “Alert. Alert. Kaya! You there?”

Despite Nanu using every bit of his strength, the controls didn't respond. Something or someone was drawing them closer to the land. Nanu gritted his teeth, biceps bulging as he fought the controls. The minerals in the rocks sparkled and drew his eye, reminding him of stars. He’d always enjoyed his flights over the Narenda mountains, never had a problem. Until today.

Kaya’s voice crackled through the comm, but her words made no sense.

“We’re crashing,” he shouted.

The sharp spine of the mountain peaks grew closer. Nanu scrutinized the ground. Ahead. Yes. It was the weird area the mystery persons had mined without permission, the area Ransom had been so eager to view he’d risked facing the perilous resonance the mountain emitted. They’d assumed flying over at a great height would keep Ransom safe.

They’d been wrong.

The comm crackled and died. They were level with the higher peaks now. Crap, could he keep the tender steady long enough to reach the huge, flat area of the mine? He, Kaya and Ry, their captain, had landed there the day before, so he knew the area was large enough for the tender.

His teeth clenched so tight his jaw hurt. His left hand raced over the controls as he attempted to guide the tender with brute force. It wouldn’t stop them from crashing but he might control the impact.

Ransom groaned and twitched. Too busy to worry about the dragon shifter now, he fought gravity. The tip of their tender wing clipped the mountain, flipping their vehicle into a wild spin. For a sec, Nanu gained control but a gust of wind sent them bouncing into another sheer peak. Metal struck rock in a pitchy shriek. They plummeted below the walls of the mining zone. No safe landing this time.

Nanu did everything in his power to avoid crashing, tried every trick he’d learned during his years as a pilot. Nothing worked.

They struck the ground hard. The impact flung Nanu against his harness hard enough to smack the air from his lungs. The tender scraped across the smooth stone and smashed into a wall of rock, coming to an abrupt halt at an uneven tilt, the engine roaring like a dragon in a temper. With a trembling, sweaty hand, Nanu switched off the power. Silence fell.

He groaned and dragged in a breath. It hurt, a pained throb reverberating through his skull. Lifeforce trickled down the side of his head, and his dreads obscured his vision. He unfastened his harness and wriggled free. A peek through the viewport showed him they’d been lucky, the wall of rock stopping them from plummeting down the side of the mountain. Instead, they’d landed in a natural bowl. It could’ve been worse. Assured that their tender wouldn’t be going anywhere without help, he checked on Ransom.

The dragon shifter was breathing. A good sign. Nanu shook Ransom’s shoulder, but the shifter didn’t budge and remained unconscious. At least that weird humming had ceased. That had been plain creepy.

Nanu tried the comm.

Nothing but static.

Sighing, he hoped Kaya had been paying attention and contacted Ry before Ry left with their other male friends on their boys-only excursion. They’d talked about this trip for cycles since they intended to hunt in feline form and live rough. A rest from women and babies, they’d told Nanu.

Nanu crawled through the crumpled remains of the tender and attempted to force the door. It creaked a protest and gave with a suddenness that took him by surprise.

Nanu toppled out, falling awkwardly. His leg bent the wrong way as he struck a rock. The bone cracked, the instant pain shifting his vision to white then black at the edges. The hard embrace of the ground forced the air from his laboring lungs, and it was the last thing he remembered.

Lights out. Nobody home.

Blacklight screened the mountain peaks and the vista below when Nanu regained consciousness. He dragged himself to a sitting position, and the pain in his leg almost made him black out again.

He couldn’t see Ransom from where he lay, but he presumed the dragon chieftain was still unconscious inside the tender. This close contact with the minerals in the rocks and the resonation might kill the dragon before help came. Damn, how had this easy jaunt gone so wrong? He and Kaya had serviced the vehicle before they’d left Viros. No one else had touched it, and the improvements they’d made had gone seamlessly.

Gryffnn, Ransom’s brother, had been expecting them back. He’d consult with Ry and also Niran, the leader of the Incorporeal race who lived in a symbiotic relationship with the dragon shifters. If Kaya hadn’t understood his call, the alarm would’ve gone up when they hadn’t returned. He’d wait and pray he hadn’t killed the dragon chief.

“Nanu. Nanu!” The chill on his arm alerted him to a presence rather than the insistent voice at his ear. His eyes popped open to discover one of the Incorporeal race leaning over him.

“You shouldn’t be here,” he murmured. “It’s dangerous.” Pirates and slave traders had laid traps in the mountains to catch unwary Incorporeals. Their rare abilities to fashion energy into tangible things was a valuable commodity for the unscrupulous.

“It was worth the risk,” the man said. “I volunteered. Where’s Ransom?”

“He’s in the tender and was unconscious the last time I saw him.”

“I’ll check on him after I help with your leg. I can’t fix it, but I can reduce the pain.”

The man placed his hands on Nanu’s leg, above where the bone jutted outward. The Incorporeal’s touch started as a faint chill, but the coldness grew icy and uncomfortable, darting downward to Nanu’s toes. A shiver raced through his veins. His frantic pulse eased as the cold from the Incorporeal’s hands deadened the throb of his injury.

“Better?”

“Thanks,” Nanu whispered, able to relax his muscles now that the worst of the pain had retreated.

“I’ll check on Ransom, then flash back. I’ll leave a directional beacon with you. Don’t switch it on until whitelight. Ry suggested this precaution because no one is conversant of the blacklight creatures living in the mountains.”

“Tell Ry there was a weird gravitational pull. It wasn’t there when we landed. He must take care when flying over the mine.”

“I will tell him,” the man promised. He flashed his hand, and a flask appeared. A loaf of bread and cheese settled beside it. “I will find Ransom now.”

“Come back to tell me you’re leaving. Want to make sure you get away safely,” Nanu ordered.

The man smiled faintly and squeezed his shoulder. “I will do that, my friend.”

The Incorporeal blinked from sight while Nanu noted their surroundings, casting out his senses for anything out of the ordinary. The blacklight was absolute, a trap for the unwary who didn’t realize they stood on a mountaintop. Not a single moon or a distant planet glowed in the skies. Not a wind blew. It was almost as if the mountains held their breath, waiting to counter the next move against them.

“Ransom is breathing, but he’s resonating. I’ve done what I can, but he’s fallen into a coma.”

“Resonating?”

“The noise he’s emitting,” the man explained, his white face and hair glowing in the blacklight. “The precious stones have poisoned him.”

Crap! He’d killed the dragon chieftain. “W-will he recover?”

“It’s difficult to say,” the Incorporeal said. “We’ll move him as soon as possible.”

“Can you transport him back now?”

“He’s too big for me to move. I don’t have enough power left to take either of you because I had difficulty locating you. We had no idea what we were facing or if the pirates had set Incorporeal traps in this region. Niran and Gryffnn asked for volunteers. I offered because I have no family ties. Help will come at first whitelight. I can describe the location, but it will be helpful if you start the locator beacon then.”

“Thank you. Tell them…tell them I tried my best. I-I…”

The man squeezed Nanu’s shoulder. “I have heard tales of your flying skill, my friend. No one blames you.”

“Nanu,” Nanu said.

“I am Seedric,” the Incorporeal offered. “First whitelight.”

Seedric faded away before his eyes, and Nanu issued a sigh at his ease of departure. At least he didn’t have Seedric’s welfare on his conscience too.

Nanu dozed, unable to find a comfortable spot. Nagging worry kept him from relaxing. What if Ransom didn’t regain consciousness? What would happen? The dragons were a secretive race, and he knew little of them, apart from the fact they were skilled in jewelry production and rich. Would they blame him?

Phrull, of course they would. He blamed himself.

As the whitelight pushed away the dark, Nanu set off the tracker beacon and crawled to the tender to check on Ransom, determination pushing him to reject the pain stabbing his limb. As he neared the door, the weird humming became audible. Rhythmic and more musical now, it sent shivers running through his veins.

Nanu had no chance of lifting himself through the entrance to see Ransom, but he figured if the dragon was humming, he remained alive.

Not long afterward, the purr of a tender had Nanu’s gaze scanning the skies. When it flew into sight, the tension seeped from him with a whoosh of relief.

He waved as the tender flew over them and circled to hover above him. The side door slid open, and he spotted Ry.

As the tender continued to hover, Ry, Jarlath, Shiloh and Ellard appeared in open doorway. Phrull, they’d canceled their hunting trip to help him. A harsh gasp of relief rushed past his dry lips. They’d come. The four feline shifters rappelled to the ground while Mogens, their medic and seer, frowned down at them. Ribbons of black flashed through his gray face, morphing his features and arms to a deep charcoal. A stretcher came down next, guided downward by Mogens.

Nanu closed his eyes. Mogens sensed things, long before they did, reading the truth in the clouds. A black Mogens meant trouble or worry. While if he appeared pale and white things were fine in Mogens’s world.

Ry reached him first, his tanned features and green eyes full of concern as he crouched beside him. “I hear your leg is broken.”

The feline shifter was his boss and his friend. His savior, although Ry didn’t realize this truth. Nanu and his late brother Yep had repaid Ry’s faith in them with their flying and mechanical skills, and after Yep’s death, Ry and the rest of the Indy crew had become his family.

“Get Ransom first. I’m worried about him. He’s still humming, and he didn’t answer me when I called out to him. He kept doing that freaky humming crap.”

Ellard and Shiloh, brothers from the planet Viros, ignored his plea to help the dragon shifter first. Ellard scooped him up with easy strength, his homely face bearing the same worry as Ry’s. The chill of Ellard’s replacement arm beneath Nanu’s butt pierced his trews before the stretcher took his weight. Ellard had lost his arm during the war with the House of Cawdor, and these days relied on the Incorporeal couple who lived at the palace to provide his ghostly limb.

Searing agony forced a groan past Nanu’s clenched lips, despite Ellard’s gentleness and Shiloh’s help. Crawling to Ransom had done him no favors, yet he’d had to check on the dragon.

“Sorry.” Shiloh, mate to the king and queen of Viros, grimaced. “Mogens will give you something for the pain once you’re on the tender.”

“What about Ransom?”

“Stow your whining,” Ellard snapped, and then Nanu knew the men were worried. Since Ellard had mated with Gweneth, his temper remained sweeter. This burst of impatience had become rare.

Ellard took one end of the stretcher and Shiloh the other, taking care not to jar his leg. It still hurt like a bitch, every minuscule shift jolting him as they carried him across the rough terrain of rocks. The whitelight caught the sparkle of precious gems, studded within the rocks, some of them valued by the dragons for their jewelry designs.

Nanu ignored the beauty to focus on the wreck of the tender and the gouge they’d left on the surface before they’d skidded to a stop near a wall of glittery rock.

Jarlath, brother to the king of Viros, followed Ry to the downed tender. They disappeared inside the crumpled vehicle. He saw nothing more since Mogens operated the lift for the stretcher, and Nanu rose upward.

Mogens guided the stretcher inside the tender, ribbons of white swirling across his black features. He’d obviously worried but appeared calmer with Nanu aboard.

Not him. Nanu’s gut churned and danced. He’d relax once Ransom made it to the ship and they transported him to his clan. He had to regain consciousness.

“You said Ransom is humming?”

“Gryffnn.” Nanu moved his head too fast, jerking his leg. He groaned and cried out as Mogens probed his injury. When the agony allowed him to breathe again, he rotated his head in a controlled manner to glimpse Gryffnn. “You shouldn’t be here. It’s too dangerous.”

“Ransom is my brother,” Gryffnn said. “He’d do the same for me.”

“He’s not in great shape. I’m so sorry. Kaya and I had the tender in tiptop shape. It shouldn’t have malfunctioned.”

“Not your fault,” Gryffnn informed him. “Mechanical failure happens. It’s why we prefer to fly rather than ride in machines.”

Mogens did something to his leg, and the pain…the pain stabbed with the force of a rusty knife, sending his vision white at the edges. Another tug had him screaming like a girl, and it was the last thing he recalled of the crash site.

* * * * *

Viros city, Viros

Yes! The recruitment post on the links showed her the perfect way to infiltrate the close-knit group she’d only been able to scrutinize from a distance. Without hesitation, Jazen applied and contacted Azarious about organizing fake references.

“It will be done. Your alias?”

“Jazen Yelhsa.” Jazen was real—her only true name—while Yelhsa was the handle of her first kill. A reminder not to get cocky since over-confidence led to mistakes. In this assignment, she couldn’t afford to fail. Her period of indenture had ended, and she needed the funds from these last few contracts to secure her future. She intended to buy a small catering business on a, as yet, mystery planet since she hadn’t decided where to settle.

“You have a lead?”

“Yes, but it has proved difficult getting close to my target. They have connections to the royal family in Viros.”

“Contact me if you need further aid. Send your usual reports.”

Jazen hit send, confident her application would stand scrutiny. She slipped her comm to her jacket pocket and scanned the occupants of the grubby bar on Second Street.

A shifty trader wearing a patch over his left eye, a tired waitress and a bored cyborg bartender. Not surprising given the time of the cycle and the dark, dingy interior. Straw covered the floor, and Jazen spotted a few dried flowers amongst the straw stalks. Someone had attempted to make the place smell better, but rotations of grime and spilled drinks plus uncaring customers had taken their toll. Five tables sat amongst the straw and a sprinkling of mismatched chairs. No modern float tables in this joint.

None of the customers paid attention to her, and she relaxed, deciding to linger and complete her Narenda investigation. She’d claimed a corner table with a view of the door and settled in to her research.

Jazen learned dragon shifters ran the planet and, until recently, hadn’t welcomed visitors. The leader had relaxed control of the borders although visitors required permits to journey to the verdant lands.

She’d already discovered the crew of the Indefatigable visited regularly. Approaching any of the crew at the castle had proved impossible. The womenfolk—Captain Coppersmith’s woman and the rest of the female crew—always had bodyguards trailing them when they left the castle. The male crew was equally elusive and the seer that traveled with them was plain creepy with his skin tones that changed from white to black and mixtures in between. She assumed the changes occurred due to the seer’s moods, but that was a guess.

For a dozen cycles, she’d trailed the Indy crew. She’d researched them and tried to discover more about the escaped cyborg, last seen on Ornum. Rumor said the cyborg had left the planet with her charge, and they’d departed onboard the Indy. A child-minding cyborg.

Jazen snorted. Raised to be nurturing, child-minding cyborgs shouldn’t have the skills to evade recapture. This one had, and it had sparked the ire of the corporation who owned her. Their investigations, to date, had proved fruitless. Not wanting to give other indentured cyborgs hope, they’d put out a contract for her capture. They wanted her alive and intended to make an example of her, then disassemble for her parts, after studying her programming for faults, of course.

Amme Vanak had left Ornum and after two sightings on the planet of Ibrox, she’d vanished. She wasn’t on Ibrox, which meant she’d left on the same ship because she hadn’t purchased a ticket to leave the planet. Her whereabouts now…undetermined.

Jazen tapped the fingers of her right hand on the sticky tabletop.

The waitress approached, a drag in her step. “Can I get ya a drink? Bartender says you have to eat or drink or ya have ta leave.”

“I’ll have an aloc. In a bottle,” she added, aware of what some unscrupulous bar owners did to their cask drinks. “I’ll open the bottle myself. How is the food here?”

“Better than what ya’d expect. Bar owner’s wife likes ta cook.”

“What do you recommend?”

“Meat pie.”

Jazen tilted her head, setting her straight black hair swishing against her cheek. She never passed up an excuse to research the food prepared by other cooks and few places did pies. “I’ll take a pie.”

The waitress nodded, relief clear in her reddened blue eyes. Jazen mentally counted her coins. Yeah, she had sufficient to tip. She knew this woman’s life, knew the helplessness, the futility of working long hours.

It was never, ever enough to escape.

She’d watched her mother live this life and struggle to raise two hungry children. This woman had it better than her mother, although the waitress mightn’t realize there was worse.

Jazen had seen and taken note not to fall into the same trap as her mother. She’d calculated the odds and taken her chances, begging to go with Azarious when he’d offered a way out for her younger brother. No lying on her back to entertain strange men with peculiar body parts and weird sexual habits. When she slept with a man, it was her choice. She controlled the situation, not her lover of the moment.

Her comm beeped to indicate an incoming message. A slow smile bloomed, satisfaction filling her with elation. A step closer to locating and capturing the missing cyborg. She tapped back a quick message. Yes, she was in Viros and willing to conduct a comm interview at the onset of blacklight. Yes, she had references and would send them at once.

The confirmation came secs later.

All systems go.

The waitress arrived with her drink and the pie. She set them on the table in front of Jazen and limped to the other side of the bar to serve new arrivals. The six young men wore black uniforms, their close-cropped hair proclaiming them servicemen. A military ship had arrived to replenish their stores and give their crew furlough. The bars and brothels of the lower Viros streets would ring with drunken foolery this eve. An attraction for every lowlife in the vicinity to tease or steal money from servicemen with flush pockets and voracious appetites after journeying throughout the solar system for a quarter of a rotation.

Jazen opened her drink and after wiping the top, drank straight from the bottle. Once she finished her pie, she’d wander the market to learn if any of the Indy crew ever left the castle alone.

She’d scored an interview. Luck might favor her twice in one cycle.

The Undercover Warrant-Taker

Four cycles after the crash, the pain in Nanu’s leg had subsided to a manageable ache. Mogens had weaned him off the painkilling meds but refused to allow him to move around for at least another three cycles. He’d ordered Nanu to relax and heal.

Bored and cranky at the inactivity, Nanu reached for the bell by the side of his gel-bed. He heard a feminine shout, the register a hairsbreadth from rage. He grinned in anticipation. Stomping footsteps heralded an arrival, and Nanu composed his features into a pained grimace.

His sole entertainment was riling his friend and shipmate Kaya Ignatius, who was acting as his nurse. A job she loathed since he had her running around like an underpaid maid.

“What do you want now?” she snarled, her eyes flashing salvos of wrath, and her straight blue hair flying back to reveal one pointed ear. “Isn’t it enough you ruined my date with Ransom? I was getting somewhere with him. He’d asked me out for a drink, and you’ve put him in a coma. It was going to be—”

“The two of us,” Nanu broke in, recognizing her speech by rote after hearing it many, many times while stuck in this bedchamber. “How is Ransom?”

“He’s stopped humming.”

Grata, not an improvement. If he was humming, he was alive. Fear and guilt writhed in Nanu’s gut, making his hunger flee. He licked lips that had gone dry. “Is he…is he dead?”

“No, you haven’t killed him off yet.” Kaya’s sly regard told Nanu she was enjoying his unease, even if Ransom’s illness concerned her. “He’s still in a coma. Mogens isn’t certain of the cause and the Incorporeal medics are at a loss. They’ve decided all they can do is make sure he remains comfortable and pump sustenance into him.” She paused, her blue eyes serious now. “Gryffnn has researched the phenomenon. It’s happened twice in the dragons’ history. Both dragons died.”

“Phrull,” Nanu muttered, guilt kicking him again. He should’ve refused to take Ransom on the jaunt over the mountains, but he’d been so insistent. If someone was stealing their precious stones, he’d wanted details, information to enable him to stomp on the thieves. Now, he was in a coma, the prognosis scary bad. Nanu replayed the fubar on a loop, going over different steps he might’ve attempted.

“Yeah.” She studied her short, bright red nails with a knitted brow. “I’ll never get to fly with a dragon. I’ve dreamed of it, soaring through the skies, the wind in my hair.”

Nanu let out a snort. “A dragon only flies with his mate. Dragon flying was never a choice for you.”

Kaya sniffed. “Never say never. Once I’d worked my wiles on him, he’d morph to that Earth flexible clay stuff. No man can resist my charms.”

Nanu coughed. It was either that or howl with mirth. Kaya wasn’t the easiest woman. She was a tough warrior and not one to cross. Strong men attracted her, yet she stuck to losers who let her tromp all over them.

Kaya glared at him, aware he was laughing at her. “What do you want?”

“A drink.”

Her gaze slid to the jug of nectar juice within easy reach.

“A hot drink,” he explained, struggling to keep his amusement contained.

Kaya stared at him for a moment longer and stomped from his chamber.

She arrived ten marks later with a steaming pot of tay.

“Oh, I’d prefer kafe.”

“Mogens informed me the tay holds healing properties. He added extra herbs and sweetened it with yenoh.” Her eyes narrowed to slits. “You’ll drink it if I have to pour it down your throat.”

“I’m injured,” Nanu said. “You’re meant to be my nurse, not my jailor.”

Kaya cursed and stormed off. He waited until she had time to reach the end of the passage before an evil smile curled across his lips. He picked up the bell again and rang it.

Ting-a-ling. Ting-a-ling.

A shriek of rage resounded down the passage, and Kaya appeared in the doorway as he rang the bell a third time.

“Put down that fraggin’ bell before I shove it down your throat,” she ordered.

“But my leg is itchy. I need help to scratch it before I go crazy. And I’m hungry.” He formed his lips into a pout and waited for the fallout.

“Food? You’re eating more than Jannike and she has a good excuse since she’s having twins.”

“She informs me she is having one child, and she will never go through this again. I spoke to her on the comm not long after whitelight began.”

Kaya darted closer to the bed and poked him in the belly. “You’ll get fat if you’re not careful. You’re already lazy.”

“I’m bored, and I get hungry when I’m bored.”

“I offered to play cards with you.”

“You cheat,” Nanu said. “Please, my leg is itchy.”

Kaya eyed his face, then his groin. “It had better not be your third leg.”

“The support bandages to fix my leg are making it itchy. I need a scratchy tool.”

“Ask Mogens. And I don’t cheat. I’m lucky in love and cards.”

“Not so lucky with Ransom,” Nanu shot back.

Kaya glowered at him, her right fist—no, make that both fists—curling at her sides.

“You wouldn’t hit an injured man when he’s down.”

“Then don’t be mean.”

“Are you arguing again?” Mogens asked, gliding into the chamber. This cycle, his face was pearly white—a sign of contentment and happiness.

A woman dressed in a white uniform strode into his chamber behind Mogens. Nanu stared at her curvy form beneath the uniform, her straight chin-length black hair, her blue, blue eyes and creamy pale skin. His lungs burned, and he dragged in a breath. It was full of honey and herbs. A shiver went through him and every muscle in his body locked as he continued to gawp at the woman.

“He keeps ringing his stupid bell,” Kaya complained. “I haven’t even had time to do my training this morn because he keeps interrupting me.”

“I believe Gryffnn is waiting for you in the training room,” Mogens said. “Before you go, this is Jazen Yelhsa. Gryffnn has hired her to nurse Ransom and Nanu.”

“I’m going to kiss Gryffnn,” Kaya declared. “Nanu is impossible. Impossible, I tell you. Nice to meet you, Jazen. I’ll see you ’round. Good luck. You’ll need it.” Kaya made her escape before the new arrival replied.

“Nanu no longer requires painkillers. All you need to do is make him comfortable and take him his meals,” Mogens said.

“I’m sure I won’t have any problems,” Jazen said in a husky voice.

“Nanu will be on his best behavior.” A ribbon of black crept across Mogens hand. A second crawled up his neck and across his chin and nose. “Or I will be unhappy. Jazen comes highly qualified, and we do not wish to scare her away.”

Nanu relaxed against his propped-up pillow, heeding Mogens’s warning. Not that he’d try to scare away this woman. A nurse. Once, he’d presumed his inner beast would wake for a warrior, someone strong like Kaya or Jannike. Someone like Camryn.

How could this be? Fleeing the planet of Indra had doomed him to live alone without a mate. He’d had his brother for company, and that had been enough.

Yep had since died, but the crew of the Indy had helped him through his loss. He had true friends. Loyal friends. Friends who cared about him and his wellbeing.

He cleared his throat. “Pleased to meet you, Jazen.”

She didn’t understand how pleased.

Yet.

His inner beast stirred, stretching and flexing its muscles as if he were waking from a long slumber, which wasn’t far from the truth. Except how? His inner beast had withered and died.

Now, it seemed he’d been wrong, and joy filled him at finding his mate.

“Nanu.” She inclined her head, her hair spilling forward to conceal her face. In the process, she revealed the pale vulnerability of her neck.

He swallowed, willing away the longing. Too soon. He had the luxury of time since she was attending him. If he were on Indra, he’d snatch her and hide her away in his specially prepared courtship gattoc until the mating locked into place, and she accepted him.

“Nanu, is there anything I can get you before I take Jazen to meet Ransom?”

“My leg is itching, and it’s driving me crazy.”

Mogens beamed, his smile a blast of white in his already pale face. “Ah, a good sign. You are healing. I believe I have a salve to do the trick. I shall also bring you something to keep your mind busy.”

Jazen exited his chamber with Mogens. Interesting. She moved with a soldier’s ease, silent on her feet, with fluid, confident steps. Her trim body appeared strong and contrasted with the innocence portrayed by her up-tilted nose and soft pink lips.

He wriggled against his backrest and closed his eyes. As he often did, he retreated to his favorite memories. His visit with the Indy crew to Camryn’s home planet of Earth. He recalled the teasing rhyme Olivia Polo had sung to her brother and Amme, revamping it for his own fantasy purposes.

Nanu and Jazen, sitting in a gattoc. K. I. S. S. I. N. G.

He grinned, pleased with the mind pictures, except—he altered his fantasy—they were doing much more than kissing.

* * * * *

Jazen followed Mogens, paying close attention to everything he told her of her patients. The dragon shifter presented no trouble. All she needed to do was check his condition and keep him clean and comfortable.

Nanu, her other patient, was the one who offered more value to her mission. Her comm buzzed, and she checked the screen. Her brother. Again. She pushed the silence button and found Mogens regarding her quizzically.

“Do you need to answer that?”

“I’ll attend to the message later,” she said. “I am enrolled with several agencies, and they send me notifications of assignments.”

“We’ve been rolling Ransom daily and massaging his muscles. He’s a large being, and you will need help to shift him. I will aid you with the first rubdown now so you understand my methods.”

Jazen barely maintained her impassive expression. Oh, she was no stranger to massage since her mother had done a stint in the brothel. As a point of difference, to compete against the neighboring businesses, they’d offered the service. With her mother half out of her brain with vroom—an addictive liquor—for most of the time, the massage part of the services had fallen to her.

A lucky break, since she and Chobe had met Azarious, the man who had offered them a way out and trained them as warrant-takers.

“Tom-cycle, when you need to rotate Ransom, call one of the security guards. They will aid you.”

“That seems straightforward.” Jazen itched to start her questioning even though experience warned her it was too soon. She had to phrase her curiosity carefully because the crew of the Indy were the only lead she’d found.

It was as if the cyborg had vanished into the mist. Of course, irreparable damage sending her offline might be a factor. Or someone might have captured the valuable cyborg as a personal slave.

The cyborg Amme was out there somewhere, and she had to deliver. She had to. Most warrant-takers didn’t last as long as she had, and she worried her luck might run out before she put her retirement plans into action.

Aware of Mogens’s quizzical gaze, she jerked her mind off her warrant-taker duties. “What is the best way to shift him?”

“We roll him.” Mogens studied the unconscious shifter. “He’s so big that it’s not practical to lift him. Ah, here is Tobias now.”

Together, with the aid of a dragon shifter, they moved Ransom and massaged his naked large body—his arms and shoulders, his back, buttocks, thighs and calves. A hint of dragon scales showed beneath his skin on his shoulder blades and that part of his skin felt more abrasive to her fingertips. They rolled him again and repeated the process.

Her eyes widened as his cock filled and lengthened. “Oh.”

“One way of discerning he isn’t dead,” Mogens said drily. “Ignore that part of him. It will become flaccid soon.”

Jazen grimaced at the shifter’s groin and ignored the security dragon’s sly amusement, clear in his slanted eyes.

When they’d finished and his naked body hid beneath the lightweight covers, Mogens angled to her. “I’m worried about him. He’s losing weight, despite the nutrition we’re pumping into him. I’m at a loss as to what to do next. I’m encouraging his friends and family to visit and talk to him, because I’ve learned unconscious patients have cognitive responses, even if they can’t communicate. Have you heard that?”

“Yes,” Jazen lied without a blink, falsehoods second-nature to her after years of experience. “I chat with my patients as a matter of course. They respond well to cheerful conversation.”

“Excellent. I must replenish my stock of salves and potions, and I wish to do a cloud reading. I’ll leave the patients in your care. You will find me in my rooms, should you need my aid.”

With a wave, Mogens swept away in a swirl of his white robes. An interesting man. She’d never met a being of his race. His skin changed color from black to white and hovered in between the two shades. No doubt she’d learn the meaning behind the changes. She eyed him until he disappeared.

It wouldn’t do to take him or his friends at face value. During her research, she’d learned a thing or two about the Indy crew and their presumed relationship with the royal family of Viros. They were all soldiers and skilled in warfare. No, she mustn’t underestimate them. That way lay disaster.

A bell tinkled in Nanu’s chamber. She jogged in that direction and the bell ceased its clamor when she entered.

“Ah, there you are.” Nanu’s amber-brown gaze gleamed with naughtiness. “I’m hungry.”

“Mogens said you must not put on weight.”

Nanu’s good humor dispersed, his scowl accentuating his slanted almond-shaped eyes. “I am not fat.” He whipped off his shirt to display a muscular chest with defined pecs and acres of bronzed skin, many shades darker than her own pale complexion. His stomach appeared as iron-hard as his biceps and pecs. “Take back your words.”

Jazen blinked, mesmerized by his masculine strength. “Pardon?”

“Tell me I don’t have a flabby stomach.” Mischief brightened his countenance, and it was his twinkle that jolted her from her lust-induced haze.

“You don’t have a fat belly. You must spend many marks of each cycle training.”

Nanu settled himself more comfortably. “Ry insists on us staying fighting fit.”

“Who is Ry?” She’d take whatever information he offered and reconfirm what she’d already learned.

“Ryman Coppersmith, captain of the Indefatigable. My boss.”

Jazen tried to ignore the gleam in his eyes and his intriguing hair and rushed into her next question. “What do you do when you’re not lying around in bed?”

“I have a broken leg.”

“Yes.”

“It’s time to rub on the speed-healing balm. No one has applied it today.”

“Very well. Let me find the balm and clean restorative bandages.” Thank the goddess she had to collect the supplies from a separate storage chamber.

She needed to regroup.

Something about Nanu made sex jump to the forefront, and the glimpse of his torso…well, she craved a touch, wanting to test the strength in his muscles. In fact, if she’d ventured close enough to run her fingers over his flesh, licking and nibbling might have been the next logical step.

But no. The job came first.

Jazen gave her head a hard shake, then scanned the message Chobe had sent.

I have a chance to buy a house. It has long been Sergy’s dream to have her own home and somewhere safe for Raffey to play. Can you lend me the currency? I am short and need a loan.

Another message had arrived after the first.

New plan. Don’t need a loan now.

Jazen groaned. Chobe and his plans. He’d better not take a loan from a market shark. She sent back a quick comm.

What do you intend to do?

When no message bounced back, she grabbed a roll of bandages and scanned the labels of the different salves. Ah, healing salve. In her line of business, a healing salve would come in handy—if it worked as Mogens indicated. Perhaps she’d liberate these items once she discovered the information she required to capture the cyborg. The balm would prove useful even when she retired from active duties.

She sucked in a huge breath before she re-entered the chamber, told herself to ignore her interest in Nanu and do her job, before she sailed back into his presence. Her next breath contained a hint of herbs and forest greenery, and she smiled as memories of the long cycles of training, high in the mountains assailed her.

“You’re pretty when you’re happy.” The man smiled at her again, a wide and friendly beam, and she found her gaze straying to his naked chest. Muscle packed his body. She suspected he’d be taller than her. Her fingertips tingled with a crazy urge to stroke those bulging muscles to test their hardness. She reached before her brain gave her permission.

Appalled, she wiped her expression clean and jerked her hand to her side. Back to the job. “Can I pull back the covers to check your leg?”

“It would be my pleasure,” he purred.

Jazen froze at the sensual heat in his amber eyes. No. No. No! She forced herself to move, to draw back the covers and to adapt a nurse-type mien. The rest of his body was as finely formed as his chest and arms. Strength and toned muscles. Unbidden, her gaze darted to his groin. Instead of the normal loose, baggy underthings she and her brother wore, his clothes cupped and highlighted his masculinity.

“Where did you get your clothes?”

“I picked them up during my travels. I find them comfortable. Do they entice you?”

She ignored the question and removed the clasp fastening at the top of the bandage. Taking care not to jolt Nanu’s leg, she unwound the dressing. A sharp tang rose to her nose.

“What is that scent?”

“Peppermint.”

“I have never encountered the aroma.”

“Mogens collects healing plants wherever we travel,” Nanu said.

“Do you enjoy journeying to new territories?”

Nanu shrugged. “We go where the work is.”

“Do you have a favorite place?”

“We’re based on Viros,” Nanu said. “That’s home now.”

He hadn’t answered the question. Instead, he tilted his head and stared at her. The angle of his head, the masculine confidence, shoved at her memory. She’d crossed paths with him somewhere. The where would come to her, eventually. “Have we met?”

“From which planet do you hail?”

“Grumseics.” She didn’t offer more information. Standard procedure of anyone in her business and drummed into her by her trainer. Perhaps he’d received the same training. Had she seen him at one of the training camps? No, his distinctive hair. She’d recall that because the style was memorable.

“That’s a cold, gloomy place to live.” He broke the silence between them. “Do you visit home often?”

“No. Do you have much pain in your leg?”

“Thanks to Mogens’s treatments, my leg is healing fast. I’ll be back at work soon.”

“Work?”

“We have a contract with the dragons.”

“I see.” She hadn’t discovered that, yet her information web had never failed in the past. “Do you work on Narenda then?”

“For several cycles every quarter.”

She required more information. “What do you do for the dragons?”

“I can’t discuss the details.”

She pursed her lips, grudgingly respecting his loyalty and discretion even as it stymied her mission. The healing balm was the source of the peppermint, the scent wafting up to her when she opened the tub. Jazen dipped her finger into it and steeled herself to touch Nanu.

The first contact of skin against skin was every bit as bad as she’d feared. Something about this man called to her. Her nostrils quivered as peppermint and manly musk filled each breath. Despite the urge to linger and sigh over him, she forced her hands to make measured and practical strokes while trying not to press too hard on his injury.

“You’re fantastic at that.” Lazy humor lurked in his husky tone, although she didn’t risk a glance at his bold features and way-too-attractive face.

“Doing my job. How did you break your leg?”

“The tender I was piloting crashed.”

“So you’re not a hot-shot pilot?” she teased.

“It was an accident. I’d give my left nut for it not to have happened. Ransom is in a coma because of the crash.”

He’d gone from lazy charm to icy hauteur in secs flat. Interesting. “Where do you work when you’re not on Narenda?”

Nanu relaxed a fraction. “It depends on the contract. We try to limit our time away from Viros now that Ry has children. Camryn and the twins come with us on the short trips.”

“You are on first-naming terms with your employer?”

“Ry might be captain, but he’s family too. The entire crew has a share of the Indefatigable and we all have a say in the contracts we accept.”

“That’s unusual,” she said, her hands stilling.

“It works. You ask a lot of questions.”

Frag it. Raising suspicions wasn’t the way she wanted to start this assignment. “Making conversation.” Jazen wound the healing bandage around his limb, fastened the closure and stepped away.

“How long have you been a nurse?”

“Several rotations now,” she answered.

“Do you enjoy the work?”

“Meeting new people and traveling to different planets and moons is fun. It’s a challenge.” As usual, the lies flowed off her tongue, but for the first time, they made her uncomfortable. She shoved away the attack of guilt.

Chobe. She had to complete this contract to raise the funds to lend to Chobe and step closer to her ambition to run her own business. Hopefully, Chobe wouldn’t do anything stupid and go to money-lenders. Of course, she’d lend her brother the currency. She didn’t need much to survive, and Azarious had already tried to talk her in to staying now that her ten-rotation contract had ended.

“What are you thinking about?” Nanu asked, his head cocking in alertness. “You’ve gone pale.”

“I need food,” she said. “I haven’t eaten this morn.”

“Eat,” Nanu ordered. “I’m not going anywhere.”

Jazen scooped up the dirty healing bandage plus the tub of balm, glad of her creditable excuse to escape. “You have your bell, should you need me.”

“I won’t hesitate to use it,” he assured her.

Time To Get The Gattoc In Order

Two cycles later

Nanu studied his friends, glad of a distraction from his craving for Jazen. His body cried out for her, his dreads vibrating enough to rattle the beads decorating the ends. His gums ached and his cock rose to prominence, ready for mating every time she entered his chamber. Worst of all, the compulsion to get his courtship gattoc in order was driving him crazy.

He’d have to come clean with his friends because the nesting instincts meant finality for him and Jazen. Without her, he would decline, his inner beast desperate for the satiation of sex with the one he’d chosen as mate.

His friends—Ry in particular—would understand, but they’d ask questions, and Kaya would tease him unmercifully. He clenched and unclenched his hands, forcing his mind to focus.

“What is your opinion of Jazen?” he asked, trying to keep his tone casual.

Camryn frowned, as did Kaya, and Nanu’s gut bucked in alarm. He wanted his friends to approve of his future mate because he hated to envision a life away from his adopted family and Viros.

“She asks a lot of questions,” Mogens replied first. “Some of them dip into nosiness.”

Kaya puffed out a breath. “Yes! It’s almost as if she’s seeking information about one or all of us.”

“I ask her questions in response,” Nanu said, disloyalty swelling inside him because a tiny part of him doubted the woman his inner beast craved. One of them had to be levelheaded and reasonable, though, and until the beast prevailed, that had to be him. “That usually makes her stop. She is close-mouthed about her past and doesn’t even discuss her earlier patients in generalities. That’s strange, right?”

Ry scowled. “I checked her references myself. Why is she raising your suspicions? What questions is she asking?”

“She wants to discuss our adventures and what we did before arriving on Viros. She asks about the people we’ve met and who is on the crew.” A muscle in Nanu’s jaw twitched and a trace of disloyalty had him hesitating. No, she might present a danger to the crew—his friends. He continued. “Will she meet them all? Are they all professional warriors?”

“She asked me similar questions,” Kaya said.

“Me too,” Camryn added.

Ry strode to the chamber door and peered into the passage. “Mogens, is there a way to keep her busy with Ransom while we talk in private?”

“I mentioned bathing Ransom,” Mogens said.

Nanu attempted to restrain his growl and failed. His dreads vibrated hard enough to rattle his beads.

His friends studied him in surprise.

“You haven’t fallen for her?” Kaya asked.

Nanu tried for impassive and judging by the concern in his friends, he failed. “That is something else I wish to discuss.”

Mogens stalked to the window and peered out at the sky. A ribbon of black seeped into Mogens’s cheek as he faced them again. “I will speak with Jazen and organize several tasks to keep her busy. Bad omens. I must consult the clouds.”

“As a precaution, we could ask a favor from one of the Incorporeals. Get them to place a communication bubble around Nanu’s chamber to halt eavesdropping. They might grant us this boon if we explain the circumstances,” Camryn suggested.

“I will speak to Niran,” Ry said. “You’d better comm Jannike and have her standing by for our discussion. She should have a say in our upcoming work schedule even if she can’t leave the palace.”

Ry reappeared with Seedric, the Incorporeal who had found Nanu after the crash, and he set up a privacy bubble for them, that somehow allowed them to still speak with Jannike. Nanu lacked understanding of how the race managed their magic, but they were excellent allies.

A three-dimensional figure of Jannike flickered into prominence, and it was almost like seeing the statuesque blonde in person.

“Whoa!” Kaya blurted. “I’ve seen huts smaller than you.”

“Yes. Yes! I can’t see my feet.” Crankiness radiated from Jannike as she waddled, her enormous stomach drawing the gaze. “I require help to don my shoes. My temper is nasty. Please, do not toy with me this cycle, or I will exert my queenly powers and toss you in the palace dungeon.”

Kaya sniggered, and Jannike’s gaze switched to deadly.

“I understand your tension and uncertainty. It won’t be long now,” Camryn soothed, stepping in to calm the stormy atmosphere.

“Twelve more cycles, according to Mogens.” Jannike’s grumpy expression didn’t ease. “I am counting the cycles.”

“Twelve to fourteen cycles,” Mogens corrected.

“We’re ready,” Ry said. “Thank you, Seedric.”

The Incorporeal pressed his palms together and inclined his head. “You are welcome. The barrier will last until blacklight.” He blinked out, leaving them alone.

“What’s going on, Nanu?” Ry asked.

“I believe Jazen is my mate. No, she is my mate since my body is changing and I have an urge to prepare my gattoc.”

Ry snapped to attention. “Your mate?”

“What is a gattoc?” Camryn asked.

“A mating custom of the Indra race. Essentially, it is a mating bower—a private place where a couple cement their bond.”

Curiosity blazed in his friends, and Nanu sighed.

“I haven’t told you much about Indra, my home planet and why we left. You accepted Yep and me as crew and became friends, and you’ve never asked for details. You let our work record stand. We appreciated that more than anything.”

“We’re not Jazen,” Kaya informed him.

“I understand, which is why her constant questions strike me as something more.” He closed his eyes briefly and centered his mind. Talking about his brother still hurt. “Yep and I left after a powerful commander zapped us with a death sentence. A wealthy corporation runs Indra, and they wield immense power. Yep was friendly with the wife of one of the corporation leaders. When Yep learned the leader beat his wife and tortured her, he agreed to help her leave. Her escape upset the leader. He discovered Yep and I helped her leave Indra and manufactured charges against us. He had her murdered and accused us of the atrocity. The charges stand. I am a wanted man with a price on my head.”

“Good to hear.” Kaya winked. “If you ring for me with that stupid bell thing, I can dob you in.”

“Kaya,” Jannike said in her imperious queen tone. “What else, Nanu?”

“You’re no fun now that you’re the queen,” Kaya complained. “The power has gone to your head.”

Camryn raised her right hand. “Shush, we need to finish this discussion before Jazen realizes we’re conducting a meeting. Continue, Nanu.”

“The atmosphere on Indra is different. It has special properties that start the mating process. When a male of my planet reaches maturity, they physically change. A compatible female will awaken the beast inside them. Once this happens, the male experiences an urge to prepare the gattoc in readiness to capture their mate.”

“What changes?” Mogens demanded, his eyes alight with interest.

“Jazen is your mate?” Ry asked. “You’re positive?”

Camryn scowled. “Capture?”

The questions came quick and fast. Nanu understood Camryn’s distaste because the Indy crew had abducted her to train their hell-horse. Her capture hadn’t gone well until she and Ry had become mates and she’d forgiven him. “Yes, unfortunately Jazen has awakened my beast since her arrival. The changes…” He paused and wrinkled his nose. “My hair transforms to tendrils and becomes a weapon, capable of choking a creature to death in close combat. My teeth become sharp and I will feed on her lifeforce at times.” He hesitated, then decided on full disclosure. “My cock develops extra ridges that will help to stimulate my mate during sex, I lock in place to ensure a fruitful union.”

“Fruitful union?” Kaya stroked one pointed ear, intrigue written in her features. “Lock in place? How? For how long?”

“Long enough to ensure the mating is successful,” Nanu said, taking the easiest explanation.

Kaya cocked her head. “Are you a vampire?”

“I am not.”

“Are you taught this from a young age?” Mogens asked.

“When we reach the age of twelve rotations, the males of the family or sometimes the wider tribe, take us on a retreat and teach us about what to expect. Each rotation they teach us more. My training wasn’t complete when Yep and I left, so I’m clueless about some of the process.”

“This Jazen is your mate,” Ry repeated.

“Yes,” Nanu said, his lips twisting. Trust him to make life difficult for all of them. “I don’t trust her constant questioning, but she has awakened my beast.”

Jannike absently stroked her belly. “What happens if Jazen doesn’t want you?”

“She does,” Nanu stated with certainty. “She sneaks peeks at me. I’ve caught her doing it. Besides, kissing furthers the mating. I have glans beneath my tongue, which become inflamed.”

“You will not kiss or touch that woman until we investigate further,” Ry ordered.

“That advice worked well for you, captain,” Mogens pointed out. “I warned you about contact with Camryn.”

Camryn blushed and Ry flashed a quick grin before his features settled into serious again. “Kaya can keep an eye on you until we make a final decision.”

“What? No!” Kaya burst out. “No, I won’t do it. He rings that stupid bell incessantly. If I have to babysit him, I’ll commit murder.”

“I heard the reward on my head is dead or alive.” Nanu’s lip curled into a grimace. “I’m more valuable alive, but you should receive currency for my dead body, if you take me to Indra. My family might even retrieve my body and give me a proper pyre.” His wistful tone didn’t go unnoticed by his friends. He had a good life, doing something he loved with his friends, yet he missed his previous life. Not that his family had approved of his and Yep’s actions.

“Nanu! You’ve written your last letter, the same as the rest of us,” Camryn chided. “If you’ve stated your wishes, we’ll follow them without deviation. We promised each other—a blood oath.”

Nanu smiled, more naturally this time. “I apologize. My inner beast is making me retrospective. Honestly, I’d do the same thing again. My people might capture our mates, but once the mating takes, we treat our partners like queens.” For an instant he recalled the corporation man and his abuse of his wife. He had come from a different planet.

“Your confinement to the sick room presents a problem. Will your inner beast become uncontrollable?” Ry asked.

“I—”

“Nanu’s leg has healed beautifully. I believe he can now exercise his limb, so he won’t need a bell for much longer and can leave his chamber.”

“We’ll investigate the woman from Viros. Lynx and Shiloh have contacts who might have heard of her,” Jannike offered.

Ry struck his finger against his right thigh. His black trews rustled with the rhythmic taps. “I’ll conduct investigations from here too. If we’ve all noticed her questions, something is stinky about her.”

“Fishy,” Camryn said. “You have the wrong Earth-speak.”

“Whatever,” Ry said with a shrug, going with more Earth slang.

“What if the information comes too late?” Nanu asked. “I can’t switch off my beast at will.”

“If you promise to let Mogens have control of that stupid bell I’d volunteer to act as your cock-block,” Kaya said cheekily. “I’d be happy to loll around and get chamber service while supervising you.”

“I can’t wait until I’m fully fit.” Nanu glared at Kaya. “We can spar, so I can drop you on your head.”

“You can try,” Kaya snapped.

“Nanu,” Mogens said, fingers of black writhing across his cheeks and jaw, showing his unhappiness with the conversation. “I can’t believe she is spying on us. Her nursing capabilities are adequate. She is no stranger to the job.”

“I checked with Ransom’s family and the servants. She is asking them questions too,” Kaya said. “Are you sure your beast wants her?” Tiny lines of amusement fanned out from her blue eyes. “Is that what you call your thing?” She gestured at his groin.

“No.” Nanu sighed because they didn’t understand. They would soon. “It’s not a joking matter. If I don’t get Jazen to my gattoc, I’ll become violent and unreasonable. As far as my beast is concerned, the mating process has begun. It happened the first time we met.”

Ry straightened to his full height. “How violent?”

“I’ll attack anyone who tries to get between us. My body mass will increase, right before I snatch Jazen and take her to my gattoc. I’ll be much stronger than normal and will stay that way afterward.”

Ry arched a brow at Mogens. “Have you heard of this?”

Their seer and medic shook his pale gray head. “No, but I intend to consult the clouds to ascertain the future. They will help me discern a reasonable course of action.”

“You didn’t think to inform us earlier?” Jannike demanded. “That we might have made a plan to handle you and your beast.”

“I’m well past the age of mating on Indra. Yep and I were both past the age.” Pangs of regret pierced him when he remembered his deceased brother. “I’ve traveled extensively on the Indy, and never found a mate. It didn’t matter because I have friends, and I appease my sexual needs whenever I have the opportunity while understanding I’ll never have the chance of offspring.” He marshaled his thoughts, and a sense of wonder flooded him. “Now I will have Jazen.”

“You don’t trust her,” Ry snapped. “That’s a problem.”

“I could leave—”

“No,” Ry barked.

“No,” Camryn snapped.

Jannike glowered. “No.”

“You and I are the last singles standing,” Kaya said, every hint of her earlier amusement vanishing. “You can’t leave.”

“I agree,” Mogens said. “We must find another way.”

“You said you’ve tried asking her questions about her background.” Camryn plonked onto the end of Nanu’s bed.

“She’s as evasive as me,” Nanu replied. “She has secrets or something she doesn’t wish us to discover.”

Ry paced in the confined space until Camryn grabbed one biceps and hauled him to a halt. “We’re missing something. We have skirted the law with some of our freight shipments. Perhaps we’ve crossed the wrong people before.” He raked a hand through his black hair. “But nothing untoward has occurred recently.”

Jannike shook her head. “We have had no problems since we based ourselves on Viros. All our cargo has been legal.”

“That doesn’t mean someone from our past isn’t trying to put us out of business or cause chaos,” Camryn commented. “There were those pirates that attacked the Indy not long after I joined you.”

Ry shook his head, “No, that had nothing to do with Jazen. That was my brother causing problems.”

“Where would you build this gattoc thing?” Kaya asked.

Nanu stared at his bandaged leg, breathing deeply to keep his beast tranquil. He craved Jazen, and he found it difficult keeping his hands to himself. “If I lived on Indra, I’d build my gattoc on family land.”

“I’ll talk to Lynx and Shiloh,” Jannike said. “Maybe Jarlath. Is this gattoc thing a permanent fixture?”

“Not necessarily. My father and uncles built an outer shell—one that was weatherproof and secure.” Nanu twisted his lips. “Sometimes the mating isn’t something the female wants.”

“Are we considering helping Nanu to kidnap a woman? A stranger we haven’t researched?” Camryn demanded.

Ry eyed Nanu. “You’re certain you’re at the crunch point?”

“Yes.” His friends did not need to learn of his X-rated imaginings for Jazen.

Camryn still radiated disapproval. “What happens after the gattoc thing?”

“I’ve never heard of a mating failure once the couple reaches the gattoc,” Nanu said. “Jazen won’t want to leave me once we’re done.”

Kaya made a scoffing sound. “The all-powerful beast wins.”

“Something like that,” Nanu said.

“But that doesn’t remove the problem of trust,” Ry stated. “What do we do? We can’t have someone around who is seeking to destroy us.”

“But if I leave—” Nanu offered again.

Camryn jumped to her feet. “No. That is one option we’re not taking.”

“Then we move ahead,” Jannike said. “We investigate Jazen and figure out a working plan for Nanu. How much longer will he be off work? Once Nanu gets this Jazen into his gattoc thingy, we must have answers. Somehow, we must win her over and gain her trust.”

Everyone eyed Mogens for the answer.

“Another seven cycles to be certain the bone has fully healed. He can exercise the limb now—gentle exercises to strengthen his muscles.”

“They have become flabby,” Kaya inserted.

Nanu rolled his eyes and didn’t bite. “Are we replacing the tender?”

“Already on it,” Jannike said. “We can borrow one from Shiloh and Lynx until we buy a new one.”

“We have savings we can use to buy a new one,” Camryn added. “No problems there.”

“I’m more worried about why it failed,” Nanu said. “I’m concerned about the way it crashed. Was it the mine or something else? So many unanswered questions about the mine we discovered.”

“Don’t worry,” Ry said. “I intend to investigate the crash. Gryffnn has asked me to inspect the mine and research the crash on behalf of the dragons. We’ll do that as soon as we arrange a replacement.”

“I wish I could help,” Jannike said mournfully. “Lynx and Shiloh are watching me like one of those catnip plants.”

“I heard that,” a masculine voice grumbled.

“Can we borrow a tender from you until we can get a replacement?” Jannike asked. She gasped without warning and held her stomach.

“What is it?” Lynx, the king of Viros, appeared behind Jannike, his holo popping into Nanu’s chamber.

“It seems I erred in my calculations. It is time for the birth,” Mogens said.

Jannike paled. “No! Mogens. Camryn, you promised you’d be here with me.”

“Change of plans,” Ry stated. “We’ll leave now. Nanu, can you hold things together until we get back to Viros?”

“If Jazen is on the ship with us.” Nanu reflected on leaving without her and rejected the idea. No separation. A snarl escaped him, gruff and angry, and it echoed within his chamber. “Having her on a different planet will upset my inner beast.”

Jannike cried out and clutched her belly, taking the focus off him. “You won’t make it back to Viros in time.”

“We will,” Camryn promised. “Lynx, take her to the medical wing. Jannike, fill them in and warn Gweneth about Jazen. She chats with everyone. Explain something is hinky with Jazen, to stay on her guard.”

Jannike’s answer was a pained groan.

“What is this hinky?” Lynx asked in the mystified tone he often possessed when discussing Earth words.

Jannike gasped and straightened. “I shall explain. Please hurry. I can’t do this without you.”

“Cross your legs,” Kaya ordered. “We’re on our way.”

“No you’re not,” Jannike snapped. “You’re still chatting.”

Jannike and Lynx blinked out of the chamber without warning.

“Right,” Ry said. “Listen up. This is what we will do.”

* * * * *

Something was up, and she was missing the drama because of her stupid nursing duties. Jazen completed the massage on the dragon shifter as fast as possible without skimping on his treatment. He was a handsome man with his untidy black hair and serious muscles. Yet he didn’t make the lifeforce race through her body while one glimpse of Nanu had her breathing lurching into a choppy pace, her traitorous body prickling in expectation and her mind filling with foggy lust. Not the ideal situation when she needed clear thoughts and focus to gain information from Nanu and his friends.

The dragon shifter who had helped her with Ransom remained in the chamber instead of departing as per his normal procedure. Frustration curled through her, and she willed him to leave. He remained at the thick wooden door, almost her guard rather than the dragon’s. She cast him a suspicious glance.

Footsteps rushed past the chamber. Thump. Thump. Thump. Another set of footsteps sprinted, indicating an emergency.

When the dragon shifter remained at his post, she risked a question. “What’s happening? Is something amiss?”

“Nothing is wrong,” the dragon shifter informed her without opening the closed door to investigate the situation.

Her comm buzzed, and she wiped the massage oil from her hands before glancing at the message.

Have you decided to lend me the money yet? My window of opportunity is closing. If I don’t hurry, someone else will buy the property.

Jazen muttered under her breath and resentment crept into her. Chobe had earned decent currency hunting down those with warrants on their heads and taking contracts to assassinate those who caused trouble.

He’d crowed about his profits from his last assignment where he’d taken down a bigwig in the Reidhurt Corporation. Jazen pulled a face. She hadn’t asked for further details. Here, ignorance suited her best. After her first assassin contract where she’d learned the man had been innocent, and his wife had wanted him dead to mate with another younger male, Jazen had stuck to bounty hunting and capturing those with outstanding warrants.

She studied Chobe’s message again. Grata! Her brother not only earned plenty, but he had expensive tastes. If he’d saved part of his earnings as she had, he’d have plenty to buy a home for his wife and child.

She tapped a rapid reply. You told me you no longer required a loan.

I reconsidered. You’re right. Going to money-lenders is a bad idea when you have the currency.

He’d attached a depiction to his message, one of him with his wife and son. Each bore a wide, joyful smile, and Jazen couldn’t maintain her grump in the face of their happiness.

Chobe had made himself a family, something she’d never imagined for either of them. Her irritation with him eased. He should seek security. Wasn’t she intending to claim her own slice of sanctuary as soon as she reached her savings goal? Would it matter if she sought one or two more contracts? Azarious would graciously accept the commission. Stars, he’d offered her a position training other budding warrant-takers because he approved of her methods and her resounding success.

“I’m finished with Ransom for now.” Jazen placed her comm in her pocket and worked to keep the bite from her tone. She rounded the large gel-bed with its pristine white covers and marched toward her jailer with determination. The thick ruby-red rugs covering the floor spoilt her stomp, and the shifter merely cocked one black brow.

“It’s time to check on my other patient,” she stated, throwing back her shoulders and lifting her chin in her best don’t-mess-with-me attitude.

Before the dragon shifter reacted to her challenge, someone tapped for entrance. The dragon shifter tensed, raised his head to sniff and relaxed.

Friend or acquaintance, Jazen surmised as he readily opened the door.

“Ah, there you are,” Kaya said. “You need to pack your things.”

Jazen stood taller, anger pushing at her. Aware of the need for professionalism, she sucked in a deep breath and grasped for her inner calm. “Why? I have done nothing wrong.”

“We have to make an emergency visit home. Nanu will need your services during the journey to Viros.”

“But what about Ransom?”

Kaya tapped her foot. “Gryffnn will arrange temporary help. Once Nanu no longer requires your services, you can nurse Ransom if you wish. Hurry, we leave as soon as you’re packed.”

“As you wish,” Jazen managed, projecting more calm instead of releasing her crazy burst of excitement. Perfect. A plan falling into place. Access to their ship might yield more clues to Amme Vanak’s disappearance.

“I’ll help you pack.” Kaya grasped Jazen’s arm and tugged her three steps before Jazen dug her heels into the thick rug.

“What is the hurry?”

Camryn and Ry appeared at the end of the corridor.

“Are you ready to leave?” Ry spoke curtly, his dark brows drawn together.

“I’m ready.” Kaya scowled at her. “Come or not. We don’t care. Whatever your decision, we’re leaving for Viros.”

The door to Nanu’s chamber opened, and Mogens exited with Nanu a few steps behind him. Nanu limped with the aid of crutches, and she’d been right about his height. He stood a head taller than her. His hair appeared different too. The light perhaps? Ah, he’d removed some of the beads he’d worn at the ends of his fat dreads.

“Go ahead,” Mogens said. “Seedric has promised to help us get to the Indy. We’ll probably arrive there before you.”

“All right,” Jazen said. “Let me grab my bag.” She raced past Mogens and Nanu to the chamber two doors down. She unlocked her door and darted inside to grab her bag.

“You lock your chamber? Why?” Kaya’s blue eyes flashed, and her suspicion increased when she noted Jazen’s already packed bag. Her mouth tightened, a hint of bright blue highlighting her high cheekbones.

Without warning, the woman radiated danger, and Jazen eyed her warily. She scrambled to supply an answer. “Some of my jobs…my employers consider my services come with extras.”

“Fine, you can tell me about the ass-hat men during our journey to Viros.” Kaya’s stance softened a fraction but Jazen didn’t kid herself. She’d need to tread with care while onboard the Indy since the crew appeared more intelligent than the beings she usually dealt with. They were protective of each other in a way she hadn’t witnessed. Their welcome had been lukewarm, and they continued to treat her with suspicion. It frustrated her, but patience would net results. It always did. According to Azarious, she was a master at building trust and wriggling seemingly unimportant pieces of information free to complete a capture.

She would not fail.

The Indefatigable was an immense ship, and once Jazen boarded, she saw the exterior hid surprise additions to increase performance. She’d learned something about ships while hanging out with the fly-boys on Cahedro. That job had been one of her more memorable ones.

“This way,” Kaya ordered, taking Jazen’s arm.

Jazen jerked her forearm free and straightened her uniform. “Where should I put my bag? How long will the journey take?”

Kaya directed her along a narrow corridor painted a cool, pale blue. Unusual. Most ships came in one color. Gray. The corridor led to the bridge. When they entered, Mogens and Nanu were already present, and from the sounds of it, they were amid an argument. Their discussion ceased when she and Kaya entered the bridge.

Nanu blinked, the rigidity leaving his muscles. He dropped onto a seat and leaned his crutches against an instrument panel.

“Jazen, you’re here.” Nanu’s amber eyes glowed in a weird manner. She blinked at his warm smile and then wondered if she’d imagined the unearthly shimmer.

“How did you arrive before us?” she asked.

“Never mind that. Sit. Sit.” Kaya pushed Jazen into a chair. “I’ll strap you in.”

Jazen batted Kaya’s hands away. “What is wrong with you? I can do it myself.” She clicked the seat harness into position. “Would someone explain why we’re in such a hurry?”

They exchanged a quick glance before Mogens answered. “The queen is giving birth. Camryn and I must be present.”

“The queen of Viros?”

“Yes,” Kaya snapped. “What is it with you and questions?”

Nanu growled and everyone froze. Jazen stared at him in bemusement, and he pinged back the intense regard until Mogens ambled to a position that blocked their connection. Strips of black slashed across the white of Mogens’s face, but Jazen had become used to the seer’s changeable moods. If only she recalled where she’d seen Nanu. Her brain plucked through her memories, yet nothing gelled. Most frustrating.

Ry and Camryn bustled onto the bridge.

“Mogens, is Nanu up to flying?” Ry plonked his butt on the seat next to Nanu.

“Nanu can act as the pilot for part of the flight,” Mogens instructed as if he were captain. He regarded Nanu, and Jazen imagined Mogens’s pale violet gaze drilling into him. “You will inform me when you tire.”

“Yes,” Nanu promised.

He sounded meek, but Jazen couldn’t tell for sure because Mogens stood in the way.

“Give me your bag,” Kaya ordered. “We don’t have junk on the floor of the bridge. It’s dangerous.”

Unwillingly, Jazen handed over her belongings. Apart from the weapons in the false layer beneath her clothes, she stored nothing incriminating. But still… After living at the brothel, she hated to lose sight of her possessions. There were too many beings with light fingers and no scruples, ready to steal and on sell for profit.

Camryn sat on the seat to Jazen’s right and buckled the harness into place. Nanu also buckled up and commenced the pre-flight sequence.

Kaya reappeared and took the seat on Jazen’s other side, and the Indy took off, almost before Kaya had strapped into her seat.

The air of urgency set Jazen on edge. She watched the green planet of Narenda grow smaller in the viewport. Her skin itched, a signal of danger, yet she failed to pinpoint the exact source of her unease. She scrutinized Camryn, then Kaya.

“What’s wrong?” Kaya asked, intercepting her peek.

“I…nothing.” No, she had to ask questions, to understand. “I don’t understand why we are in a hurry.”

“We told you,” Kaya said. “The queen is giving birth. She ordered us to come.” A grin flashed. “Used her queenly powers and mentioned dungeons with big biting insects. We decided to obey.”

Camryn let out a rude snort. “Kaya, you try pushing out twins and see how you enjoy the experience. Jannike needs reassurance. She supported me, and I can do nothing less for her. She is our friend and crew mate.”

“You’re personal friends with the queen?” Jazen had learned the crew based themselves on Viros, and she’d heard rumors about royal connections, but she hadn’t believed them.

Kaya didn’t reply. She merely stared at her, a mocking twist to her lips that made Jazen’s hands curl into her thighs, the urge to punch the pointy-eared woman almost getting the better of her.

Jazen inhaled to the point of bursting and pushed the breath back out while focusing on the back of Nanu’s skull. His strange hair lifted a fraction, the fat strands writhing from side to side. Jazen gave her head a hard shake and refocused.

His hair hadn’t wriggled.

It had not.

Her imagination conjured one of the snakeill nests common in the markets of Cahedro. A delicacy the locals cooked into a thin soup. Personally, after seeing the creatures hiss and sway, she wasn’t a fan.

Jazen stared at Nanu again. Nothing extraordinary happened. Her mother had always stated her imagination rivaled a seer. Her next breath contained wild herbs and the sweetness of honey. The tension seeped from her muscles, and she relaxed enough to concentrate on her job. Information. It was a scarce as the native Cahedro dodo bird, yet she required more to ascertain her next step. Should she give up this lucrative contract and seek another? Other hunters had tried and failed to locate Amme Vanak.

Jazen risked a peek at Kaya, met her glare and decided to quiz Camryn. “How long have you known the queen?”

“Several rotations,” Camryn said.

Jazen waited, and the pause dragged out. Frustration stalked her mind. Most people rushed to fill the empty space with their chatter. Camryn did not.

“Jazen, your references state you worked in Cahedro for a time,” Ry said. “What is your opinion of the job prospects on Cahedro? Is the spaceport large? We’re always searching for trading opportunities.”

“I heard you have a business contract with the dragons.”

“We do.” Ry batted the conversation back to her without adding more.

“I nursed an elderly lord until he died. I didn’t sightsee on the planet.” Jazen stopped adding details. The less she lied, the easier to keep her fibs straight. “Where will I be staying while I’m on Viros?”

“With us,” Camryn answered without elaborating.

Jazen got the message. They didn’t intend to proffer information or answer her questions. Urgency had made her push too hard, and now she paid the price. She pulled out her comm and occupied herself with a quest game. Normally, she’d play the 3D version, but she didn’t wish to draw further attention.

Nanu and Ry discussed weather conditions and journey times and how hard to push their ship. Dull procedural stuff. She stopped listening to concentrate on her game.

“We’re out of orbit now and into hyper-speed,” Nanu stated.

Camryn and Kaya unbuckled their harnesses and Jazen closed her comm and followed suit.

“I’ll show you your quarters,” Kaya said. “And give you a tour.”

After a quick tour, where she learned she was sharing a cabin with Kaya, Jazen settled in the rec room—painted in the same blue as the corridor, this one had actual paintings, rendered by the artist directly onto the walls. Each seemed to depict foreign lands with unfamiliar races and scenery. A unique way of recalling places they’d visited. When none of the paintings yielded clues, she studied the holo unit, the food station and other things, which were a mystery to her.

Her comm buzzed, and she pulled a face at the screen. Yet another message from Chobe.

When can I have the currency? You will lend it to me, right?

Huffing, she replied in the affirmative. She’d take another contract to replace her savings. One large contract might even be enough. I have funds in my account. I can transfer quarter of the amount you need. The rest is in my bank vault and I must visit in person.

A transfer to Chobe would stop the incessant messages and allow her to focus on her task. And since her success had been minimal, she’d search through the files for other outstanding warrants.

When can you send it?

As soon as I reach Viros. I’m between planets.

Viros? Lots of wealthy marks there.

Jazen snorted, imagining his whistle and the glitter that would leap into his narrowed black gaze.

When will you have the rest?

What? Didn’t she rate a thank you? The trail has gone dead. I intend to search through the warrants again. I might find something else that I can cash in on quickly. Why can’t you take up a contract instead of hassling me?

Viros! Try getting cozy with one of the society marks.

The air hissed from Jazen, and her temper rose. She refused to prostitute herself to raise currency for her brother, and he had a phrullin’ cheek insinuating she should.

I could offer you the same advice. Some of them enjoy males. She shut off the communication part of her comm. Chobe knew her opinion of prostitution. They’d run away to avoid becoming trapped in that life and now her brother expected her to sell herself to help him. Grata, this was a mistake. If he wanted to buy a property, he should earn currency himself!

The longer she stared at Chobe’s message, the higher her temper rose. Lucky for her brother, this conversation wasn’t in person because the temptation to dent his pretty face clenched her hands to tight, white-knuckled fists.

Enough.

He owned the skills to raise the funds himself. He kept coming to her, treating her as his personal banker. Giving him her hard-earned currency was teaching him nothing. Grata, she’d yet to hear his thanks!

Her vision narrowed until red haze filled her sight. She gripped the comm so hard, the casing creaked.

“Is something wrong?”

Jazen started. She hadn’t heard Camryn enter the rec room. “No. Family stuff,” she added because Camryn’s expression showed doubt at Jazen’s denial.

“Where do your family live?”

“We used to live on Grumseics, but my brother is living in Cahedro at present,” Jazen said.

“I have a brother,” Camryn replied. “They are annoying sometimes.”

“Yes.” She didn’t even try to withhold her irritation.

“If you want to talk, I’m willing to listen,” Camryn said.

“I-I…thank you.” Nonplussed by the offer, Jazen stuttered. “That is guaranteed to put me in a bad mood. He wants me to give him a loan.”

“Ah. Oh, well. The offer stands. I came to ask you if you’re hungry. I’m making sandwiches for everyone.”

“Sandwiches?” She’d never heard of that food and learning about a new type piqued her interest.

“Come to the galley. You can help me make them,” Camryn said.

Sandwiches, she discovered, were practical and delicious, much like pies. They made a change from the bowls of gruel and stew she ate in marketplaces and dives during her work assignments. Perhaps she could make these sandwiches as an alternative to pies. If she hated gruel and stew, others would too.

After her meal, she settled in the rec room on a seat with a view of the entire space. She’d notice anyone approaching. She’d use the free time to search through the warrants. See if anything popped.

She scanned the open warrants from the Beasley Corporation based on Ijiot and noted several fugitives with residences on Viros. The main city on the planet was also called Viros. Jazen studied the information packets on the city and planet, refreshing and supplementing the information she’d gained during her short stop there before leaving for Narenda. A king and queen ruled Viros, their home the castle at the summit.

Oh! The royal family comprised a triad, and a duke dwelled in the same residence as the king and queen. Interesting. She hadn’t known that.

The castle lay in the center of the city and the rest of the populace lived on the lower ring roads that wove down the rise until they reached the surrounding walls and ran out of space. Those with rank and importance lived near the castle while tradesmen and those with less standing lived farther down the hill. A central bank of steps connected the different levels. If the place had fortified walls, and the military noted arrivals and departures, that might hamper her freedom.

If she captured a fugitive, she’d leave via the first public transport for Ijiot. She read further, confidence in her fledgling plan growing. After the newest king had taken power, he had built a spaceport. That would make her life easier once she captured a fugitive.

She ignored the pang in her chest at leaving, of never seeing Nanu again.

Don’t get emotional, Jazen. A successful warrant-taker locks away his or her personal emotions and finishes their job.

The mantra instilled in her by Azarious, her trainer, flashed into her memories several times each cycle, and she grimaced. Something about Nanu pushed her off her normal stride. The man teased and asked many questions. It had become difficult not talking about her true life, the lies she spouted as a natural smokescreen jabbed at her mind and itched her throat every time she uttered one. That had never happened before and destroyed her equilibrium.

Impatient with her dithering and wishful dreams, she clicked over to the Camgib Corporation and flicked through those files. She scanned details of the crimes, last reported whereabouts and the size of the bounty. Any with connections to Viros, she marked for further investigation.

Her comm signaled an incoming call from her brother, and she clicked ignore. She’d had enough of him demanding she finance him. This time he’d gone too far with his joking insults. He needed to take responsibility instead of relying on her.

Jazen recommenced her scanning, noting the details on automatic pilot. She thumbed past an old warrant after noting the details didn’t make it attractive and jumped to the next before her mind caught up with her fingers. The warrant showed a young man who resembled Nanu. She gaped at the depiction and reread the details. Her mouth widened in shock at the size of the bounty. Her hand trembled and her comm wavered. Blinking, Jazen read yet again, taking in the details. A joint bounty for Jaipur Sidish and his younger brother Ganga Sidish.

The man, along with his younger brother, had murdered the wife of a high-ranking official. They’d flown the woman off her home planet of Indra, killed her and attempted to cover up the crime. Secondary charges of abduction added to the bounty on the brothers’ heads. To encourage success the leader of the Indra Corporation had increased the size of the bounty each rotation.

Jazen stared at the man’s face, comparing what she knew of Nanu. The name wasn’t correct, but beings changed their names all the time, for many reasons. The face and the hair were similar. Her pulse raced a little faster, and she swallowed.

Every instinct screamed that Nanu and Jaipur Sidish were the same man. She could forget her search for Amme Vanak. Nanu’s bounty was worth three times more, and the man resembled a ripe fruit, in front of her for the taking.

Betrayal

Nanu landed the Indy at their usual berth and powered down. “Home,” he said with satisfaction. And even better, Jazen was on his home turf too. He refrained from looking at her, but every particle of his body hummed at her presence.

Camryn and Mogens unbuckled their harnesses and raced from the bridge. Shiloh had promised to have transport waiting to whisk them to Jannike, leaving the rest of them to make their way to the castle.

“How is the leg?” Ry asked.

“Stiff and it aches.” Nanu went for honesty even though every instinct screamed at him to say he was fit and healthy and preferred to seize Jazen instead of rest his leg. “And I’m antsy and unsettled.”

Ry leaned closer. “Because of the woman?”

“Yes. I must wait for my leg to heal to at least ninety-five percent, and I need to sort out my gattoc. I can’t do a thing until everything is settled, but my inner beast doesn’t care about such trifles.” A bead dropped off the end of one of his dreads and pinged against the metallic floor of the bridge. Only a few beads remained intact, which meant his body was changing faster than expected.

“Are you positive this is what you want?” Ry asked in an undertone.

“Yes. It’s too late now. There is no going back.” Nanu sought Jazen, and he found her eying him and Ry with suspicion. Her distrust cut to the bone, and a growl rumbled from him before he exerted control of the instinctive reaction.

“We’ll meet in my suite once we get back to the castle.” Ry spoke softly to avoid Jazen overhearing. “I have relayed instructions to Ellard and Gweneth. They have prepared a chamber for Jazen and armed it for us to keep an eye on her comings and goings.”

“Thank you.” Nanu powered down the ship and moved onto the final berthing procedures and electronic admin work for the spaceport authorities.

While he did this, Ry, Kaya and Jazen loaded the luggage into one of the utility vehicles the locals used around the city of Viros. After securing the Indy, Nanu limped into the chubby pewter-gray flymo along with Jazen and his two friends for the journey to the castle. His leg throbbed, and he was glad to drop into a seat and relax.

“Is this your first visit to Viros?” Kaya asked Jazen.

“No, I spent a cycle here before I traveled to Narenda. I didn’t explore the city. I’ve spent most of my time in the northern sector of the galaxy. This is my first visit to the south.”

“We are healthier specimens and don’t require nurses,” Kaya joked. “The men are bigger and sexier, a reason to enjoy the place.”

Nanu listened to the conversation but didn’t participate. Jazen didn’t give away much personal information, and he’d hate to interrupt the kernels she was delivering.

Jazen waved her hand in dismissal. “I’ve no idea. So far, I haven’t needed to search for work in other sectors. The agency I work through has enough to keep me busy.”

“Why did you make a change and travel south?” Kaya asked. “Don’t your family miss you?”

“There is my brother and his wife and son,” she said. “I don’t see him often, although we keep in contact via comm.”

Nanu soaked in the details. Excellent on the family connections. One brother to deal with. Anyone might transmit a message to her brother on her behalf and he’d be no wiser. Or, they could bug her comm and allow inward messages but delay the outward ones. Yes, that might work better and keep them informed of her brother’s movements. If they managed that, no one would raise the alarm when he abducted her.

After testing the plan in his mind, he decided it was a good one. He’d feel better, though, if he’d constructed his gattoc already. His inner beast grumbled, his displeasure an unpleasant frisson across Nanu’s skin.

Leeam, one of their Incorporeal friends, shimmered into the empty seat by Nanu. He bore a broad grin on his pale face, the rose blush on his cheeks, showing his excellent health. His bright red shirt and emerald-green trews clashed, but the effect worked for the Incorporeal. “You’re back! Sheera and I missed you.”

Jazen jolted, staring at Leeam with wide eyes. Her hand darted to her hip, and she pulled out a stunner.

“Whoa!” Kaya said. “Put that down.” She slammed her fist down on Jazen’s wrist but Jazen sprang to her feet, and backed up, pointing the weapon at them with an ease that hinted at her skill and her ability to defend herself.

“Stand down,” Ry snapped. “Leeam is our friend.”

Jazen didn’t move, instead pointing the stunner at Nanu.

“Are you going to stun me, darlin’?” Nanu asked, not taking his gaze off her face.

“You’re wanted on Indra for murder,” she said in a hard voice. “I intend to claim the bounty.”

Leeam blinked out and reappeared behind Jazen. He grabbed her from behind, his cold embrace seeming to shock her into immobility. In the split secs of inattention, Ry and Kaya sprang at her, knocking away the weapon and restraining her.

“Great job, Leeam,” Ry said. “You remembered your training.”

Jazen struggled but Ry and Kaya controlled her with difficulty. Finally, Jazen realized her fight was fruitless, and she stilled, her chest heaving with her exertion.

Nanu stared at Jazen, shock making his chest heavy. His inner beast released an audible growl of displeasure. “You’re a warrant-taker?”

“Yes,” she spat.

“But you didn’t ask me where I came from.” Nanu clenched the hard seat he sat on with both hands to stay his inner beast.

She rolled her eyes. “I didn’t realize my patient was a wanted man until I was looking through the outstanding warrants.” She glared at him, at Ry and Kaya. “You can’t hide forever. Others will come.”

“Why did you take the nursing job?” Ry demanded. “If Nanu wasn’t your intended target, who are you searching for?”

Jazen lifted her chin. “What will you do with me?”

“Detain you until you supply answers,” Kaya replied. “Leeam, can you conjure cuffs for us? Wrist and leg.”

Nanu snarled and gripped the edges of his seat harder. His mind stumbled and twisted and spun in shock and lust and disappointment. The woman his inner beast had decided would complete them was a liar and a cheat, and she’d demonstrated what he meant to her.

Nothing.

* * * * *

“How is Jannike?” Nanu asked when Ry opened his suite door to admit him.

Kaya had already arrived and had a goblet of cacjuice in hand. “Cussing Shiloh and Lynx and threatening their manhoods. I wanted to tape the scene but Camryn kicked me out of the medical suite. When I left, Jannike shouted that if they came near her with their dicks again, she’d chop them off.”

Nanu winced, and he noticed Ry didn’t appear too comfortable either. “Camryn didn’t threaten you.”

“No, she was too sick.” Ry shuddered.

Nanu kicked himself for bringing back the memories of the time when Camryn had almost died. “Where did you put Jazen?”

“Leeam and Sheera escape-proofed the chamber we’d allocated to her,” Kaya said. “Although she deserves it, we didn’t put her in the dungeon.”

A knock signaled another arrival. Ry disappeared and reappeared with their fellow crew mate Gweneth and her mate Ellard, who was head of castle security. Leeam and his mate Sheera trailed them.

Gweneth was pregnant, her belly rounded. Nanu blinked at the size of the bulge and figured she was also bearing twins. She’d arranged her black hair in a single fat plait that hung down her back while her green eyes shone with mischief. She and Ellard contrasted in appearance and moods, with Ellard having a plain face and a somber manner, yet they fit together and formed a perfect partnership.

Jazen flittered into Nanu’s thoughts, and he grimaced. He didn’t have the same knack of picking partners.

“Camryn and Mogens are staying with Jannike until she gives birth so everyone is here,” Ry informed them. He caught the new arrivals up on Jazen and the situation with Nanu.

“Oh, Nanu.” Gweneth offered him a swift hug. “Why didn’t you say something? None of us would have rejected you—not after all we’ve been through together.”

“Yep and I tried not to dwell on the past. Rosevear’s husband is a tyrant and there was no way to clear our name. We were young, and he had power. I knew we had a bounty on our heads, but we traveled as far from Indra as possible and met Ry in the bar on Ibrox. He needed crew and signed us on. We raised no alerts. We explained we could never revisit our home and figured it was best to keep the details to ourselves.”

“I’d intended to check on your story, but you and Yep fit in with the rest of the crew so seamlessly,” Ry said. “You were honest and never tried to cheat any of us, so I took you at face value. We all had things we wished to keep private. Me. Jannike. Mogens. Kaya. I figured that you and Yep deserved your privacy.”

As usual, mention of his younger brother caused his gut to knot and his breathing to hasten. He forced himself to inhale, fighting off the anxiety and sense of loss. Yep had been his best friend, and his passing had left a yawning hole in Nanu’s life.

“Do you still wish to abduct her and take her to your gattoc?” Kaya asked. “Now that we’ve learned the extent of her betrayal?”

“My inner beast has locked on her. I’m holding things together by a thread as it is,” he confessed, miserable at the horrid truth. He’d fallen for a woman who’d stab him in the back at the first opportunity. Numbness seeped through him as he acknowledged the truth. Once again, he’d erred, and this time felt worse than Rosevear’s rescue and subsequent murder. It was on par with Yep’s death—the darkest time of his life—and he found it difficult to get past Jazen’s behavior toward him and his friends. Pressure in his chest reminded him to breathe. Aware of his friends’ regard, he gulped a draft of air, yet devastation continued to batter him, making his stomach roil, his head throb.

How the phrull did he get past this?

“Is the warrant-hunter searching for Amme?” Gweneth asked. “Amme is the only one of us who might attract that attention after her defection.”

“It’s a possibility. Not that it matters,” Ry said. “Not a one of us will mention Amme’s whereabouts and Earth is far enough away that it’s a long journey to retrieve her. I doubt the bounty would be large enough to attract many warrant-takers. Don’t worry, Gweneth. I am certain Amme will stay safe with Marcus.” Ry eyed Nanu. “If you’re certain you wish to keep Jazen, it’s up to you to make sure she won’t betray us again. It’s your life and freedom at stake.”

Nanu dropped onto a gel-chair, the soft pad conforming to his body. His leg ached from the flight home and now his head throbbed in tandem. “My inner beast…it’s too late,” he said with a sense of helplessness.

Ry rubbed his chin. “I figured you’d say that. The only alternative is to allow the mating to continue. Somehow, you must gain her trust and secure her loyalty. If you don’t, I’ll terminate your contract because none of us need to live with the risk of her causing trouble.”

Nanu stared at Ry, the unexpectedness of the ultimatum stealing his breath. Ry’s decision left the main chamber of the suite ringing with shocked silence.

Nanu licked his lips. The crew of the Indy were his family. They were everything to him. All he had left and his reason for living. Without them…

Phrull it.

No matter which option he chose, he was royally screwed.

* * * * *

Jazen paced the confines of her luxurious prison, once again searching for a way to freedom. Gel-chairs in a rich burgundy sat in a semi-circle around an entertainment center. Cream pads and green ones were strewn everywhere for extra comfort. Float tables to hold comms and meals and cups of tay slotted in the storage slots in the arms of the gel-chairs. She’d sensed Ry and his crew were formidable. She’d ascertained that much from her research, but seeing them in action had impressed her more than she cared to admit. They worked together as a team, their talents too much for her to combat alone.

She’d made a big mistake, acting on impulse instead of waiting and planning her capture. A foolish beginner’s error. But whenever she stood near Nanu, every part of her screamed at her to touch, and even worse, she dreamed about kissing him, fucking him. A bad move when she intended to claim his bounty fee, and now, because of her scrambled brainbox processes, she was paying the price.

She came to an abrupt halt in the middle of the big suite, her bare feet sinking into the deep pile of the floor coverings. An entertainment center with holo capability slid from the wall, should she require a diversion. A gel-bed large enough to sleep four or five filled the adjoining room. It bore a soft cream cover and matching cream and contrasting burgundy gel-pads festooned the high end of the gel-bed. The facilities—she wasn’t certain what some things did and only knew they wouldn’t aid an escape.

Yes, they’d provided her with food and shelter, clean clothes and a place to wash. Yet there were no obvious weapons, and now that she’d acted hastily, she’d never get the drop on them again.

Stupid. So stupid.

The mocking words of her instructor resounded in her head. She hadn’t made a plan. Instead, she’d acted on impulse and showed her hand too early.

Now, she was in a state of limbo, not understanding what they might do with her or how they might punish her for trying to capture Nanu. They’d even taken her comm before handing it back to her later. She suspected they’d bugged it or restricted her use. It buzzed, and she opened it to a message from her brother.

Jazen, please send the currency. I withheld the truth because I hated you to think less of me. I visited the money-lenders and purchased the property. All went well until I defaulted on my payments, and now they’ve kidnapped Raffey. They’re threatening to send him to us piece by piece if they don’t receive a payment soon. Jazen, I’ve been stupid, but I implore you. Please send me currency.

Jazen reread her brother’s message, her stomach swirling in horror and her previous irritation falling away. Raffey was the sweetest child, although he didn’t resemble Chobe. Chobe told her he took after Sergy’s mother.

Grata, how could Chobe be so careless with his finances? And why hadn’t he told her the truth earlier?

She messaged Chobe back about sending the funds ASAP. She hit transmit on the message but it didn’t send. Tears filled her eyes. As soon as one of her captors came, she’d plead with them to let her send currency to Chobe. Surely they wouldn’t wish a child to befall harm?

She prayed not, but if they refused to listen she, Chobe and Raffey were doomed.

Perhaps she bore more of her mother’s genes than she’d realized. She’d made stupid decisions. Impulsive decisions. Decisions that had landed her in trouble. Grata! Bitter self-mockery escaped her in a curse. It sounded as if Chobe had made a bad decision too.

Jazen resumed her pacing. She’d promised herself she’d never replicate her mother’s actions. It hadn’t taken her long to screw up that pledge.

In the short time she’d been with the Indy crew, she’d come to admire them. Fragin’ grat, maybe she appreciated them because of the open respect and trust they held for each other. The strength of the friendship that bound them together into a team.

A family.

They had what she’d never had, never presumed to have, and a sad part of her sought to destroy their happiness.

She whirled to pace another circuit of her prison, lifting her head the instant she heard the locks disengaging. With two huge steps, she jumped behind the door, poised to dart out the opening or wallop the unsuspecting person attempting to enter.

“Are you trying to hide?” a feminine voice asked. “That trick won’t work.”

Jazen jumped, and a tiny eep of alarm escaped as she stared at the couple who had materialized in the middle of the chamber. One was the same young man who’d appeared on the transport and caused her focus to fracture enough for the Indy crew to disarm her. Their bright clothing popped against their pale skins, and she’d never faced such astonishing vibrancy before. The woman wore contrasting purple and pink streaks in her long white hair while the male now sported myriad black-and-purple plaits to match his tight black trews and flowing patchwork jacket. She recalled the Indy crew mentioning some of the Incorporeal race lived on Narenda, but she had met none during her time there.

Before she demanded answers, the door sprang open, striking her face and sending her two steps back. Ow! She gingerly touched the tip of her nose for signs of lifeforce. Her finger came away clean.

Ry and a stranger entered, both with weapons trained on her.

“Nanu wasn’t your initial target. Who were you searching for?” Ry asked in a hard voice.

There was no reason not to tell the truth now. “I was searching for the missing child-minding cyborg, Amme Vanak.” Jazen’s face throbbed. “I need to transfer currency to my brother. It’s an urgent matter.”

“Who did you say?” Ry asked, cocking his head.

“Amme Vanak.”

“I’ve never heard of him.”

“Amme is a female.” Jazen edged away, unnerved by the big silent man at Ry’s side. He wasn’t a looker, but he radiated menace.

“Jazen?” Ry prompted in a hard voice, drawing her attention back to him.

She’d seen him with Camryn and his friends and considered him amiable and tamed. Wrong. The man standing in front of her bore the demeanor of a warrior.

Jazen took half a step back. “I-I learned she left Ornum on board the Indefatigable.”

Ry snapped his fingers. “Oh. That cyborg. She was a disagreeable old tartar. At her request, we dumped her at the next refueling station.”

“The cyborg wasn’t old.”

“I believe her employer wanted a child-minder who didn’t attract the local men. Not many women on Ornum. It’s a rough planet, full of prisoners, ex-prisoners and miners. He had her appearance retooled.”

“So the cyborg I was searching for no longer exists.” Excellent. She’d never had a chance. It was time to give up this warrant-taker deal and do something else. If they ever let her leave this place. She’d inform them she had no intention of betraying Nanu. Not that they’d believe her when she’d tossed their trust back in their faces.

“That is correct. After we left her at the refueling station, she could have gone anywhere,” Ry replied.

“Please, it’s urgent that I send currency to my brother.”

“Why should we let you? You attempted to betray us,” Ry said in a hard voice.

“My brother went to money-lenders. They’d kidnapped his son and are threatening to harm him unless Chobe catches up on his payments. Please, Raffey is an innocent child.”

The two big men shared a telling glance, and disquiet shivered through her. They…they wouldn’t kill her. Would they? She retreated a little farther back into the chamber. Recalling the couple that had shimmered into her presence, she angled her steps until she backed into a wall. Now, she viewed all four. With nowhere left to go, she straightened her shoulders and pretended that fear hadn’t stalked into her mind and set up camp.

“Why should we believe what you say?” Ry asked, apparently unmoved by her plea. “You’ve lied to us from the start.”

She pulled her comm from her pocket. “I received a message before you arrived, but my communication wouldn’t send. You must’ve seen them earlier.”

“Give me your comm again,” Ry said. “I’ll check out your story.”

“Soon?” The idea of Raffey in the clutches of unscrupulous money-lenders had her stomach aching as if she’d eaten bad food. She’d witnessed cruelty toward youngsters and knew what might happen to her nephew.

“I promise to do it as soon as we leave.”

She inclined her head, agreeing since she could do nothing else. They held the advantage. “What will happen to me?”

“Ah, that is for us to know and you to find out.” The big, silent man standing beside Ry grinned and Jazen gulped.

Was that a threat?

A whimper built in her throat, and she struggled to maintain her composure. Her captives often pleaded with her, offered her currency for their freedom. Most of them lied, and she was uncomfortably aware of the irony. Ry didn’t believe her story even though she spoke the truth.

“We’re not doing anything with you,” Ry said. “Yet.”

Jazen tensed every muscle in her body, ready to spring for freedom should the opportunity arise. Not that she’d manage an escape, but she refused to cower against the wall and do nothing. It wasn’t in her nature to act passively.

Ry stuck his head around the corner and spoke to someone. “You can come in now.”

A float table sailed into the room and the scent of a meaty stew accompanied it. A servant, an older man with a hunched posture and a lined face, trailed the float table. He aimed a friendly smile in her direction. “Dinner is served. Where will you eat your meal?”

“You’re giving me food?”

“We’re not monsters,” Ry chided.

Jazen’s tight throat throttled her words. Instead, she stared at the two big men. The pale couple clasped hands and shimmered from view. Poof! She blinked at the unexpectedness, even though she’d already witnessed their powers.

The servant decided for her and directed the float table over by the windows that overlooked the gardens at the rear of the castle, if one peered through the bars. Once he set the table to hover, he retrieved a chair for her.

She looked up in time to see the waiter disappear. Ry and his friend exited, closing the door with a firm click. The lock slotted into place with a final thud.

They’d given her food, treated her with respect yet the uncertainty had every inch of her pulsing with fear. If only they kept their promise and contacted Chobe for her. Raffey didn’t deserve to suffer for his father’s stupidity in going to money-lenders. Although the idea of food nauseated her, she sat, lifted the dome covering one plate and picked up a spork. What had smelled so divine earlier now churned her stomach, but she managed a few mouthfuls before she pushed the plate away and stood, anxiety forcing her to motion.

Now she sympathized with the beings she’d captured for bounties. Trapped. Scared. Indecisive. No, scratch that. Terrified better described the emotions roiling through her, and she hated every moment of the uncertainty.

Nanu Captures His Mate

Nanu opened his chamber door to Kaya’s pounding fists.

“What do you want?” Unsettled as he was, he refused to face Kaya’s ribbing.

“Jannike had her babies. Two. There were definitely two. I hear she threatened to geld both Lynx and Shiloh. I offered to take them off her hands and she called security.” Kaya beamed as she pushed past Nanu and entered his suite. “The real Jannike’s back.”

“Have you visited her?”

“Not yet. We’ll go together. You’re not going to go freaky on me and let your inner monster out?”

Nanu sighed. “Beast, not monster.”

“I was searching for you.” Ry appeared in the doorway. “I’ve been thinking about this gattoc of yours. I might have a solution. Building your gattoc out in the forest isn’t feasible. You need to go to a place where it’s safe and we can have your back.”

“We’re going to visit Jannike,” Kaya said.

“I’m meeting Camryn there,” Ry said. “Let’s walk and talk.”

The visit to see Jannike, her two mates and the new babies stirred his inner beast to greater urgency, and envy grabbed his chest and squeezed it to the edge of pain.

He entered his suite again with relief, no longer needing to keep his fragile emotions contained and invisible from his friends. Only the knowledge that Jazen was nearby stopped him from freaking out. He inhaled and fancied he caught a note of her honey scent.

Yet another set of knuckles rapped on his door, seeking entry.

“I’m not home,” he called.

Leeam and Sheera shimmered into sight. “We’ve come to help with your gattoc. Do you have depictions?”

The Incorporeal pair changed their appearance and their clothes several times each cycle, mostly to bright blues and reds, greens and yellows. On Narenda, most Incorporeal beings wore sedate colors such as black, white and gray. Not this pair. At present they both wore hot pink T-shirts and form-fitting black trews. Their T-shirts bore the slogan ‘Team Nanu’. Kaya’s doing, he’d bet.

The angst riding his mind skittered away, replaced by eagerness and gratitude. “No, but I can describe a gattoc to you. All the things that make an impressive bower, and you can tell me if it is possible.”

Sheera rubbed her hands together in glee. “This is so exciting. We never had interesting assignments when we lived on Narenda. Our friends back there are so envious.”

Her excitement was infectious, and contentment filled him now that he was taking steps to make Jazen his own.

“First, it needs to be secure. No one must be able to enter or leave until I give permission.”

“What if there is a fire?” Leeam asked.

“They’re normally outdoors and standalone structures. Are you sure you can transform my suite for me? Will it resemble the real thing?”

Leeam and Sheera exchanged a smile.

“Living in the castle with all of you plus the servants and soldiers gives us many options to scoop up the sexual energy you radiate. We are well-fed and confident we can hold the images for the seven cycles you require. Remember the Christmas surprise? That was much more difficult than the images you propose. Thanks to you and your friends we are stronger now,” Leeam said.

Sheera bounced up and down on her toes and gestured with the vigor of an enthusiastic musical conductor. “As long as we can scoop up your sexual energy, we believe we can supply you with your gattoc.”

As Leeam and Sheera transformed his suite into a wilderness, complete with a hot pool, a small waterfall and a celebration bower, Nanu’s hair stirred and lifted. He hummed and the pressure in his gums ceased. His tongue explored the sharp incisors that had pushed through and would allow him to take Jazen’s lifeforce.

Joy filled him as he added more details for Liam and Sheera to conjure. He eagerly awaited his capture of Jazen, and meantime, he’d bust into her comm unit and learn more about the woman. They’d read her messages, and Ry and Ellard were currently checking out her brother and the story about the house and the loan. Some of the info on her comm was secured, and he wanted to unlock it. Research and everything else was fair game. This was love and war—the battle of two determined people, but he was confident he would win with the help of his beast.

After her meal, the Indy crew left her alone. Jazen wandered the two large rooms of her suite, trying not to let the black specters of doubt and fear get a tight grip on her imagination. Life in the brothel had resembled this—a jail she longed to leave. Still, to this day, she wondered at Azarious’s method of persuasion with the brothel owner, how he managed to extract her and Chobe from the life. No doubt, currency had changed hands.

Her mentor was of no use here.

Concentrate. You were trained to think on your feet.

They’d taken her comm and the rest of her possessions, but the one thing that might save her, the one thing that no one knew about except Chobe was the tracker inserted in her hip. Her brother would come for her. They’d made a promise to each other once they’d escaped the brothel. They had each other’s backs.

Jazen continued to prowl the two rooms. Around the gel-bed, which bore the faint impression of her body from when she’d attempted to sleep, past the washroom and facilities and into the spacious common room. She glimpsed the twinkle of lights from the city through a window, yet not a sound reached her.

Her joints ached. Her head ached. Her chest ached.

Surely they hadn’t placed something in her food? No, if they’d attempted to drug or poison her, she wouldn’t have lasted this long. She stalked into the washroom.

“Lights on.”

Luckily, the command worked. She blinked until her vision adjusted and peered into the reflective surface. Everything about her reflection appeared normal, but she felt off. Wrong. Shaking her head, she resumed her pacing.

Chobe, hurry. It’s your turn to rescue me for a change.

“Are you sure you want to go through with this?” Ry asked, concern pulling his forehead into lines. “She’s a warrant-taker and judging by some of the files on her comm, she might even assassinate some of her targets.”

Ellard absently scratched his ghostly arm. “We haven’t discovered much on her brother. My security contact hasn’t got back yet. If you waited another cycle, maybe two before you forge ahead, I’d have the information you require.”

“It’s too late,” Nanu said with regret. His inner beast was pushing him at Jazen, and he had to trust in his beast. Matings between their people never failed if both parties were true Indra natives. The commander and Rosevear—their match had not been a true one, which was why he and Yep had intervened in another man’s private matters. That and the array of bruises Rosevear had borne had helped them decide. She’d died anyway, but they’d tried to do the right thing. As for Jazen, he’d have to pray to the goddess that her lifeforce was compatible with his and the mating would stick.

Every instinct in him screamed this was right.

Kaya entered the chamber. “I’ve researched her brother by following the trail of planets Jazen has visited,” Kaya said. “For past jobs, they worked some together, although I got the sense her brother cuts corners. From what I learned, he prefers those jobs with a kill tag. Has she told you anything about him?”

Nanu wrinkled his nose. “Not much. We’ve spent most of our time dodging each other’s questions.”

“My sources confirm he is a warrant-taker and assassin too,” Ry said. “Although not as successful. My gut says he’s a con-artist. It is difficult to locate his whereabouts because of the assassin jobs he does. He keeps a low profile. You can tell Jazen we let the money transfer go through. Her brother has his loan payment.”

Nanu hissed and didn’t miss the swift, silent communication bouncing between Ry, Ellard and Kaya. “Don’t worry. It’s my beast,” he explained as his dreads lifted and swayed around his head. “My control will improve after the mating.”

“Whoa, that’s disturbing as hell,” Kaya muttered as his dreads continued to dance.

“You say your hair is a weapon?” Ry asked.

“Soon, I will use my dread tendrils to choke anyone who threatens me or my mate. I can also use them as a whip.”

“Good to know,” Ry said. “You will have full control once this is over if, say, we’re training together.”

Nanu grinned at the direction of Ry’s mind. “You’re my friends. As long as you’re not threatening Jazen, you won’t come to harm from me.”

“Nanu, what if this mating doesn’t take? What if Jazen flees the first chance she gets? We can’t watch her all the time.” Kaya appeared uncharacteristically somber. “What if she rejects you? You’re my friend. I don’t want you to get hurt.”

“It’s too late,” Nanu repeated. “The changes started in me the moment I saw her. Jazen not having Indra genes is a problem.” He lifted his shoulder in a half-shrug, trying not to let his friends see his apprehension. “The truth. Anything might happen. The one thing I am certain of is that I must proceed.”

“All right,” Ry said. “We stick to our plan and deal with the consequences later. While you’re busy with Jazen, we’ll continue to gather information about her and her brother.”

“Nanu, before we go forward with the capture, can we see your gattoc?” Kaya asked tentatively.

“Of course.” Pleasure filled Nanu. The missing ingredient in his preparations—family involvement. “Will Camryn and Mogens want to see?” He eyed Ellard. “Gweneth too?”

“I’ll comm them. We weren’t certain if we should ask,” Kaya said. “None of us wish to make this situation more difficult for you.”

“It is tradition to drink a toast and bless the gattoc,” Nanu said. “It has been bothering me that I failed to fulfill this part of the ritual.”

Kaya hip-bumped him. “Silly. You should’ve told us. I’ll be back shortly.” She jogged toward her suite. She reappeared with two bottles of toasting wine and a servant bearing a tray of silver goblets.

Camryn, Gweneth and Mogens arrived, and a short time later, Shiloh and Lynx.

“Jannike ordered us to attend and wish you the best.” Lynx and Shiloh shared an intimate grin. “She ordered us to tell you that if Jazen didn’t treat you well, she’d throw her in the dungeon. We are also to take depictions so she can see your gattoc.”

Without warning, Lynx grabbed Nanu and kissed him on the lips. Before Nanu reacted, Shiloh also kissed him.

Kaya burst out laughing. “Did Jannike sanction those royal kisses?”

“Yes. She told us she wanted you to have support, and she was sure Yep would’ve kissed you good luck.”

“Sorry, Ry, but you’re not allowed to kiss Nanu,” Camryn ordered. “I’ll do it.” She darted toward him, stood on tiptoe and kissed him on both cheeks.

Everyone chortled and observed Ellard and Gweneth.

“What the grata?” Ellard rumbled. He grabbed Nanu and planted a firm kiss on one cheek.

“I’ll do the other,” Gweneth said and did so.

Nanu took a rapid step backward and blinked at them. Emotion clutched his mind and misted his eyes as he angled to Kaya. “It is time for a toast.”

A short time later, with his gattoc blessed and toasted by his friends, both old and new, Nanu strode toward the suite that housed Jazen. Ry and Kaya, standing in for his brother and father, accompanied him. At the doorway, Kaya stopped Nanu and hugged him. Finally, she stepped back and Ry embraced him too. Nanu’s eyes stung again with joy and happiness, and a knot tightened this throat. No matter what the future, at this moment in time, he’d never experienced such belonging and satisfaction with his life. Unable to speak, he gave a curt nod and unlocked the door.

It was time to get this capture started.

Something—an out of place sound—jerked Jazen awake. Her lifeforce muscle beat faster, every hair on her body prickling. Soundlessly, she slid off the gel-bed and crept to the entrance of the sleeping chamber.

She wasn’t alone.

Not that her eyes worked in this inky blackness.

The blacklight hadn’t filled the outer chamber when she’d decided to rest. But now her hand, held out in front of her, blended with the black gloom.

She cocked her head, trying to use her other senses as her mentor had taught her. A musky yet seductive fresh scent filled her lungs. She inhaled again, glorying in the sweetness of the perfume. Before she sucked in her third deep breath, someone sprang at her. Instinctively, she crouched. Her fists slashed out into the blackness, connecting with a thunk.

“Oomph!”

Before Jazen had time to strike again, someone grabbed her arms. A cloth—the source of the zesty odor—pressed over her nose. Her next breath drew the scent deep into her lungs and a decadent languor swept over her.

“Nanu?” Her voice sounded far away, yet whatever the substance on the cloth, she didn’t lose consciousness.

“Yes, my sweet. I’m here.”

A muffled snort sounded, followed by a hoarse gasp.

Nanu swept her up and cradled her against his broad chest.

At last. She relaxed against the hardness for an instant, then her sluggish mind transformed back to warrant-taker. “What have you done to me?” Unfortunately, her demand emerged in a whisper.

“Nothing you didn’t want,” Nanu soothed.

The answer pleased her on one hand, but the tiny analytical part of her brainbox rejected his answer. They’d imprisoned her in this room.

“Where are you taking me?”

“Shush. Relax. We have a long way to travel.”

Jazen’s brows scrunched together. “I want to go home. Chobe needs me.”

“Your brother will be fine on his own. He can visit us later. Ry said the currency transfer went through and your brother should receive the funds.”

Something about his reply struck her as wrong, but she failed to grasp the source of her doubt.

They were moving from the suite they’d locked her inside. Nanu carried her, his strength obvious since she exercised to pack her body with muscle. She had to in order to carry out her job as warrant-taker. Her eyelids drooped, and anxiety tickled her with ghostly fingers. Why was it she recalled some thoughts and others drifted away like Barron mist?

Nanu carried her down long corridors while two others strode beside him. When the corridor narrowed, one escort marched in front and the other followed behind. Soon, a faint wind tickled her face and the scent of green plants and spicy flowers filled her nostrils. Her eyes refused to stay open, no matter how hard she tried to watch her surroundings. Finally, she gave in and attempted to make do with scent and hearing to give her clues.

They clattered up a ramp. A ship. They were leaving the castle. She attempted to force her eyes open and they did for three short secs before her lids slid back down. Something in that cloth they’d pressed over her face.

Needed to object. Needed to shout. Needed to fight.

She did none of those things as the engine hummed and propelled them away from the castle.

Instead, she relaxed against Nanu’s hard chest and let her mind drift into more pleasant topics. She was alive, and as long as she lived, she had hope that she’d escape.

The transport took a long time to get to their destination, and fatigue as well as drugs tugged her deeper into slumber, and she remembered nothing else except the lengthy journey.

“Thank you for helping me,” Nanu said after they’d carried Jazen back into his suite at the castle, the trip a way of confusing the warrant-taker and making her think they were at a different location.

“You’d do the same for any of us,” Ry replied.

“Good luck.” Kaya didn’t smirk. “Tell your mate if she hurts you, I’ll snap her in half like a puny twig.”

Ry scowled. “Not helping.”

“Nanu is my friend. He’s your friend too.”

Ry’s jaw set. “She won’t receive a warning from me.”

Nanu brushed aside their fear and worry for him and embraced them both. “Remember, don’t disturb me unless Viros is on the verge of war. We should emerge around cycle seven or eight, if all goes well.”

“And if it doesn’t go well?” Ry asked.

“Then we’ll have a problem,” Nanu said. “Thanks.” He closed and locked his suite door, applying the extra lock Leeam had made for him. No way would Jazen leave this suite without his permission.

With satisfaction swelling his chest, he loosened his control on his inner beast and jogged toward his chamber, now decked out as a gattoc, where Jazen lay on his gel-bed. Excitement pulsed through him, briefly dampened by the fact his younger brother wasn’t here to share his joy.

But his new family supported him, and that was enough. Yep would cheer him on from the next world, and he took comfort from this knowledge.

He entered his gattoc, the gauzy cream fabric transparent yet strong enough to break the blacklight chill and the blow of the capricious breeze that Leeam had delighted in building as part of the setting. Desperate to rid himself of the clothes that irritated his sensitive skin, he flung off footwear and garments. His indoor scuffs he left by the gattoc doorway while he dropped his pale green tunic and black trews on the intricate woven green, red and black mats that decorated the floor. Sensitivity to clothing was another one of the mating symptoms.

Now that they were alone, he studied Jazen. While not traditionally beautiful in the way of his people, he liked the way her inky black hair fell to her chin. The straight strands shone in the whitelight, shorter than he preferred, but he understood in her profession, long hair might be a hindrance.

Perhaps he’d persuade her to grow her hair longer once they came to an understanding. He eyed her plain and functional white gown and matching skinny under trews with disfavor, every part of him wanting to disrobe her. He didn’t since he wanted her conscious and aware of her actions. The drug would release its grip on her mind soon and once she woke, the test started.

Would she accept him or would she fight their mating?

A tiny whimper escaped her, and he slid onto the gel-bed beside her. In her slumber, she moved closer to him. She nuzzled his neck, and the sweet sensation sped down his body. His cock filled, and his inner beast hummed with pleasure. Carefully, he drew her against his chest and let their lower limbs tangle. So sweet. Her restlessness ceased, and Nanu smiled against her neck.

Jazen belonged to him.

But she didn’t understand or accept his right yet.

Sweet Seduction

Jazen woke slowly, warm and comfortable and at ease. Relaxed as she hadn’t been for cycles. Beefy arms surrounded her, and birdsong filtered into her consciousness. Birdsong? Her eyes flicked open. Where the frak was she? A silky pale cream canopy surrounded her while whitelight glowed through the towering treetops overhead.

Beneath her, a comfortable gel-pad protected her body from rocks and hard tree roots while the transparent gauze kept flying beetles and midges at bay. She heard the insects’ drone and the insistent flap of tiny wings against the shelter.

Her brow crinkled as she tried to recall how she’d arrived in the middle of a forest. Nothing clicked. Her mind remained blank.

She slanted her head to study the male sharing her bed. Nanu. Her pulse bumped up a gear as she studied his strong features, his broad nose. In sleep, his features relaxed, displaying none of the teasing or determination that characteristically etched into his expression.

Something about the man called to her, had attracted her from their first meeting, and this closeness—she admitted it to herself—fulfilled her cravings for sex. This was weird on so many levels because in her profession, she didn’t have time for tender reflections. Never would she bend her will to a man. Her mother’s actions had shown her the futility of that path.

Her profession. Frak it! How had she forgotten?

Nanu had a bounty on his head. He was a murderer and wanted on the planet of Indra.

The memories slammed into her brain, yet she couldn’t summon the energy to move from his embrace. His naked embrace. Without embarrassment, she scanned his face, his broad, muscular chest and let her gaze wander down to his belly. Like her, he came from a humanoid race and as with most humanoid races, there were subtle differences.

His hair was a little weird. The locks didn’t appear as black as she remembered. Perhaps because she was observing his hair so closely. She reached out to touch the tip of her finger to one of the fat, round strands. It was warm, radiating heat. She jerked from the contact, and to her astonishment, the strand lifted, as if seeking her stroke. Frowning, she ran her finger along the length and a faint hum sounded.

“Ah, Jazen. That is fantastic,” Nanu mumbled. “Do it again.”

She tore her hand away as if burned and struggled from his embrace. “Your hair is sentient.”

“Does that scare you?”

“No.” She’d seen weird shit during her travels. “How did I get here?” She tested her memories again and still came up with…nothing. “I remember arriving at the castle and getting locked in a room. But after that, everything is blank. Wait! Did Ry let my transfer to Chobe go through? It’s important.”

“Yes. Ry told me to tell you that the currency transfer to your brother was successful.”

“Thank the stars.” Rafi would be safe now. The money-lenders were brutal, but they held to their own code of honor.

“Never mind that,” Nanu said. “We can discuss more about arrival and your family later. I want to kiss you. I’ve craved your kiss ever since I first saw you.”

His words diverted her, and her gaze darted from his hair to his face. A firm mouth. One that was often curved and smiling, the upper lip thinner than the bottom. She focused on his bottom lip and drew closer.

“Let me kiss you,” he murmured his hands smoothing across her shoulders and down her biceps.

A handful of cycles ago, she would’ve protested, but why fight when she yearned for the physical contact? Her mouth dried. Her lifeforce muscle pumped faster, and she swallowed twice. Something about this situation seemed weird, yet her desire to kiss Nanu never lessened. He didn’t hurry to make contact. Instead, he let her close the distance between them.

His lips were as warm as his hair tendrils. Once they fit together, he drew her against him and moved his mouth lazily against hers. Her pulse thumped at the sense of rightness, at the dash of pleasure winding through her body. Emboldened, her tongue darted out to lick his lower lip, and he groaned, giving her fuller access. She took advantage, sliding their tongues together in the commencement of the mating dance.

A decadent honey flavor burst over her taste buds. This time it was she who groaned. She explored the flatness of his teeth and gloried in his tight embrace. Breathless, she thrilled to his touch, pleasure soaring through her mind. She’d never experienced, never imagined a kiss to rival this one. The dance of their tongues lit signal fires over her body while the stunted spikes along her backbone—a useless inheritance from her anonymous sire—prickled with growing enjoyment each time Nanu ran his fingers over them.

While she’d wanted other men and indulged her sexual curiosity in the past, she’d never craved a man with the intensity in which she desired Nanu in this moment.

Her stomach fluttered in anticipation of a more intimate contact. Her breasts peaked against her tunic. Her sex throbbed. Longing filled her mind, and her lifeforce muscle beat double-time.

She pressed closer and barely flinched when a tendril of his hair stroked her cheek. The sentient strand merely upped her pleasure and a naughty thought drifted into her mind. Could his hair caress her breasts or strum her sex button?

Delight bubbled between them, and Nanu lifted his head, crinkles radiating from the corners of his sparkling eyes. “What?”

“Your hair is amazing.”

“It doesn’t scare you?”

“Should it?”

“My hair is a useful weapon in close combat fighting.”

She blinked. “You won’t hurt me though?”

“No.” He rolled their bodies until she lay flat on the gel-pad.

His familiar visage peered down at her, although she hadn’t seen his hair act this independently before—it hadn’t when he’d been her patient on Narenda. But now, the strands lifted and writhed around his head, pale pink showing through the black.

“Where are we?”

“We’re in my gattoc.”

There was no mistaking his satisfaction. While she sought details of their location and inquisitiveness burned within her, he didn’t scare her. He didn’t appease her curiosity either and that didn’t irritate her in the slightest. Strange, when he’d practically abducted her. She shook her head and, thankfully, jogged back into a work mind frame.

“Why?” she asked.

“I wanted to be alone with you.” His finger smoothed down her cheek and traced around her lips.

“You should’ve asked instead of abducting me.”

“I saw the way you checked me out when we first met. I experienced the same bolt of lust, so I figured I’d act rather than tiptoe around the subject.” Male approval throbbed in his voice for an instant before his face blanked. “Then you decided you’d collect the bounty on my head.”

“Are you sure you weren’t mistaken and received mixed messages?”

“No, I’m sure about the bounty. But we won’t discuss that now. Back to the kiss. That’s more important. You kissed me. You started our kiss, and I intend to finish it,” he purred.

He was right. She had given in to her urge to touch him. The kiss had been the next step in becoming intimate with his gorgeous body. Yes, he spoke the truth. She did want this even though her mind warred, one side for and the other screeching at her stupidity.

He was a wanted man.

Trouble came in this sexy package called Nanu.

She centered herself and speared him with her determination. “I’ll want explanations later. I want to know how I got here. Why I’m here.”

“You’ll get them,” he promised.

The momentary tension slid from her muscles as she weighed his agreement. “Good. Kiss me again. Your flavor tempts me. It’s like nothing I’ve experienced before.”

“Excellent.” He beamed at her seconds before he claimed her mouth.

This time he didn’t bother with preliminaries. His lips collided with hers and seconds later, their tongues twined, the decadent honey tang filling her mouth. She moaned against his lips, her fingers biting into his shoulders as she tried to melt against his chest.

Her mind kept nagging her. This was a bad idea. Wrong, wrong, wrong, yet pulling away from him—impossible.

He held her to him, and she realized he wore not a stich of clothing while she remained dressed. His cock pushed against her lower belly as the kiss continued. Tongues and mouths mated, and the more they kissed, the stronger and more tempting the honey flavor became. Leaving his arms appealed less and less.

Finally, she pulled away, panting with the sheer need that flooded her body. And it appeared the same urgency afflicted Nanu. His eyes glittered with lust and arousal.

“Can I remove your clothing?”

“Yes.” Wait. No! This was a ridiculous idea, yet…there was nothing she wanted more, and she approved of him requesting rather than taking control or ordering her to comply. Her garments weighted her arms and legs, a heavy encumbrance, anyway. They clung to her torso and limbs and she wriggled, desperate to strip. She levered away from him, and immediately mourned the loss of his body heat. Her hands grasped the hem of her tunic.

“No, please. Let me.” His amber eyes glowed and his hair tendrils lifted and swayed around his head as he waited for her response.

“Yes,” she whispered, something about this confident man appealing to her in a big way, despite the conflict with her job and his bounty. His expression made her want to understand him, and the lust surging through her veins ordered her to leap at him.

Later, she’d jump back into warrant-taker shoes. Could she deceive him and claim his bounty after this intimacy?

She hesitated. Sex complicated things, yet she ached for him with a painful intensity. Later. She’d consider the consequences as soon as she rid herself of this strange urgency to couple with Nanu.

“Yes,” she repeated, agreeing to go ahead without reservations.

His hair tendrils settled against his head as he beamed at her. The glow in his eyes intensified. His mouth curved into a pleased smile. A toothy smile.

Her own lips parted in an O of astonishment. His teeth. She’d noticed the whiteness of them earlier, but they’d resembled hers—flat-tipped and even. Now, his incisors bore wicked sharp points.

She flinched as he closed the distance between them, wary without understanding why. Something had changed in a matter of secs.

“Jazen,” he murmured, the tips of his fingers grazing her cheek. “I’d never hurt you. Never. You’re safe here in my gattoc.”

“You have a price on your head,” she blurted.

“I didn’t murder that woman. My brother didn’t murder the woman either. All we’re guilty of is helping her escape a bad mating. Her husband ordered her assassinated. We had nothing to do with her death.”

He spoke with conviction and didn’t avoid her gaze. Was he telling the truth or spouting lies? She scrutinized him closely, seeking a sign either way. It was difficult to concentrate when he was so naked, so big. So…aroused. “But—”

“Enough.”

His stern tone had her snapping her mouth shut. She saw the glow of his eyes, the longing in his expression. Her deep inhalation calmed her unease and the tension dispersed from her muscles, replaced by desire again. Since his request matched the insistent need simmering inside her, she waited for the answers to her many questions. Once Nanu relaxed enough to drop his guard, she’d make her escape, either with Nanu in cuffs or without Nanu at all.

No one captured her.

“All right,” she agreed, and this time, she pushed her ruminations aside to concentrate on him. He knelt in front of her to unlace her boots, and she gave in to the temptation to skim her fingers over his hair. Nanu lifted his head, pushing into her palm. An exuberant hum filled the air. The tendrils vibrated beneath her touch. Intrigued, she stroked the fat strands. They twisted around her wrist, caressing her, the warmth of them radiating up her arm. Wow, they were unlike anything she’d witnessed during her travels.

“Let’s get the rest of these clothes off you,” he said, standing in a fluid motion.

There was no sexy way to wriggle out of her tunic, but that didn’t seem to deter Nanu. He whipped the white garment over her head and removed her breast band before she blinked. Her gaze darted down his body and came to rest on his shaft. His cock bore distinct ridges. She stared, attempting to discern their purpose.

“Beautiful and exotic,” he whispered, drawing her attention upward. He stroked her slowly and ran his fingers over the blunt spikes on her back.

Jazen closed her eyes, hating the ugly spikes that always caused a conversation when someone saw them. They mostly remained beneath the surface of her skin, but when her emotions rose, the blunt spikes did too.

“What race gave you these?” he asked when she remained silent.

Her gaze shot to his face before shooting to her webbed toes. Tiny spikes grew beneath the nails of her toes, barely visible and of no use. “My mother worked in a brothel. My father was one of her many customers.”

“It matters not,” he whispered.

Uncertain, she lifted her head to read his expression. Her tension ebbed. He didn’t care about her background, the genes lurking in her past. Under his bright gaze, she felt desirable and worthy of a male’s attention, the sensual glitter in his eyes distracting her from ogling him back.

Secs later, he removed her trews and undergarments, leaving her naked.

Nanu straightened again, his intense mien darting disquiet through her. She took half a step back and another until she tripped over the gel-pad. She toppled, and Nanu followed her down, caging her between his body and their bed. He pressed his lips to hers and everything in her past ceased to exist. Jazen gripped his upper arms, eager to taste more of his honeyed sweetness. His talented lips caressed hers while his tongue stroked and licked and teased her to the point of madness. The sweet flavor of him fueled her lust until she writhed against him with acute urgency, every part of her aching and throbbing for his touch.

Never had she wanted to slake her lust this badly. Her worry about Nanu’s past. Poof! Her concern for her brother. Poof! Her anxiety about her imprisonment. Poof!

Instead, she grabbed Nanu’s beefy shoulders and rubbed her breasts against his muscular chest while the seductive honey scent of him filled her with dizzy pleasure.

“I knew the first time I saw you,” he murmured against her neck. “I knew our bodies would fit together.” His teeth scraped over a pulse point at her throat. “I knew it would be magical between us.”

Their lips met again, and eagerly, she made darting forays with her tongue, desperate to enjoy more of his addictive flavor. Her tongue raked over one of his sharp teeth, and a flash of pain had her pulling away.

Nanu shuddered and groaned, refusing to release her. Instead, he sucked on her wound and the throb of pain receded in a flash of pleasure. The blissful sensations sank down her body, frisking her breasts and settling between her thighs.

Nanu lifted his head, his amber eyes glowing with a fierce heat. In a tender moment, he pressed their foreheads together and nuzzled his cheek against hers.

“I’ve been waiting for you my entire life,” he murmured before kissing her again.

Wait. What? His entire life. What did that even mean?

Before she quizzed him, his passionate kiss claimed her attention, and she promised herself she’d ask more questions later, once her brain was functioning at full capacity.

This place…what had he called it? A gattoc? The tent structure was strange yet romantic with the plants and flowers entwined in the frame. It reminded her of the promo holos for the Middlemarch Resort on the planet Tiraq. They catered for women and provided sexy holidays. She’d heard a woman might locate almost anything at the resort, but she hadn’t had the finances together or carved out the time to fritter away on a luxury resort holiday.

Nanu ran his hand across her chest, caressing the globes of her breasts. He followed with his lips, nibbling and kissing, tickling her flesh. She giggled secs before Nanu closed his mouth around one nipple. He drew hard and the tug sizzled downward to collect at her weeping sex.

Too much thinking.

She could plan later, and meantime, she’d enjoy the frak out of this sensual treat.

Nanu skimmed his hands over her sides, her rib cage, her hips. His touch, his kisses, his contrasting gentleness and roughness pushed her body higher until she let go of her thoughts and drifted on a sea of pleasure.

He moved down the gel-pad and silently indicated she should part her legs. He ran his fingers over her hips and blew a stream of warm air down the seam of her sex. Her quim bloomed under his attention, and she had difficulty keeping her lower body still. She ached and throbbed for completion, the rush toward arousal fast and almost brutal in its intensity.

“Please, Nanu. Don’t tease me.”

“Never,” he said, his tone solemn. “I wish to please you, so you’ll want to repeat this again.”

She grasped his head, jumping when his hair tendrils wound around her hips. They caressed and held her fast. Her lifeforce muscle jumped into a choppy beat until she understood he didn’t intend to injure her. Gradually, she calmed.

He licked her firmly and circled the tip of his tongue around her sex nub. Jazen relaxed since the man was skilled in physical matters. Best she savor this treat now since most men only cared for their own satisfaction.

The pleasure grew, building layer on layer until she trembled beneath his touch. She gasped as he ratcheted up his attentions and she shattered with such force she blanked out for a sec or two.

Nanu moved up the gel-pad and coaxed another kiss from her. She kept her eyes closed and clung to him. For an instant, she tasted lifeforce then decided it was her imagination. Her tongue no longer bled. Yes, it was an over active imagination because the sweet honey of his breath soon filled her senses.

She wriggled and issued a happy sigh as he notched his cock to her entrance. He pushed inside a fraction, pulled back out and slid deeper with the next stroke. A moan of pleasure escaped her. She’d been right. Those intriguing ridges hit some interesting spots inside her. Her flesh rippled around his girth. He pulled back and thrust inside her again. She groaned at the renewed pleasure, the swell of bliss. Those ridges…

She whimpered, desperate for more as his cock invaded and retreated. It was the strangest thing, His cock seemed to reduce then swell, but since it filled her with exquisite perfection, she didn’t protest or ask questions to appease her curiosity.

His hair tendrils stroked her face and her neck, her lips and one darted inside her ear. Wow. Weird, but it darted delight through her. Another tendril streaked around her throat, effectively holding her head still. One traced around her lips and slipped inside when she opened her mouth in surprise.

Other longer tendrils played with her breasts and soon she coasted on a different plane. Pleasure. Could a person expire from such pleasure?

Nanu ceased his strokes once he was fully embedded and his cock pulsed within her, massaging those magical spots inside her. A moan slipped free, her pelvis lifting as she greedily sought more.

“You’re hot and wet and tight,” he said, his voice thick with lust. “Perfect.”

Her fingernails dug into his shoulders, drawing him closer. “Move, Nanu. Please move.”

A brilliant grin stamped his features. “It would be my pleasure.”

He pulled back and surged inside her, his strokes measured at first until she adapted to his size. The pressure and the stimulation against the walls of her sex increased. It wasn’t painful. More different, but then everything with Nanu had been unexpected.

Jazen kept her eyes closed and gave herself over to his experienced seduction. His hair tendrils cuddled and hugged her flesh. His hands stroked. His cock stimulated her until she sizzled again. The sensations grew, even better than before. She shuddered as his shaft strummed against a perfect spot deep inside her body. She wondered if she’d stay in one piece or if she’d shatter with the force of her impending climax.

Nanu stroked into her again and groaned, the vibrations in his chest so hard, she felt them against her body. He pulled back and returned, his cock plunging deep. Something pinched her internally, the sharp pain pushing her into orgasm. The sensations streamed through her veins, down her legs and up her torso until the pleasure danced across her skin. Nanu’s cock pulsed, and his moan told her the ecstasy roared through him too.

Jazen sighed, and fatigue took hold without warning. Exhausted by her climax, she drifted on the edge of slumber, well-pleased with herself for not putting up a fight. A hair tendril slid across her throat, releasing its hold. She relaxed into the gel-pad and yawned.

Best sex ever.

Maybe she’d ask for a repeat before she left, although she’d miss Nanu.

One thing was certain. She sighed because she hated the idea of executing the warrant on him for an exchange of currency. Her conscience refused to entertain the betrayal now that she’d shared this intimacy with him. Although she had no proof, he’d spoken with conviction about the murder of the woman. Something about him and his friends signaled integrity, a personality quality she rarely met during her travels. Once she escaped, she’d investigate the case further because she abhorred the possibility of committing an innocent man. If he told the truth, at the very least she could attempt to have the warrant revoked.

Yes, she’d ask for a repeat of this unbeatable sex, and if she discovered he wasn’t guilty of the crime, assure the Indy crew she didn’t intend to turn in Nanu and go on her way. She was certain they’d release her if she promised not to betray their friend. Besides, once they understood she intended to retire from warrant-taking, they’d feel safer.

She felt a caress on her cheek as she slid deeper into sleep and smiled. A woman could get used to the strange abilities of his hair tendrils. She pushed at his chest. “Are you intending to move anytime soon?”

Nanu spluttered, seemed to hesitate and slipped from her body. Jazen caught his expression as he rolled away from her, a strange…was that confusion?

“Is something wrong?” She yawned for a second time, fatigue and worry catching up with her after weeks of research and tracing dead ends during her hunt for the missing cyborg.

“No, nothing is wrong. Would you enjoy a drink?”

Was he trying to drug her again? She hesitated. “Will you let me go if I promise not to mention you to the authorities?”

“I failed to do a good job if you’re intending to leave,” Nanu said drily.

“You can’t keep me here for much longer. My brother will worry about me.” At least she hoped Chobe would attempt to locate her if he lost contact. Then again, maybe not since she’d practically told him he needed to take responsibility for his own actions.

Nanu rearranged his body so he was facing her again. “I’ve heard females enjoy cuddling.”

Jazen stared at him, nonplussed by the strange conversation. She didn’t cuddle. She didn’t linger. She didn’t do relationships full stop.

Not in her line of work.

The men she came into contact with were her competitors, and she’d needed to keep one step ahead of them. With that kind of pressure, if she succumbed to her urges, she’d never lingered. Nanu had whisked her away to who knew where against her will, so why the frak would he expect her to cuddle?

“When are you going to release me?”

“When I’m ready. You intended to capture me.”

That was accusation in his tone. She lifted her chin and met his gaze without flinching. She refused to apologize for her chosen profession. Having a job, a purpose had saved her from a life in the brothel. Because that is where she would’ve ended up if her mentor hadn’t pulled her and Chobe from that life.

“I refuse to apologize for doing my job.”

“You intended to turn me in,” Nanu accused.

“You have a bounty on your head for murder,” she countered.

“I didn’t murder Rosevear.”

“Doesn’t matter.” But it should matter if an innocent man was wrongly accused of a crime.

“How many innocent beings do you deliver and collect the bounty?”

“It’s not my job to determine guilt or innocence.” Yet despite her words, it bothered her to think she might consign an innocent to death.

“So you hide behind your job. As long as you snare your target and receive your currency.”

His words stung, and unwillingly, her mind wandered back to some of her recent jobs. She’d captured a woman and her son and collected the bounty paid by the husband. The woman had pleaded to let her flee. She’d cried and sworn and pleaded some more. She’d stated the man had wanted his son to go into the family business. She’d said her husband intended to commit her to a planet that specialized in containing those with mental issues. Neither she nor her son would have normal lives once Jazen escorted her to the city base of the woman’s husband.

Most of her captives pleaded with her, promised riches and rewards if she forgot she’d ever seen them. They proclaimed their innocence as Nanu did. Most of them lied. She was the warrant-taker and the charges were nothing to do with her. She frowned and shifted uneasily, not wanting to focus on the task ahead of her.

“Why are we here?” She wrinkled her nose. “Wherever this gattoc thingy is.”

“That’s for me to know and you to find out.”

A teasing light lit his amber eyes, and she smiled before she recalled her situation. “Am I still a prisoner?”

“My captive.”

Once again, he sounded smug and that irked her. “You won’t get away with this.”

“I believe I have.”

Yes, there was no doubt about his arrogance this time.

Was the man trying to aggravate her? No. The better question was why the man was trying to aggravate her. At least she didn’t fear for her life. The man had already had his way with her and it hadn’t been against her will.

She didn’t know what was going on or why she was here, and even worse, an explanation of why she wasn’t putting up a fight or objecting strongly failed to emerge in her confused brainbox. But she was tired. Maybe that was it. What with the pressure Chobe was putting on her and her trying to learn about the missing cyborg, she hadn’t slept well. Exhaustion lay at the root of her passive behavior. Yeah, that was it. She’d try to sleep and once she woke refreshed, she’d determine how to escape. Yes, that plan sounded perfect.

She’d lull him with cooperation and spring a surprise escape on him when he least expected an attempt.

Nanu stared at the smooth tan skin of her back, the faint shadow of spikes down the line of her spine and attempted to shake away his confusion. His father and uncles had told him once he found the one and his inner beast awakened, the mating would proceed on a timetable. He’d make love to his mate and he’d lock in place to ensure conception.

That hadn’t happened.

He sifted through his mind, attempting to recall the advice offered by his father so many rotations ago.

Make sure your female drinks plenty of fluids and that you take time to feed her. Eat and drink too because the mating and locking process uses much energy.

No problem there. He’d asked the chef in the castle kitchens to prepare a selection of foods for them and he had a supply of nectar juices and fresh water. At least that part of the plan was under control. The rest though…something was amiss. The sex with Jazen had left him satisfied, but the lack of locking concerned him.

A soft snore came from Jazen, and Nanu was momentarily charmed until his dire musings took over, driving him to distraction. Moving with stealth, he rose to wander the gattoc, his unease making him restless.

For a sec, he considered leaving to consult with his friends. His inner beast growled instantly, and his shoulders slumped. Pay attention to your inner beast. More words of wisdom from his father.

Nanu stomped to the entrance of his gattoc and stared out at the trees. He inhaled the fresh green scent, and his gaze followed the path of a bright blue butterfly. Leeam and Sheera had worked magic with his gattoc. Everything about it was perfect, so why wasn’t this mating taking in the correct manner?

Jazen murmured in her sleep, a pained cry, and Nanu whirled, his gaze scanning his gattoc. Nothing was out of place. She gave another muffled cry, and he strode to her side and crouched. His hair tendrils reached for her, one stroking her face and another her shoulder.

She calmed, his touch seeming to soothe her. Nanu stared at her, his tension easing. She was here in his gattoc.

That was all that mattered.

Consternation In The Gattoc

Jazen woke in Nanu’s arms. He wasn’t asleep. Instead, he was watching her with his amber gaze. A smile curved across his lips, slow and sexy, and her lifeforce muscle pumped faster. Heat gathered in her cheeks, unusual since she rarely blushed.

“It makes me happy when I watch you.”

Men had complimented her and told her of her beauty. Men who wanted to trick her. Men who wanted to fuck her.

She’d always chortled, always wrinkled her nose as if they were lying or she disbelieved them. In her occupation, beauty became a hindrance because people watched, studied and remembered good genes. Strength, agility and the ability to blend were preferable to harmonious looks. But Nanu’s rapt expression told her he spoke the truth or at least the truth as he saw it. Something inside her melted into gooey and soft. A dangerous emotion for a warrant-taker.

He caught her gaze and stroked his fingers down her shoulder without breaking their connection. “Are you hungry?”

She considered the question. “Yes, I believe I am.”

“Good. Let me make us a meal.”

“Can we talk?”

He smiled and this time it didn’t reach his eyes. “Not yet, but soon.”

She averted her gaze then, desperate to screen her reaction. Chobe would find her, and he’d rescue her from this situation—if she didn’t extract herself first.

“I’ll get us something to eat and drink.”

Nanu rose and strode over to a woven basket sitting in the corner of the gattoc. His lack of clothing didn’t bother him in the slightest. As he opened the basket, she studied his broad copper shoulders and strong back, his hard, rounded buttocks. He’d told her he trained most days with the other members of the Indy crew, and it showed. Most pilots of her acquaintance possessed spongy stomachs and sloppy manners. She kept herself fit, something her mentor insisted on, and it helped with her captures, gave her an extra edge.

He lifted the basket and carried it over to her. Nanu sat beside her and stole a kiss before he opened it. Food scents wafted to her, and her stomach let out a rumble.

He grinned. “We’ll fix that in a moment.” He pulled out a bottle of sparkling cacjuice along with two goblets. With easy competence, he opened the bottle and poured for both of them. He handed her one and settled beside her before lifting his own in a toast. “To you, Jazen.”

She stared into her goblet, wary until he drank from his without hesitation.

“Go on. Drink,” he urged.

“I can’t drink to myself.”

“All right.” Nanu gazed into the distance then smiled. “How about drinking to a happy and prosperous future?” He held his goblet out, a hint of challenge shining through.

She jerked up her chin and clinked her goblet to his. “To the future.”

Nanu drank deeply before rummaging through the basket. He pulled out roast capon, an interesting pie that she immediately wanted to try for research and four bright red fruits, each the size of her fist. “What will you eat first?”

“The pie please.”

He cocked his head. “It sounds as if pie is a favorite.”

“During my childhood, I spent many hours in the kitchens at my mother’s place of employment.” Jazen snorted at the sanitized version of her story. “The cook baked pies, using the ingredients she had in the pantry. She showed me how to make them.” She peeked at him, judging his interest in her tale. Most men of her acquaintance preferred to discuss warrants and weapons and capture tactics. Her lifeforce muscle did this weird flipflop on seeing his smile, the warm glow in his eyes. His clear attentiveness.

“It’s good to learn different skills,” Nanu said.

Encouraged, she continued, giving more of herself than she’d ever done to someone unrelated to her. “I’ve been saving my commissions. When I retire from warrant-taking, I intend to open a pie shop.”

She assessed his reaction to the dream that kept her going when times were tough. She’d own her business and keep it small. The decisions would come from her, and she’d be beholden to no one.

“It’s good to have goals.” Nanu’s tone was one of approval. “My brother and I wanted to open a mechanical business, repairing spaceships…”

He trailed off and Jazen saw the fleeting pain in him when he spoke of his brother.

“Pies are a perfect food,” she blurted, wanting to drive away his sadness. “They don’t require a serving dish since they’re self-contained. What is your favorite? Mine is a savory pie with chunks of meat and herbs.”

His gentle smile crept back, and she breathed again as he returned to the present.

“It is difficult to pick a favorite. I think a… No. Try this one,” he urged and cut a large portion for her.

When she hesitated, he cut off a small corner of the wedge and lifted it, holding the savory bite to her lips. At his pressing, she opened her mouth and took the offering. As she chewed and the flavors burst across her tongue, he brushed away a crumb with his forefinger. The tenderness in his visage shocked her. He looked…enamored with her, yet this situation couldn’t be anything but temporary.

Determination. Her single-minded focus on her dream. Her persistence on following capture rules instead of extorting wealth in exchange for lenience. Her low birth. Her insistence on cleanliness. All those things combined to make her unworthy of romantic attention from the men she dealt with on a cycle basis.

Her character and behavior put off most men.

“So how does this pie rate with your favorite one?”

“It’s delicious,” she said, glad to have the pie to focus on. Thinking about Nanu and trying to forecast his actions confused her. “I’ve tasted nothing similar. It’s creamy and light and unusual because it has no lid to confine the filling.” She snatched the slice and tipped it upside down. The filling remained intact in the pie.

“This is a recipe we collected during our travels.”

“Where? Which planet did it come from?”

He hesitated. “I don’t recall.”

Lie. But why would he dissemble about a pie? Unless he wanted to keep the source a secret. “Are you opening a pie shop too?”

“No, of course not. I can cook. We take turns on the Indy and never rely on pre-shrunk foodstuffs. If I ever leave the Indy, I’ll do something with ships. When I’m working with ships, either repairing or maintaining them or flying them, it’s not a chore because I enjoy it.”

Jazen approved of his confidence and wished for the same certainty and conviction in her plans. She might fail. The notion jarred her, twisted her stomach into a knot. No! This was her dream. She took a defiant bite of pie and focused on deciphering the ingredients.

Nanu portioned the capon and pushed the platter in her direction before picking up a leg for himself. He chewed on the meat and drank his cacjuice.

Jazen picked up her goblet while watching Nanu. She tried to tell herself she wished to work him out, but her attention lingered on his lips, shiny from the capon juices.

“If you keep staring at me, we’re moving back to the gel-pad,” Nanu announced.

Unbidden, her gaze darted to his groin, and she stared in fascination at his cock. The ridges appeared more prominent than she recalled, not that she’d taken in much during their joining. Instead the sensations had claimed her, and she’d been the recipient of his generosity in making certain she enjoyed their mating as much as him.

She savored another bite of pie, and this time it was him who stared. His hair tendrils lifted and waved around his head, the gentle hum they emitted soothing rather than weird. A crumb tickled the corner of her mouth and she licked it free.

Nanu placed his partially eaten leg of capon back down on the platter without taking his gaze from her. Secs later, he pounced. He scooped her up and carried her to the gel-pad, heedless of the goblet that toppled to the gattoc floor.

His lips stemmed any argument, the caress of his mouth against hers killing every single objection. She stroked a waving hair tendril and relaxed into his embrace. The man had skills, and she intended to enjoy every sec before she escaped.

Nanu slid from her body after once again failing to lock in place. Every part of him claimed her as his life partner, so why did his cock fail to lock each time they fucked? Instead, Jazen had fallen into a deep sleep. From memory, that part was normal.

Nanu cursed under his breath, distress and anxiety setting his hair tendrils writhing and hissing. Aware of the possibility of wakening her, he edged from her embrace and strode from the gattoc into the fresh forest air that Leeam’s and Sheera’s Incorporeal magic had created.

Mogens. He’d speak with Mogens.

The seer would listen and offer advice. He’d read the clouds to discern the future, although Nanu wasn’t sure he wanted to learn of the coming cycles if his mating to Jazen failed.

He watched his lover for long secs, listened to her deep, even breathing. She’d slumbered for ages last time, and his father had told him a life mate always slept after loving, especially during the first days. He’d speak to Mogens and arrive back before she awakened.

Decision made, he pulled on clothes and boots then crept to the far end of the forest and fumbled for the invisible lever that would open the door to his chamber. He located it without difficulty, and his locks opened with a low clunk.

The soldier outside his door came to attention, his steely gaze watchful, his muscles taut as he prepared to spring into action.

“Stand down.” Nanu made a mental note to inform Ellard of his soldier’s dedication on what must be a boring assignment. “I need to speak to Mogens. I shouldn’t be long. Jazen—the prisoner—is asleep at present. I doubt she’ll locate the exit, but if she does, make sure she doesn’t escape.”

“Yes, sir,” the soldier said, standing military-straight in his hunter-green uniform.

His green eyes and black hair indicated his shifter status, but one eye was a slightly darker shade of green. He might have lost the ability to shift. Eye color was the usual indication of a loss of shifter abilities, and Nanu approved of Ellard’s policy to hire any fit and intelligent men as guards at the palace rather than follow his father’s edict of healthy feline shifters only. Thanks to Mogens and the medical team, some of the shifters who lost their powers to shift due to a stealthy attack by the House of Cawdor were recovering.

“I shouldn’t be long,” Nanu promised.

“Yes, sir,” the soldier acknowledged, and Nanu headed off in search of Mogens.

He discovered Mogens pulling weeds in his medicine garden, the seer’s favorite place to spend his cycle. Verdant plants filled every space in the corner of the bright and sunny castle grounds. Floral scents bombarded his nostrils, and he ducked when a buzzing insect dive-bombed his head. His hair tendrils hissed a warning.

“That is interesting,” Mogens said, staring at his hair. A tiny arrow of black feathered through Mogens white countenance.

“Yes,” Nanu agreed. “It’s most disconcerting when they act independently.”

Mogens peered at him. “I didn’t expect to see you for many cycles. Is something wrong?”

“No. Yes.” Nanu hunched his shoulders before a single hair tendril whacked his cheek. “Ow.” He rubbed his stinging face.

“Unusual.” Mogens’s violet eyes filled with unexpected humor. “Let us have a seat and you can tell me of your problems.”

Nanu followed Mogens to a secluded bench deep in the center of his garden. It sat beneath a framework draped with a vine bearing pink and blue and violet flowers. Each colored flower was a different size and shape even though they appeared to bloom on the same plant.

He sucked in a deep breath and drew the scent into his lungs. The tension in his muscles released as he sank onto the bench beside Mogens.

“This is the tranquil plant from the planet Floridia. It bears special properties which help to relax and clear the mind. I always sit here before I read the clouds.”

Nanu rolled his shoulders to loosen his muscles. He inhaled, yet the turmoil in his mind refused to settle.

“Is something wrong with Jazen?” Mogens asked.

“No, she is fine. I left her sleeping. It’s me who has the problem.”

“Oh?”

“Everything went well. Jazen is attracted to me, and our joining was most enjoyable for both of us. The problem is that I should lock inside her on completion. This ensures a successful mating. This…this isn’t happening,” Nanu confessed. Mogens wouldn’t poke fun at him as Kaya might have, but the seer’s advice might not be what he wanted to hear. Failure to lock was a serious thing on Indra. This would set alarm bells ringing for a potential life mate.

“Is this unusual?”

“Once my inner beast awakens to a female and chooses her as his life mate, his goal is to plunder and breed the next generation. Children are wealth on our planet. I… I have failed.”

“Surely there must be anomalies,” Mogens said.

“I never heard of this problem occurring. Once the inner beast chooses, nature takes its course.”

“You are of different races. It’s true you’re both humanoid, but perhaps your differences will yield varied results.”

Nanu shrugged. “When I am with Jazen, all I think of is caring for and protecting her. I wish to give her everything—my love, my seed, my child.”

“Can she still get with child without the locking process?”

“I don’t know.”

“Is it possible she is using a contraception to avoid conception?”

Nanu’s head jerked upward. “Huh, I never asked.”

“Or, it might be her parentage. Some races do not conceive unless the mind accepts the mating. Is it possible that your races are not compatible, and this is nature’s way of avoiding a mistake?”

“No.” Nanu refuted this last suggestion. “My inner beast would never steer me wrong.”

Mogens reached over and patted his hand. “I agree. All I’m saying is there are many reasons for the mating not proceeding in a traditional manner. My suggestion is to return to your gattoc and spend time with her. Try to learn of her and understand her personality—her hopes and her dreams.”

“She wishes to retire and open a pie shop.”

“Good lad. You’ve learned about her already. If she is speaking of her future, this means she trusts you at a basic level. You need to strengthen this trust, bond emotionally and physically. Use this time wisely and savor the positives instead of worrying about the end result.”

Nanu listened closely. Mogens gave excellent counsel. As Camryn often said, he was worrying about maybe instead of living in the now. Nanu rose and thrust out his hand to Mogens. “Thank you for your advice.”

Mogens ignored Nanu’s outstretched hand and drew him into a comforting embrace instead. Nanu relaxed to savor Mogens affection and friendship, and once again, he gave silent thanks to the goddess for thrusting the crew of the Indy into his sphere.

Mogens released Nanu and stepped back, his face a striking pearly white.

“I follow your suggestions with Jazen.”

“Has she tried to escape?”

“No, she hasn’t. Not that I have given her a chance to worry about an escape. We’ve talked and eaten and made love.”

Mogens glowed with whiteness and approval. “Clear communication is the perfect basis for a relationship. I have confidence in you, Nanu. You will win Jazen. I only hope you gain her loyalty and her love. Your life and also Amme’s depend on her.”

“I believe Ry is attempting to wipe the warrant from the active files. Amme’s too, now that we’ve learned she is in danger.”

“An excellent suggestion. I shall ask Ry how this strategy is working.”

“We’re a long way from Indra.” Nanu lowered his voice. “Earth is even farther away. It’s only pure bad luck that has set Jazen on our trail.”

“She excels at her job. There will be others as tenacious.”

Nanu sighed. “You’re right. I’d better return to Jazen before she awakens. Thank you for listening.”

Mogens pressed his palms together and bowed his head. “You are welcome.”

Nanu left Mogens and discovered a bounce in his step. Mogens was right. He needed to trust in his beast and enjoy the process. And most of all, he had to secure Jazen’s loyalty and love, so she never betrayed him or his friends. A difficult process, but he flew on the Indy.

They laughed in the face of impossible.

The Brother’s Arrival Causes Suspicion

“Chobe, we’re entering Viros airspace. They wish to know our purpose since we didn’t acquire a pre-arrival permit.”

Chobe Lav straightened from his sprawl and scowled at his business partner Hanoid. His mind worked busily as he determined and discarded excuses. “Tell them our ship has developed mechanical problems. The engine is overheating, and I don’t wish to place my wife in danger by risking a flight to our intended destination of Dalcon.”

“And if they still ask questions?”

“Tell them I’d also intended to meet with my sister.” He wasn’t sure what Jazen was doing, but it appeared she was on the trail of a claim. Perhaps a benefit for him. “Don’t offer this information unless the first excuse fails.”

Hanoid rushed back to the bridge while Chobe flicked through the bond notices. He had an excellent memory, and although warrant-taking was no longer his chief profession, he still dabbled. He’d told his self-righteous sister he imported and sold luxury goods when he wasn’t pursuing bounties. The truth. He grinned because she wouldn’t approve of the details.

These days he ran his own gang with his partner-in-crime Hanoid. He invested and sold in the valuable slave trade, and it made them rich men. A wealthy man had expenses, which was why he wanted Jazen’s entire savings, not the crumbs she’d sent him. He intended to take over the territory of a rival gang, and for that, he required mercenaries and weapons. While the initial expenses were immense, the sweet reward beckoned and drove him onward toward their goal.

Soon, no one would dare call him a nothing or a nobody again.

* * * * *

Happier after his discussion with Mogens, Nanu strode back into the castle, intent on getting back to Jazen. He grinned. He’d never raced to a woman with this eagerness. Normally, it was the morning after and he ran in the other direction. Him and Kaya both.

“Nanu!” Kaya hailed him before he hung a left into the corridor leading to his chamber. “Wait!”

The serious tone in her voice had him slowing his steps instead of blowing her off. He grinned again, amused by the Earth expression. One day, perhaps, he might take Jazen there and show her the stunning and majestic blue planet. Of course, this might place Amme and Marcus in danger, so maybe not.

“Spaceport security contacted Ry. Jazen’s brother has arrived.”

Nanu stilled. “Her brother?”

“Chobe Lav.”

Anxiety blasted Nanu. If Jazen attempted to leave now, he wasn’t sure he’d control his inner beast. If they’d locked and mated properly, he’d not have a problem, but with the ties only on his side, he hated to risk her leaving. He shoved aside the insidious, viperous whispers about never locking and completing the mating.

“Is he asking for Jazen?”

“No, and that’s the weird thing. At first, he told us he had engine trouble and wanted to stay to repair his ship rather than risk his wife in deep space. Then, he said he’d come to visit his sister.”

“Why didn’t he say that first?”

Kaya bobbed her head, her blue hair swinging and catching on her pointed ear. “My sentiments exactly. Ry said it might be innocent, but we’ve decided not to mention Jazen and wait for his next move.”

“You’ll keep me appraised? I can leave my chamber for short periods of time.”

“Won’t Jazen notice your absences?”

“She goes to sleep after each round of sex. I tire her out.” He met Kaya’s gaze with smugness.

“Huh,” Kaya said. “Are you sure you’re doing the right thing? Tell her if she hurts you, I will beat her arse. A promise, not a threat.”

Nanu gave Kaya a quick hug, buoyed by her show of support even though the stakes had raised with the brother’s arrival.

“Is Ellard having him investigated?”

“He is,” Kaya confirmed. “Ellard told us to give you a message. You need to pump Jazen for information about her brother. The more information we have, the easier it will be to check into this Chobe Lav’s past.”

“I believe he is a warrant-taker too.”

“We’ll check,” Kaya said. “You haven’t made life easy for yourself.”

Nanu shrugged with nonchalance, but his hair tendrils writhed and hissed.

“Whoa.” Kaya eyed his hair with suspicion. “That’s new.”

Nanu struck a pose, one hand on his hip. “Another weapon in my arsenal, or at least the tendrils will be once I’ve mated. At present, my control over them isn’t great.”

Kaya winked at him. “Better get on with the mating then. I need my friend back. I’ll tell Ry you’ll try to learn more about the brother. See you later.” She jogged away and disappeared around the bend in the corridor.

Nanu sucked in a breath and strode back to his chamber. Nothing like a little pressure.

Jazen woke alone on the gel-pad. She sat upright and stretched her hands above her head. She hadn’t slept so well for cycles and her muscles flowed with ease—limber and loose after her vigorous exercise. Her belly let out a rumble, and she rifled through the basket for more of the delicious pie.

“Nanu?” Chewing, she scanned the gattoc. She rose and wandered to the doorway of the tent structure. “Ah, you’re there.”

“Stretching my legs.” Nanu lifted his arms above his head, flexing his muscles. “Did you have a good sleep?”

Jazen blushed, the reaction so out of character, she averted her gaze to stare at her bare feet He wore trews and she remained naked.

“Why do you have clothes?”

“The biting insects are ferocious during the evening. I didn’t wish to volunteer my flesh.”

Her stomach gurgled again, loudly enough for Nanu to hear.

“You’re hungry. I am too. I’ll prepare a meal for us. If you wish to bathe, there is a waterfall and a warm hot spring to the right of my gattoc. It’s why I placed my gattoc here. Take your robe with you because of the insects.”

A robe. Jazen rubbed her arm as she spied the two green robes sitting near the gel-pad. She hadn’t noticed them earlier, because Nanu drew her attention.

“Or wait until after we eat and we can visit the pool together.”

She reached for a robe, looking forward to the excursion. Nanu interested her, fascinated her more than any man of her acquaintance. He discussed a variety of topics and listened to her opinions. He hadn’t denigrated her dreams of opening a pie shop. The one time she’d spoken of it to Chobe, he’d acted as if she were short of brainbox filling. In other words, an idiot for having such a vision for her future.

“That sounds nice.” Nice? What was Nanu doing to her? She was a skilled warrant-taker and feared by those attempting to flee. She shook her head, trying to nudge good sense into prominence.

“I have an idea,” Nanu said. “We’ll have a picnic by the pool.”

“What is a picnic? And what about the insects?”

“I have a special lotion that will make our flesh less attractive to the bugs. The food is packed already. Lie facedown on the gel-bed, and I’ll rub it on for you.” He pulled a small bottle from the basket.

“I can do it.”

“Why when it would give me such pleasure to do it for you?”

She stared at him and saw nothing but a warm glow and friendliness. She shrugged and retreated to the gel-pad.

Nanu followed her and sat on the corner of the gel-pad to remove his boots. His tunic came next then he stood to remove his trews.

She blinked at him and her chest-muscle raced, pushing lifeforce through her veins. “Why are you taking off your clothes?”

“Because I hoped you’d return the favor.”

“Oh.” Her gaze roved his muscled chest and darted down to his groin. His ridged shaft thrust outward. “I’d enjoy that.”

He chuckled and gestured her to roll onto her stomach.

She obeyed, part of her puzzled at her willingness to follow his instructions. She should try to escape. But instead of taking advantage of his absence, she’d sought food. And now…now her belly hollowed and the place between her legs tingled, eager for his possession. Another rarity for her. In the past she’d stayed for one round of lusty sex and gone on her way to pursue her target.

Twice and hungering for more was most unlike her normal behavior.

The top of the bottle clicked as Nanu opened it and secs later, a dollop of lotion struck the middle of her back.

“Oh! That’s cold.”

He tapped her backside hard enough for it to sting. “Don’t be a baby.”

Jazen stilled, shocked and confused by the rush of sexual heat that accompanied the slap. She bit back a groan and closed her eyes. Had Nanu drugged her food or drink? No, he’d consumed the same food as her without hesitation.

His hands settled on her back, and he spread the lotion over her flesh.

“Don’t stare at my spines.”

“I’m not,” he said. “Although I’ve noticed if I touch them, you cry out with pleasure.”

“I do not.”

“Is that a dare?”

She groaned as she heard the smile in his voice. “No, it’s not a dare.”

“Don’t tense up, Jazen. I want you relaxed and happy.”

Any more relaxed and she’d be comatose and incapable of doing a thing, let alone attempting an escape.

“Nothing to say,” he teased.

“No.”

His laughter warmed her through, and she relaxed under his stroking hands. His fingers pressed and rubbed and smoothed. They drifted closer to her back spines, and she shivered, unable to summon the desire to tell him to stop. He poured another dollop of lotion on her lower back and feathered teasing strokes over her buttocks and her upper thighs.

“Your skin changes color at my touch.”

“I believe my mother has a little of the Morph race in her bloodlines. She used to change her appearance. My skin changes color at times, but I have little control over the transformation. My brother inherited my mother’s skill. He’s even better at changing his appearance than my mother. It makes him an excellent warrant-taker.

Nanu’s hands stilled for an instant, and she wished she hadn’t spoken or shared this part of her background. A mistake.

But then his hands shifted into motion again, rubbing the delicate floral lotion down the backs of her legs all the way to her feet.

“Your toes are webbed.”

“Yes.” She sighed. “My brother doesn’t have this so I presume it came from my father. Another feature that does nothing to aid me in my daily life.”

Nanu tapped her buttocks to get her attention. “You have feet that hold you upright. Toes that grip and aid your balance. Don’t complain, woman. Your body is functional, and that is all any of us needs to live. I’m done. Roll over so I can do your front.”

“I can do that myself.”

“And deprive me of the treat? Woman, please gift me this boon.”

“You talk weird sometimes.”

“A product of my travels,” he admitted. “I pick up speech and other habits during my visits. Some I discard while others I keep. I learn and add to my data at each destination.”

Jazen pictured her brother who mocked the way she did things and her quest to learn more about pies from every kitchen in every city and town they visited while they’d worked together. He’d belittled her, told her she was wasting her time. Nanu didn’t do that. He was an original and treated her as a gift. The man made certain she gained pleasure from their joining. He talked to her and listened. Best of all, he offered encouragement and didn’t treat her dream as a joke.

She…she enjoyed his company. A lot.

“Jazen?”

She rolled onto her back, her mind in turmoil. She liked him even though he was holding her against her will.

But you intended to imprison him and collect the bounty on his head.

Confused, she took the coward’s way and closed her eyes.

Nanu hummed and tipped lotion on her stomach. He spread the unguent over her breasts, her shoulders and hips. His touch didn’t creep into sexual, yet every muscle in her body sang with pleasure.

“My turn,” he said.

She jolted from her dreamy relaxation and fumbled with the bottle as he handed it to her. Luckily, the lid kept the contents from spilling onto the gel-pad.

Nanu nudged her out of the way and reclined, his amber eyes sparkling in anticipation, “I can’t wait to have your hands on me.”

His words confirmed his open appreciation of her, and his cock appeared erect now, the dips and ridges lining his shaft diverting her attention.

“I doubt whether any insect would bite me there. They wouldn’t draw lifeforce given the ridges.”

But she wanted to explore him as he’d investigated her body. Jazen set the lotion aside and straddled his hips. She reached for his shaft and ran her fingers along his length. He froze, his attention on her hand.

Jazen continued her exploration. She ran her forefinger along the edge of one ridge, her touch tentative at first. Nanu groaned on her second pass, and she jerked her hand away, fearful she’d hurt him.

“Please, Jazen. Please keep touching me.”

A bead of clear liquid formed on the head of his cock. Ah, not pain. Happier at the discovery, she continued her journey. She wiped away the liquid with a quick pass of her thumb and another drop of pre-liquid beaded in its place. Confidence radiated through her and along with it, bravery. She dipped her head and ran her tongue down the length of his shaft before licking away his pre-liquid. His salty flavor burst across her taste buds, followed by a chaser of the same sweet honey she enjoyed each time they kissed.

An urge to gather more of that addictive honey had her drawing his cap into her mouth and sucking.

Nanu gasped, his fingers weaving into her hair and holding her close. She tensed for a sec before she realized she could free herself without difficulty.

“Jazen.”

The pleading in his voice dispersed her momentary fear, the memories of back in the brothel the cycle before she and Chobe accepted Azarious’s offer to take them under his wing. Nanu wouldn’t hurt her. Every instinct told her this, besides, if he intended to abuse her he would’ve done it by now.

Without hesitation, she took Nanu’s cock into her mouth, licking and sucking until he released more honey. His hips lifted, driving him deeper. A gurgle of distress burst from her and he backed away, removing the choking sensation. He lifted his head, his concern clear.

“Sorry. That is so pleasing. It’s mind-stealing and delightful. I lost my good sense and acted without consideration.”

His immediate apology had her smiling, her panic retreating. No one could compare him to the lowlifes of her childhood.

Nothing.

“Try to keep still,” she murmured.

“You don’t have to do this. We can fuck instead.”

“We can do that later. Right now, I want to make you feel special.”

He sat up and cupped her face in his hands, a gentle smile curving his lips. She was coming to love that smile and returned it.

“I’ll take as much as you wish to give me,” he said, then he kissed her with that honey sweetness that made her so hot.

A flicker of her tongue gathered his sweet taste, and everything in her world righted again. She knew what she wanted in her immediate future.

Nanu.

The urge to please him and give back in the way he’d already given to her filled her with simmering need. Another strange thing when escape should fill her mind.

She gripped his cock and closed her mouth around the tip. When he remained still, his amber gaze trained on her, she relaxed enough to explore and learn his body and the touches he enjoyed most. She sucked and squeezed, stroked and slid her tongue over him until tension rode his strong body.

“Not going to last for much longer,” he whispered. “You don’t have to let me come in your mouth. Ride me, so I can watch your luscious breasts bounce.”

She paused, losing her rhythm, and lifted her head to stare at him. “You’re different from most men. They don’t care about me or what I want.”

He cupped her hip and caressed her upper thigh with his blunt fingers. Friction from his callused skin pushed signals of pleasure down her leg.

His smile held joy and excitement tinged with masculine heat and lust. “Then aren’t you lucky you’re with me? Ride me.”

She clambered into place and guided his shaft to her entrance. This was better than facing her fears and continuing extra close contact with the one-eyed snake. Later, once she became more confident with Nanu she could—

Aghast at her thoughts, she took him inside her, sinking down and savoring the stretch of her feminine flesh. The entire time she watched his expression, and once again, she saw nothing but pleasure and acceptance of her. He let her go at her own pace, his expression relaxed as if he was enjoying every sec of their joining.

His pleasure wasn’t translating to her, unfortunately.

The ridges of his cock pushed against her inner walls, yet her nub received not a shred of stimulation. It wasn’t the same with her in this position. Frustration grew as she strained for the same feel-good satisfaction she’d experienced earlier.

“What’s wrong?”

She lifted again and sank downward. “Nothing.”

He gripped her hips, firmly but not to the point of pain. “Don’t lie.”

“I…” She was lying, but stirring his temper rated as plain stupid. They were alone and although she trained to keep a working fitness, honesty made her admit he was bigger and stronger than her. He’d overpower her in a sec.

As if to prove her point, he lifted her off him with ease and tugged her down to lie beside him.

“Have I hurt you? Or forced you to do anything against your wishes? Have I threatened you?”

“N-not recently.”

He dipped his head, his manner curt. “Then why do you need to lie to me? My friends and I value honesty. If you’re in trouble, tell me and we’ll try to help you. If I’m upsetting you, inform me, and I’ll try to fix the problem.”

She stared at him. “You and your friends imprisoned me, then you whisked me away to your gattoc. And you wonder why I’m watching what I say or do. I’m in the middle of a forest with no idea where I am. Ugly monsters and dangerous natives might skulk behind the trees. I am uneasy. Are you going to do anything about that?”

“You wish to leave?”

“You’re keeping me prisoner.”

“You’re not bound or chained. I’ve fed you and made sure you’re safe. I’ve made love to you, and don’t tell me that was against your wishes, because it wasn’t.” Nanu held her gaze, and she was the first to break their connection.

“I don’t have my freedom.” How had they gone from making love to a disagreement so quickly?

“You intend to apprehend me and collect the bounty.”

Her gaze flew to his in consternation. “No. No, I believe you when you say you didn’t kill that woman.”

Nanu jumped to his feet and paced, offering her a flash of muscled buttocks before she glimpsed his erection, still glossy with her arousal juices. “How do I know you haven’t contacted the agency controlling the bounty process? Or called other warrant-takers to help you capture me? Your brother?”

“My brother? No, he is a businessman. He imports and trades goods. He hasn’t worked as a full-time warrant-taker for almost two rotations. Sometimes he does the occasional job, but he concentrates on his trading.”

“I see.” He rubbed the stubble on his chin, the rasp loud in the sudden silence. Even the birds outside paused their chirping. “Why have you changed your mind? Surely the loss of bounty will pose a problem for you?”

“I-I like you.” She bit her lip as the blurted words echoed inside the gattoc. “It’s true. You’re different from other men. I look at you… I see you and all I want to do is steal a kiss. I’m not thinking about the bounty.”

A broad grin broke across his stern features, his amber eyes shining with pleasure again. Jazen stared, longing to touch him again and to put the accusations behind them.

“You want me.” He prowled closer, reminding her of a jungle beast stalking prey.

“N-no. Maybe. Okay, yes. Why wouldn’t I want to repeat the pleasure of joining with you again?”

“There is no reason we can’t enjoy ourselves together,” he said. “Let’s strike a deal. You spend three more cycles here with me, and if you still wish to leave after that, I’ll release you.”

“Am I meant to accept your word?”

Nanu cocked his head, his humor absent now. “I only have your pledge you won’t try to capture me for the bounty. If you take me to Indra or one of the prison planets, I’m as good as dead once the leader of the corporation gets his hands on me.”

Jazen grimaced, accepting this truth even though she didn’t like it.

Nanu swallowed, hardly believing the promise he’d made to Jazen even as his inner beast roared at losing her. Three cycles to get this mating to take and secure her full loyalty. No pressure or anything.

His promise might cost him everything.

He sucked in a breath and let it ease out, trying to control his wayward emotions, most fueled by his beast. His muscles pulsed even though he remained still, and his hair tendrils swayed around his head, letting out soft hisses instead of the humming that denoted pleasure.

“You’re staring at me.”

“I am,” he agreed. “Because I enjoy looking at you. Your feminine grace and inner strength. Your lithe body.”

As he complimented her, a soft blush suffused her cheeks. Charming. While initially she’d come across a take-no-prisoners woman, he was learning of her layers and seeing the scars she hid, those garnered from her childhood.

“Let me show you.” Nanu doubled back to the gel-pad and dropped beside her, all the while attempting to mute his rising panic. His beast wanted her, and if the mating had gone to plan, he would’ve locked inside her. Once that happened, his teeth would drop, and he’d take her lifeforce, cementing them together for as long as they both lived.

It had worked for his grandsire.

It had worked for his father.

So why the frig wasn’t the locking process working for him when his beast insisted Jazen was his other half?

Despite his mental turmoil, Nanu took her in his arms. The sec their bodies touched, their limbs shifting into a comfortable embrace, his inner beast ceased its whiny complaints. His hair tendrils launched into their tuneful hum, stroking her face and making Jazen giggle.

He nuzzled her mouth, enticing her to open to him. His two quick pecks on her lips brought a gurgle of amusement, and the lighthearted sound relaxed him further. His teeth dropped a fraction, filling his mouth with the honey-sweet taste indicative of their race.

Three cycles.

He’d do his best and try not to worry about the future and the trouble that stalked him with a predator’s determination.

Nanu kissed Jazen, his tongue stroking hers as he gloried in the personal contact with the woman he wanted to claim and desired above anyone else.

Chobe Makes Plan A

Chobe Lav sat in a ramshackle tavern on the lowest street of Viros in a dim corner that gave him a view of the crowded room. Lowest Street sat at the base of the mountain or hill, and if he wandered to the door and out to the central staircase, a mere spit away from the tavern, he’d see the castle perched at the summit. The entire city of Viros spread downward from the castle, each level becoming rougher and less salubrious the closer it was to the walls that surrounded the city.

Not bothering to conceal his sneer, Chobe surveyed the rough wooden bar, the makeshift tables and the few chairs. From what he’d seen, most customers propped themselves up at the bar or used a handy wall.

The place was a dump, but he hesitated to introduce himself to the society people who frequented the businesses and accommodation on the higher streets closer to the castle. No, he needed to keep a low profile while he worked out what the deal was with his sister. To keep his cover, he’d paid to get his ship serviced, funds he could scarce afford.

Phrull it. If he failed to lever more currency from Jazen, his plans would dust. He’d waste every bit of hard work—the time he’d invested to consolidate his position and the funds he’d tied up in his scheme. Irritated, he fisted his tankard and drank, the ale surprisingly tasty.

“Chobe.”

Hanoid, his business partner, slid into the empty chair opposite him. He was a large man who stood taller than Chobe. A tribal tattoo scarred the right side of his face, the black whorls and bold slashes giving off a sinister air. In contrast, he kept his black hair clean and shiny, confined in myriad braids, and he dressed in the best quality clothing.

“Any luck with the inquiries?”

“Your sister arrived with the crew of the Indefatigable. They’re friends with the king of Viros, and they stay at the castle.”

That was what Jazen’s tracker was telling him, yet her presence in the castle made little sense. A warrant-taker didn’t flaunt their existence. They skulked in the background. She’d told him she was on the trail of a bounty but hadn’t given away specifics. Her sticking to these people had to mean a large bounty. One big enough for her to take risks.

Chobe tapped his chin, considering. “Is she working at the castle? She often uses work to get closer to a target.” That had to be it. Nothing else made sense.

“I watched the comings and goings at the staff entrance. I saw no one matching the depiction you gave me. Does she have the same ability to change appearance as you?”

“No, she’d resemble the depiction.”

“I haven’t asked questions of the staff yet because I didn’t want to draw attention to my presence. They have security on the front and rear entrances. The soldiers are well-trained. You can’t sneak inside to locate your sister.”

“Her tracker doesn’t move.” Chobe confined his frustration to scratching at the faint scales on the back of his right hand when the urge to yank on his black hair, lift his gaze to the skies and holler rode him like a demon-hunter.

“Is she dead?”

“Possibly, but why would they keep a body in the middle of the castle? If she was dead, they’d move her.”

Hanoid ran his finger around the top of his tankard. “That is true. They’d attempt to contact the next of kin. You would’ve heard.”

Chobe sipped his ale, considering his options. “If Jazen doesn’t move from her current position, I’ll have to enter the castle and search for her myself.”

“Why don’t you front up and ask to speak to her?”

“They might ask nosy questions.” Chobe tapped his fingers on the rough tabletop.

“Tell them you want to see your sister, and she told you she was staying at the castle.”

Chobe sighed. Hanoid was right. It was the logical behavior, yet something about this situation made his stomach lurch with uncharacteristic fear. He’d learned not to ignore his gut, yet he couldn’t fathom what was causing his unease. Shoving aside his reservations, he gave a decisive nod.

“I’ll present myself at the castle gate and tell them I’ve come to visit my sister. A surprise reunion since we’re seldom in the same city. Where is Sergy? I’ll take her with me. The wife is an excellent touch. A pity we sold that last kid. He could’ve passed as Raffey.”

“Sergy has set up business in the hotel room we hired for her. She had a line of men waiting to fuck her when I passed.” Hanoid laughed, the harsh bray at odds with his pristine hair and dress. “The fake wife and son has helped us in the finance stakes. Hell, the fake wife has other advantages too, since she’s still earning us funds. A pity I don’t have a gullible sister.”

Chobe chuckled. “You do all right with contributing to the partnership. We’re even. I’ll collect Sergy and we’ll present ourselves at the castle. I’ll meet you back here this evening. Either way, we’ll move on with our plan. I’ll get funds from Jazen or at least learn where she is and how to get to her.”

A pity he’d failed at duplicating her hand print and retina read, the identification required to seize her stock of funds from the banker vault. While he could morph into a duplicate of his sister, the minute details were impossible for him to copy, which made this meeting and his other trickery important.

Later that afternoon, Chobe ambled toward the castle gates with Sergy on his arm. The blonde half-cyborg was the perfect foil to his own darkness, and they made an excellent team, working together for mutual benefit. She brought in currency and he offered his security and protection.

As they approached the gate, the two soldiers on the outer gate straightened, their gazes assessing them for danger.

“You there,” one said. “What is your business?”

“I have come to visit my sister.”

“Your sister? What is her name?”

“Jazen Yelhsa,” Chobe stated, praying that his sister still used the same false name they’d used during their early days of warrant-taking.

“Where does she work?”

Chobe offered his best charming smile. “To be honest, I’m not sure what she is doing now. It’s rarely our paths cross. She is a capable cook and sometimes takes kitchen jobs. She is also skilled at nursing and medicine. Let me speak to her, and you’ll soon learn I’m telling the truth.”

One dark-haired soldier assessed him, suspicion in his flinty gaze. After a drawn-out sec during which Chobe forced himself to remain affable, the soldier capitulated, the muscles in his austere face relaxing. “I shall consult with my superior.” He marched through the gate to the next set of gates, his navy-blue uniform smart and crisp.

The remaining soldier kept his weapon at hand and didn’t lose sight of his responsibilities even though Sergy attempted to flirt with him. Chobe’s first impressions were borne out. These soldiers were well-trained and disciplined. This efficiency made sneaking inside the castle difficult.

The first soldier returned, the whitelight reflecting off the golden braid trimming his uniform. “I’m to show you through to the assembly room. Captain Ryman Coppersmith will speak to you there.”

Interesting. The captain of the Indefatigable intended to speak with him. At least the soldier hadn’t foisted him off on an underling.

Chobe and Sergy followed the soldier to the second entrance gate. Another soldier stood waiting to escort them into the castle. They entered a side door into a luxury Chobe seldom witnessed. A glossy cream stone covered the floors. Matching pillars in a darker hue reminded him of a row of soldiers on duty. Artwork covered the walls. Portraits. Scenery. Sculptures stood in recesses within the wall, some small enough to secret into a pocket for later disposal. His fingers itched as he took in the wealth on display.

The soldier led them along a red carpet, so soft Chobe glanced back to see if they’d left a row of footprints behind them.

Once the carpet ended, the soldier wheeled left, and they entered a smaller, more informal room. Large windows overlooked a garden or what Chobe suspected was a garden since the tips of green-and-purple trees flickered in and out of his vision.

“Have a seat and help yourselves to refreshments,” the soldier said. “The captain will be with you shortly.” He stepped back and closed the door behind him.

“Should I pour you a drink, Chobe?” Sergy asked, excitement displayed on her tawny-beige face.

“What?” Chobe raked his hand through his hair, tense because of the closed door. It reminded him of the room he used to stay in at the brothel, although this room was a much prettier cage. More luxurious and cleaner. But a cage nonetheless.

“A drink?” Sergy repeated patiently.

“Please.” If he were Captain Coppersmith, he’d keep them waiting to ensure they remained off-balance. Or was he overthinking the situation?

The door opened as Sergy handed him a drink. Two men strolled into the room. Chobe recognized Captain Coppersmith by his black hair and piercing green gaze. This was a man who missed nothing, a man who’d make a bad enemy.

The second man was from an unfamiliar race. Although humanoid, his visage changed color as Chobe pivoted to greet him. Streaks of black dissected his features and melted into his white skin to create gray. Freaky. It was difficult not to gape, and he fixed his attention on the captain so as to not make a fool of himself.

“Good whitelight.” Captain Coppersmith inclined his head. “This is our medic, Mogens. You caught us on our way to visit the queen and her children.”

“Greetings,” Chobe said. “I am Chobe Lav. Thank you for agreeing to see me. I believe my sister is working with you, and I welcome this chance to see her. We haven’t seen each other in person for almost two rotations, although we are in frequent contact via comm.”

“I’m sorry, but Jazen isn’t here,” Coppersmith said.

Chobe blinked at the bald-faced lie. “But last time we spoke… I thought she intended to travel from Narenda to Viros with you.”

“No,” Coppersmith said. “At the last min, it was decided that she should stay to nurse the leader of the dragon race on Narenda. I’m afraid you’ve wasted your trip here. You’ll find your sister on Narenda.”

“I attempted to contact Jazen to inform her we’d be in the region and intended to visit,” Chobe said. “For some reason, she is not answering her comm.”

“Occasionally, bad storms rage between here and Narenda,” Mogens said. “Remember that storm that Ellard and Gweneth navigated? They were lucky to survive the push into the meteor field.”

Chobe scratched his head, needing to do something to stop his gaze straying to the medic again. The man’s face was growing darker, his chin and nose an ebony black with more streaks of black darkening his slate gray cheeks. “Ah… Yes, I’ll try to contact her again. We’ll be staying on Viros until repairs on our ship are completed.”

Coppersmith remained enigmatic, calm and in full control. “I’m sorry for your wasted journey. Narenda is a closed planet. I can put you in touch with the officials there so you can start your application for permission to land.”

A chill worked down Chobe’s spine, and once again, he was at a loss to explain the frisson of unease. This man—both these men—pushed him off-balance and left him floundering and irritated. At least he’d not displayed his frustration.

“That is an excellent idea,” he said. “They have promised our ship repairs will be complete within three cycles. Give me the direction for the officials, I’ll start the necessary communications.”

Coppersmith pulled a comm from his jacket and opened it. He tapped several commands, then held up his unit.

Chobe pressed his comm to Coppersmith’s and secs later, both beeped, signaling the exchange of information.

“We must leave now,” Coppersmith said. “Finish your drinks. The soldier will escort you out once you are ready to leave.”

“Thank you,” Chobe said, struggling to maintain his air of politeness. He knew his phrullin’ sister was somewhere in this castle, and if plan A didn’t work, he’d move onto plan B.

A Matter Of Trust

The last of the three cycles he’d promised Jazen arrived. Urgency and traces of outright panic thrummed through Nanu. Kaya would’ve scoffed at his uncharacteristic behavior, but he refused to go back on his promise to Jazen.

This was his problem, not hers.

His beast had chosen a woman of another race. Perhaps their genes weren’t compatible enough to form a child.

He ached inside, despite his broad smile for his lover.

Nanu reached for her hand, twining their fingers together and savoring the innocent contact despite his growing disquiet. This walk through the forest to the waterfall and hot pool felt like a march of an execution. He forced the doom and gloom to the back of his mind, determined to focus on his captivating and irresistible Jazen.

She remained quiet, but it was a companionable silence. Despite the crew on the Indy, who were his best friends, he realized he’d been lonely for this soul-deep connection with another being.

He sighed, accepting the truth. The bond was one-sided, and he had to release Jazen and pray she’d keep his word to him.

“Tell me more about your pie shop,” he said. “You must’ve needed a little more currency to complete your purchase. Where are you starting your business?”

She hesitated, her brow crinkling, then seemed to come to a decision. “My brother is always in trouble. He required more funds, and I promised I’d give—lend—it to him, which I did. I’d written a budget and required a little more to reach my target amount. After… I required the proceeds of one more job. Two, if I’d helped Chobe yet again and didn’t dip into my savings. I haven’t decided if I’ll still fund my brother again. My mind goes back and forward on the wisdom of this loan that never gets repaid.”

Nanu admired the way she told him about the jobs without apology. It wasn’t her fault he had a bounty on his head. And this business with her brother—interesting. What trouble? Was this why he’d arrived in Viros? To collect more of Jazen’s currency? He hated to pry too much.

“What if I lent you the funds?” he asked. “To start your business.”

Her head jerked up, and she halted by a large tree. Her brows lifted to arch above her pretty eyes. “A bribe.”

He took a sec to realize his question had upset her and those glorious eyes of hers were shooting salvos of wrath. “What? A bribe? No! That’s not what I meant. All the crew on the Indy own a share. Although Ry is in charge, we reap the financial benefits of a successful contract. I require little since we live at the castle when we’re on Viros. Our friend Jannike is the queen, and we offer the ruling triad help as and when they require it.”

“You are truly friends with the queen?”

“We told you our reasons for leaving Narenda. Camryn and Mogens were required at the birth of the royal babies.”

The tension seeped from Jazen’s muscles. “I didn’t believe you. I decided it was a tale to stop me from collecting the bounty on your head.”

“I don’t know if the king and duke have heard of my past. Jannike is aware of the facts. In truth, she’s more likely to shoot or punch if someone threatens one of her friends. She’s still new at royal duties, although she threatens to toss us in the dungeon if we poke fun at her.” He smiled in memory. “Telling her she was big enough to have twins was a good way of getting the dungeon threat.”

“Has she had her baby?”

Was that wistfulness he glimpsed? “She had twins and has decided she adores the babies now that they are born. But she told Shiloh and Lynx it was lucky they had two offspring because she refused to go through that ordeal again. She told them it was worse than going to war or fighting pirates.”

“Pirates?”

“In our early days, we skirted the law and took risks to save for a bigger ship. Our current ship is the second Indefatigable. Our first ship was lucky and we kept the name, even though we’d outgrown her.”

“It sounds as if you had fun. Have you visited interesting places?”

“We have.” Nanu spoke carefully, considering his level of confidence. For Amme’s sake he’d never mention Earth. “Ornum was interesting. We captured a hell-horse and Camryn trained her to race. My brother died on Ornum.”

“I’m sorry.” She continued walking, and he followed, still holding her hand.

Nanu bowed his head, accepting her commiseration as he waited for acute pain to strike and rob his breath. This time, although there was pain and a sense of loss, the squeeze of Jazen’s fingers, the offer of sympathy, helped him to collect himself.

“My offer of a loan comes with no ties or expectations. I value your company, and I’d enjoy helping you achieve your dreams.”

Jazen stopped again, her brow wrinkled as she whipped around to face him. “You truly mean that, even though I might deceive you at any sec.”

Whitelight highlighted her features. The splash and tumble of falling water sounded closer now, and an owl—a new addition to his chamber—flew overhead to perch on a branch. The landscape outside his gattoc bore subtle differences each cycle, and Nanu sensed that Leeam and Sheera were enjoying themselves with this task. He made a mental note to do something extra special for the two youngsters.

“I cherish you,” he said. “My abducting you hasn’t inspired your confidence, but I’ve yet to hear your list of objections. I hope you’ve enjoyed your time in my gattoc.”

One of those soft blushes collected in her cheeks. “I have enjoyed myself, although your highhandedness upset me at first.”

“This is our last cycle together. What will you do next? You didn’t tell me where you will ply your trade.”

“I haven’t decided where I’ll start my pie shop. I’ve planned the menu and have decided on pricing, but I haven’t discovered a location that suits me yet.”

“Check out Viros,” Nanu suggested, his spirit leaping in anticipation. What if she stayed with him voluntarily? She might come to appreciate him as he cared for her.

“Are you serious about offering me a loan? I have enough currency for rent on a reasonable size building for a rotation.”

“Yes, I’m serious,” Nanu said, an idea occurring to him. “What if you started smaller and applied to rent a stall in the evening market here on Viros? It would allow you to test your product and learn if your pies appealed to customers.”

“Is this possible?” Clear excitement blazed in her face and Nanu relaxed.

“I think so. Or, if a stall isn’t available, I have a friend who has one. They might let you trial your product. That would be a start for you.”

“You would do this for me? Even though I intended to apprehend you?”

Nanu’s hair tendrils hummed as he tested his feelings. His mind and body swelled with longing, and he took a figurative leap. “I trust you. I don’t believe you’d betray me once you’ve given your word.”

Jazen leaned forward and kissed him—a slow, tender caress that made his pulse bound in excitement and his hair tendrils sway against his cheek.

When their lips parted, she reached up to cup his face with one hand. “I believe you when you say you didn’t murder that woman. Besides, the warrant is old and most warrant-takers only search the newer ones.”

“I’m surprised the corporation man is still alive,” Nanu said. “He seemed old when I knew him.”

“You haven’t tried to find out?”

“No, I didn’t wish to raise any alarms. Are you ready for a swim? Hot pool or waterfall?”

“The pool.”

“The hot pool it is. Last one in is a rotten egg.”

Jazen took off at a sprint, and Nanu jogged after her, enjoying the jiggle of feminine flesh. Leaving his chamber would mean donning clothing again. If Jazen stayed, perhaps he could talk her into sharing his chamber.

“You’re a rotten egg!” she called, already immersed to the chest in the steamy waters.

Nanu stepped into the warmth and waded toward her, letting her see his sensual intent.

“Oh, no!” Jazen backed away. “We came here to wash, not fuck.”

Nanu blinked at the harsh word. “I came to wash and to make love with you.”

“Oh,” she said again, seconds before he pounced.

* * * * *

Chobe spent two cycles watching the comings and goings at the main castle gate, and another watching the rear one. Visitors and the castle occupants used the main gate while servants and staff used the other. Some of the castle occupants also used the rear gate when they wished to enter or exit the castle unobtrusively.

He rendezvoused with Hanoid at the tavern they’d made their base.

“Has she moved?” Hanoid asked.

“No. I have to get in there. If she’s dead, it won’t matter. I’ll take her hand and an eye, so we can access her vault.”

“You’d do that to your sister?” Hanoid sounded shocked.

“If she’s dead, she can’t use her savings. She’d want me to have it.”

“And if she’s not in the castle but her comm is?”

“That isn’t what her tracker says, but we’ll face that problem when we come to it. I’ve come up with a plan. I’ve noticed the castle staff drink at the tavern on Fourth Street. We’ll capture one and I’ll duplicate him. That way I can sneak inside the castle. From there, I’ll alter my appearance as necessary. Hopefully, I’ll locate my sister quickly.”

“How will you get back out?”

“I’m not sure about that. It depends if she’s willing to leave with me. I’ll have to make my plan on the fly.”

Hanoid tapped his fingers on the grubby tabletop, then picked up his tankard and drank. He set his tankard back down and wiped the back of his hand across his mouth. “How can I help?”

“The repairs on the ship are complete. Hire one of those flymo ships they use for transport and wait for me.”

“They’re forbidden to fly over the castle or the square,” Hanoid said. “The pilot let me off on Second Street last blacklight. Told me it wasn’t worth his license to break the rules.”

“What if we hijacked one? You wait on Second Street and once I have Jazen, you can zip over the castle to the grounds out the back to pick us up. With luck, we’ll be quick and they won’t act against us until we’re clear.”

Hanoid scratched his chin, pondering, and wrinkled his nose. “The soldiers are trained to high standards. Not much gets past them. Even when they’re in a tavern after their shift, they don’t drink to excess or carouse. They’re disciplined and loyal.”

“I have observed their close-eyed scrutiny, and that’s the worrying part of my plan.”

“Would they suspect one of their own? What if you duplicated a soldier?”

“I considered it, but they’d have no reason to wander the castle interior, not unless they’re the royal bodyguards. That’s what made me decide to become a male or female servant. All I need to do is knock them out and steal their clothes.”

Hanoid barked out a chortle of amusement. “I bet you’re a sight in female garb.”

“I’m lucky the local race is taller and I’ll blend.” Chobe grimaced. “You might joke but it’s no fun dressing as a woman.”

Hanoid sobered. “If you succeed, I’ll have a drink waiting for you on the other side.”

Chobe smiled grimly. “I’m aware of the consequences of failure, and I don’t intend to watch the Hsilgne gang lord it over us for much longer. They’re goin’ down.”

Hanoid lifted his tankard. “I’ll drink to that.”

Chobe clicked his mug to Hanoid’s and drank to complete the toast.

Failure was not on his agenda.

* * * * *

“Are you ready to leave?” Nanu asked.

In truth, she wasn’t, but Jazen shifted away from the forest view and the tiny red bird flitting from branch to branch. She’d enjoyed this relaxing time with Nanu where she had nothing more taxing to do than decide what to eat or when to explore the forest. She and Nanu had talked about their pasts, their dreams, their daily lives, their likes and dislikes. Nanu had seemed happy to talk instead of fucking…making love all the time.

A flush of heat spread into her cheeks. They’d done a lot of that too.

“I’ll need to blindfold you,” he said with a hint of regret. “I’m sorry but this secret place is a personal one for me.”

Disappointment speared into her. “You don’t trust me.”

“I do, but I—” He straightened his shoulders as if he’d come to a decision. “I trust you. What I’m worried about is you learning I’ve lied to you.”

“You don’t want me?” The thought struck her even harder than disappointment at him not trusting her.

“Of course I want you,” he replied, cupping her face in his hands and staring deep into her eyes.

But he kept secrets from her.

A part of her understood. A handful of cycles ago, she’d intended to betray him, his bounty the incentive. But she’d come to know him and his friends, then he’d abducted her and let her see the real man beneath the humor and swagger. She didn’t believe this man standing in front of her and touching her with such tenderness was a murderer.

“I don’t want you to think less of me.”

Jazen licked her lips, aware this was a tipping point between them. Did she take the risk that whatever he’d done was inconsequential or did she walk away? She ached to trust him, she realized. She yearned for someone to stand in her corner. For once, she wanted to lean on someone for help and support instead of being the one expected to give and give and receive nothing back.

Her younger brother expected her support and financial aid whenever he clicked his fingers. She’d helped him because of the familial ties, because she loved him, and they were a team.

They used to be a team.

Now Chobe had a wife and child. He didn’t need her in the same way, yet he still expected her to help him with finances. Yes, her decision to withhold her funds was the right one. It was time to consider herself and to follow her dreams.

“Hey.” Nanu tapped the tip of her nose. “Where did you go?”

“Family stuff. My brother expects me to give him currency and support him when he is never there for me.”

“I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. Chobe needs to stand alone, and it’s time for me to cut ties and concentrate on my own interests. If your offer of a loan is still there, I’d be happy to accept.”

He smiled, and she placed a finger over his mouth to halt his words.

“We will draw up a contract and I will pay you interest. It will be a business document.” She lifted her finger.

“I agree,” Nanu said. “We will get the king and queen to witness the document, so you understand the sincerity of my offer.”

“And if I break my word, they’ll throw me in the dungeon,” she said drily.

“No doubt,” Nanu said. “Jannike is protective of her friends, which brings me to the truth that I didn’t tell you about earlier.”

Jazen tensed, her eyes widening as she studied his face. Apprehension crept back into her. She swallowed and nodded. “Tell me.”

“We’re not in the forest. We’re still in my chamber at the castle.”

Jazen’s mouth fell open. She stared at him, then focused on the trees, the bright red butterfly flitting from wildflower to wildflower. She scanned the gattoc with its filmy sides, the basket where Nanu kept the food and cold drinks. The food… The supply had been constant and fresh.

“No,” she said. “We’re in the middle of the forest. The breeze is cool on my cheeks. It’s colder today.”

“Making love with me seems to make you sleepy,” Nanu said. “Once every cycle, I left my chamber to get more food.”

“No, I would’ve noticed you leaving me alone. We’ve been together every cycle.”

“I’m sorry,” he said. “I’ll prove it to you in a mark, but there is one other thing. Your brother has arrived in Viros. He told spaceport control his ship required repairs. When they questioned him further, he admitted he’d come to meet with you.”

“Phrull,” she said. “You said Ry let my transfer go through? I sent what I could. Chobe told me he was in trouble and needed funds. What if he was telling the truth?”

“Ry did. Your funds were sent to your brother. We’ve seen no evidence of him being in trouble. He is here with a woman and a man named Hanoid.”

“No children?”

“No.”

“That’s odd. If Sergy is with him, I’d expect his son to be there too.” She gasped. “Unless something happened to Raffey. No, he would’ve sent me another message, pleading for more. I’ll speak with them. Chobe will leave once I tell him I have no spare savings to give him, and that I intend to stay here on Viros.”

“With me.”

She grinned at his possessiveness and satisfaction. “With you, although I disapprove of the way you abducted me. And why did you trick me about our whereabouts? Why are we in your gattoc, yet still in the castle?”

“A gattoc is a traditional mating place for my people. Ignoring this ritual would’ve made our relationship less in my mind.” He shot her a worried glance. “That sounds bad, but my yearning to build a gattoc proves my intentions toward you are serious. And as for the castle gattoc, it was a matter of safety. For both of us.”

“Huh! You have yet to prove we are actually in the castle.” She studied his sincere expression, the hint of anxiety and melted inside. “I can understand following the customs of your people. You’re lucky to have the rites and beliefs in your family. We have both made mistakes, and it is time to step past them.”

“All right then,” Nanu said and clasped their hands together. “Let’s go.”

He seemed to enjoy touching her, holding her and more. How could she not return his affection when he offered it so freely to her?

Nanu led her deeper into the forest, until the gattoc was no longer in sight.

“We’re still in the forest. There are birds and I can hear the waterfall. Oh! Look, an animal.”

“A deer.” Nanu kept sauntering onward until they passed the waterfall and the hot pool. Once there, he guided her across the small stream. His steps slowed, and he reached out his free hand. Part of his limb disappeared.

She could see his upper arm, but in the space where his hand should be, there was nothing. A faint click sounded, and a doorway formed. Nanu tugged her through and into the corridor beyond. She stared in disbelief, yet her eyes weren’t deceiving her. Nanu hadn’t been lying either. She’d spent cycles with him, alone in his castle chamber.

“How? Why?”

“I’ll explain later. Right now we need to find Ry or Kaya and learn what is happening with your brother.”

Plan B Swings In To Action

From the little information he’d gathered on Chobe Lav and his experience of the type of man or woman who took up as a warrant-taker—present company excepted—Nanu wasn’t as confident of her brother’s departure. Certainly not as quietly as Jazen wished.

Ry had told Nanu the brother was keeping his head down. That meant nothing. His hair tendrils stirred at his uneasiness.

“What would you like to do first?”

“Can we go outside to the square? Where the stalls are set up?”

“Of course. During the day, the square is quieter. There are cafes and smaller estaminets, a few elegant apparel stores and a large tavern. It’s at night when the square comes alive with stalls and entertainment.”

“I’d still like to see. Please. How do I apply for a stall? What equipment do they provide? What is the best way to do this?” Excited questions poured from her, and her eyes sparkled with enthusiasm.

“Of course we can wander the square. I’ll take you for a walk, and we’ll take refreshments at one of the estaminets. Let me check in with Ry and Kaya first. I need to learn what contracts we have coming up.”

“Will you need to leave soon?”

“I’m not sure. It depends. We have an ongoing contract with the dragons on Narenda. It’s almost time to travel there to fulfill the next phase.”

Nanu escorted Jazen down the corridor to the suite of common rooms where they hung out together and ate as a family. Sometimes, the couples sought privacy and ate in their chambers but Nanu hoped to find at least some of his friends relaxing in readiness for the midcycle meal.

He’d been right. Almost everyone sat around a large float table, ready for the servants to serve their meal.

“Nanu.” Camryn saw him first. “I understood you’d stay in your chamber for several more cycles.”

Nanu pushed aside the surge of disappointment that struck him. The length of isolation should be several cycles longer, but since the mating hadn’t taken, there was no point lingering. He’d garnered Jazen’s interest in starting a stall, and he’d build on that and the beginnings of their friendship.

“Change of plans.” He ushered Jazen to an empty seat and took the one beside her.

“Oh, I thought we were going to the square.” Jazen’s eagerness fell away.

“We will. I promise.” Nanu placed his hand over hers and squeezed.

“Aw, that’s so sweet,” Kaya cooed. “You’re gonna promenade.”

Ry made a choking noise, and Camryn clapped her mate over the back.

Nanu glared at Kaya. “There is no need—”

“Nanu is showing me the square since I wish to apply for a stall. I am going to sell my pies,” Jazen said.

Kaya’s brows shot upward. “You make pies? A warrant-taker?”

“I am retiring as a warrant-taker,” Jazen said.

“I don’t believe you can make a pie,” Kaya scoffed.

Nanu stiffened, not liking the way this first meeting with his friends was going. “Kaya.”

His warning went unheeded.

Jazen lifted her chin, her focus on Kaya. “I do not lie.”

“Not true,” Kaya intoned. “You lied to us about who you were and your purpose. You tried to capture Nanu.”

“I did lie to you, and I’m sorry about that. My brother required quick currency, and I wanted to help him.”

“And now?” Ry asked, an edge to his voice.

“I’ve decided my brother needs to become more independent and he should stop relying on me when he is capable of providing for his family. It’s time for me to follow my dreams. I want to open a pie shop.”

Several servants arrived with platters of food.

“What are we having?” Kaya asked.

“Toasted sandwiches and soup, miss,” the thin woman with red skin said.

“Toasted sandwiches?” Jazen asked. “I helped you make sandwiches during the voyage to Viros. What is different about these?”

Kaya cocked her head and studied Jazen as if she were a bug.

Nanu got the urge to slap his friend.

“Maybe you are a cook. You’re showing the same fascination as a foodie.” Kaya sniffed. “And you and Nanu are intending to wander in the square later on.”

“What is a foodie?”

“A person who enjoys food, both eating and learning about it,” Camryn said hastily. “Let’s eat.”

“Don’t worry. You’ll enjoy these,” Nanu added. “If we discover a tasty food during our travels, we learn how to make it. I forget which planet sandwiches come from, but they are a firm favorite.” No need to mention Earth, Camryn’s planet of origin. Their friend Amme Vanak must be kept safe, especially since she’d made Earth her home with her new family.

* * * * *

Dressed in his maid’s costume, his disguise stolen from a hapless kitchen employee, Chobe set his platter on the long float table. Frustration knotted his guts even as part of him applauded Jazen’s latest scheme.

The fools. The simpletons were accepting his sister as one of their own, welcoming her—or at least some of them were. The blue-haired woman with the pointy ears didn’t like Jazen much. He could use her animosity. Perhaps seduce the woman to use for his own pleasure. Sergy was becoming tiresome, and now that she was aging, she wasn’t attracting as many customers.

On the up side, if Jazen and the man with the weird hair intended to wander in the square later, it would make his task of grabbing his sister easier.

The thin red woman nudged him in the ribs. “Hurry, Easter. We need to collect more platters from the kitchen. This lot eat much food.”

Chobe started, having forgotten he’d replicated the female servant. He barely restrained his growl of displeasure, forcing it into a cough at the last sec. With his head down, he trudged after the red woman, concentrating on maintaining his stolen character. He should make an escape now that he knew Jazen intended to leave the castle, but the chance of learning more about the people here and how Jazen had wriggled her way into this sweet gig made him decide to stay in character.

Information was power.

Back in the steamy kitchen, he picked up another heavy platter and trudged with the rest of the servants back to the big space where the privileged ate.

He didn’t learn any additional intelligence, but he scanned the different people, memorizing them and attempting to match the names he heard with the faces. He listened to their conversation.

“Can I speak with you before Jazen and I leave for our walk?” the man with the weird hair asked the male sitting opposite him.

Chobe perused the man’s broad features after he set the platter on the table. Something about him tugged at Chobe yet the memory refused to settle into fact. The knowledge would come to him eventually. The man had a thing for his sister, and even stranger Jazen seemed to return his regard. He’d never seen his sister interact in this manner before. Normally, she remained standoffish and acted as if she was too good for any man. What made this one different?

Even odder, Jazen and this man had disappeared for several cycles, and now they’d reappeared. The puzzle itched his brain until his temples ached.

“Easter, what is wrong with you this cycle?” The red woman tugged sharply on the hem of Chobe’s tunic. “Cook will have our heads if we dawdle. We have to peel the vegetables and help prepare the capons for roasting.”

Joy. The sooner he left the castle, the quicker he could contact Hanoid and revise their plan to grab Jazen. His gaze lingered on the blue-haired woman—the one they called Kaya—and his pulse quickened.

She’d be a challenge.

* * * * *

“This is my first real visit to Viros,” Jazen said, craning her neck as they ambled through the luxurious castle rooms full of treasures from different parts of the solar system and beyond. The previous queen had collected most of them, according to Nanu.

“It’s a good place to live,” Nanu said, reaching for her hand.

Their fingers entwined and peace settled over her skin. It was a foreign sensation, one she’d never experienced before meeting Nanu. Spending time with him eased the tension in her muscles, and she had the strangest desire to sing and dance. He made her feel positive and safe, a foreign sentiment since, in her occupation, watching her back became second nature. Even better, he sought her company and seemed to like her, despite their rocky start.

“I’m excited to explore the possibilities of setting up my business here.”

Nanu’s brows lifted, and he swung their linked hands. “Really? I didn’t realize.”

She blinked at the brighter whitelight outside the castle interior. A new surge of happiness streaked through her while her eyes refocused. He was teasing her. No one had ever teased her before.

They passed through the security checkpoints and ambled into the square, still holding hands.

“If I can’t get a stall straightaway, perhaps I might discuss a deal with the owner of an estaminet to sell my pies with their drinks?”

“Excellent idea,” Nanu said. “Start small and build your brand. Let’s go this way first. We’ll pass the tavern and do a circle to study the estaminets. In my opinion, you’ll find the owners receptive to your pies. They’re always searching for an edge on their competition.”

Jazen eyed her surroundings with interest. Nanu had explained the town to her, and how the more expensive housing and shops were located at the top of the mountain nearer the castle. The quality of the goods and accommodation grew progressively cheaper the farther away a being headed from the castle.

“I could make two different types of pies and take them around the estaminets to see if they’re interested in selling them. That’s if I can’t get my own stall,” she added.

“Another great idea. You’re full of them today.”

Jazen strode beside Nanu, her mind working through the possibilities even as she basked in his approval. “I’d need to rent a kitchen if I decided on that option.”

“A suggestion. Check out properties available for rent. I have inside information of the best locations in the city.”

“I want to do this on my own. I don’t wish to trade on our friendship to get what I want.”

“And that’s admirable,” Nanu said in a husky voice. “But I like you. I want you to succeed, and if I can aid you in your plans, that’s what I’ll do.”

No one had ever helped her before. Every bit of currency she’d had to secure the hard way. The other warrant-takers hadn’t given her respect. She’d had to earn everything with painstaking work, determination and an unwillingness to give up.

“What do you expect in exchange?”

Nanu flinched, his brows drawing together. His hair tendrils hissed at her, as if disappointed by her question. “I want to continue seeing you. I want a relationship.” His amber eyes blazed with resolve as he drew her to him, even though they stood in the middle of the square in a public place. “I want you, Jazen. Let me help.”

Every time she decided she’d figured out Nanu, he said or did something to toss her assumptions into turmoil.

“I thought you were playing with me—that our time together was temporary.”

“No. I repeat, I want you. It’s why I suggested you stay on Viros. That you start your business here? Because, selfishly, I want you to stay. You’re more than a friend.”

Her mouth rounded as his words burst over her. He liked her and wanted her to stay.

“W-where would I live?”

“I’d like you to stay with me in my chamber.”

“Live at the castle?”

“You’d be my mate, Jazen. Please consider staying. I don’t want to rush you or force you to act against your will. I’m telling you what I want. You decide if you wish the same thing.”

“I—Chobe!” She blinked, unable to believe her brother was in Viros.

Chobe, taller than her, but with the same straight black hair marched toward her, powering up the last steps of the central stairs. What was he doing in Viros? She took in his broad features, his sensual mouth and his pronounced cheekbones. She caught the admiring glances from two approaching maidens. He hadn’t changed and still attracted feminine attention.

“Why aren’t you answering your comm?” Chobe demanded.

Jazen patted her tunic pocket. It was warm out this whitelight, and she hadn’t bothered about a jacket. Nanu had returned her comm. From memory, it was still in her jacket pocket. “Ah, it’s in my jacket. I didn’t expect to see you here.”

The truth.

There was only one reason for Chobe to search for her in Viros. Several cycles ago when Nanu and his friends had locked her away, after she’d tried to capture him, she’d prayed Chobe would use the tracker she had embedded in her hip to locate her.

Now that he was here, she wished he hadn’t bothered.

The fact he’d gone to so much trouble had her instincts screeching aloud.

Nanu inclined his head in a bow of respect to her brother. “I’m Nanu. I’m pleased to meet you. Chobe. Jazen has often spoken of you.” He held out his hand and let it fall to his side when Chobe rudely ignored him.

“Chobe!” Jazen couldn’t believe his lack of manners and scowled her disapproval. “What do you want?”

His eyes flared with a burst of anger. “You promised me currency.”

“And I sent it.” She straightened abruptly, aware of Nanu’s watchful silence from beside her. “You’re not getting anymore. You’re old enough to earn your own and save for whatever you wish to purchase. It’s not my job to pay your way. I sent you the money you owed to recover Raffey. I know you received it, but you didn’t even bother to thank me or let me know Raffey was safe. I’m not giving you more.”

“If it wasn’t for me you’d still be in the brothel, working on your back. I asked Azarious to bring you with us. It was because of me you had a second chance.”

Nanu slipped his arm around her waist, and she scarcely winced at the possessiveness of the action. Instead, she glared at Chobe, furious that he would throw this in her face after all she’d done for him. It was true. Azarious hadn’t wanted to take her.

His reasoning—she was a weak female.

Desperate to leave the brothel because she knew, she knew even at that young age, if she didn’t escape, she’d die there. She had pleaded and promised to work hard for Azarious, had fallen to her knees and begged for a chance.

She’d kept her word, training hard and working smart to become a successful warrant-taker. Over the rotations, she’d repaid Azarious’s investment many times over, and he’d allowed her to pay back his outlay and gain her freedom. After that, he’d allowed her to pick her own targets instead of assigning them. All he’d asked was a commission.

Chobe sneered at her. “You’d be dead if I hadn’t cried pretend tears and demanded he take you too.”

“You’d throw that in my face now,” she snapped, jabbing her finger at his chest to make her point. “I worked harder than you and made more captures. I trained and worked conscientiously. I earned my freedom from Azarious long before you did. If it wasn’t for me, you’d still be indentured to him.”

“Are you sure you want to discuss this in a public place?” Nanu’s quiet words made her aware of the locals staring at them, the soldiers who patrolled the square because of its proximity to the castle, glancing their way. The soldiers’ hands rested on their weapons.

A wave of heat and distress colored her face. This was why she restricted their meetings to comm. Chobe made her crazy. He pushed her buttons, and she forgot Azarious’s prime rules. Never, ever lose sight of your surroundings.

Every hunt bore dangers. Every planet. Every being.

“Grata,” Chobe spat. “You make me lose my mind. Come!”

“No, I’ve told you I won’t give you my savings this time.”

“You refuse to have a drink with your brother?” Chobe mocked.

“I never said that,” Jazen snapped. “Stop trying to put words in my mouth.”

“I promised to meet Sergy on Fourth Street. Why don’t you and your boyfriend have a drink with us there?”

Jazen checked with Nanu, silently asking him if changing their plans was acceptable. To her relief, he gave an imperceptible nod of approval.

“That’s fine,” Jazen said. The last thing she wanted was to part company with Chobe on bad terms. He was her brother, her only family left.

Although Nanu…

She wasn’t certain where he slotted into her life.

All she knew was that she enjoyed his company, and she believed in him.

“Should we meet you there?” she asked. “What about Raffey?”

“After his ordeal, we decided to leave him with Raffey’s sister for safety. Why don’t you come now?” Chobe was all smiles now that she was doing what he wanted. His normal pattern of behavior. She’d forgotten his selfish streak. In the past, she’d forgiven him, let go of her residual irritation because he was her sole living relation.

Once again, she glanced at Nanu to check on his willingness of the new plan.

“Sure,” she said. “I’m sorry I won’t see Raffey this trip.”

“Which street did you say?” Nanu asked.

“On Fourth Street,” Chobe snapped. “There is a tavern where we meet, near to our accommodation.”

“Very well,” Jazen said, embarrassment flooding her at her brother’s discourtesy. They’d have a drink with her brother and his wife, act with politeness then leave. “Let’s go. I’m looking forward to meeting her.”

“You haven’t met her?” Nanu murmured.

“Not in person. We’ve spoken many times via comm.”

“What are you whispering about?” Chobe demanded. “Are you trying to decide on how to leave our company in the shortest time?”

“Chobe! Stop acting like a Frogan ogre. I’m happy to spend time with you and Sergy.” She forced herself not to glance at Nanu again. Act as if Nanu was a temporary fling rather than something more serious.

Chobe mustn’t connect Nanu with a bounty. He possessed an excellent memory for faces, recalling beings he’d seen many rotations earlier. It was part of what had made him a successful warrant-taker. It was his lack of attention to detail that was his downfall. Her brother preferred shortcuts to get things done.

Nanu indicated they needed to traverse the central stairs that led from the castle, down the hill, toward the walls surrounding the city.

As they walked down the hill, her and Nanu leading her brother, Jazen’s back tingled as if danger lurked behind them. She darted a peek over her shoulder and caught her brother’s smug smile. Her lifeforce muscle seemed to drop to the pit of her stomach. Her brother was involved in something, something unlawful, but why did he need them?

The hair at the back of her neck prickled with greater intensity, and Jazen swallowed. Neither of them carried weapons. Ry had confiscated her blaster, and she’d never seen Nanu with any weapon.

Grata, this fix was her fault.

Even though she should trust her brother, every instinct screamed Chobe was leading her and Nanu into a trap. And she had no idea why.

Betrayal Yet Again

Nanu took a dislike to Chobe Lav. The man was nothing like his older sister, not even when she was at her most tetchy.

Still, if Jazen desired to spend time with her brother, he’d keep her company. And watch out for her because her worm of a brother intended to talk her into giving up her hard-earned savings. Hopefully, the man wouldn’t recognize him as Jazen had. He angled his head a fraction to monitor Chobe in his peripheral vision. The vibe the brother gave off differed from the professional one Jazen exuded. For Jazen, he’d take the risk and spend a short time with her obnoxious brother.

In the lead, Nanu kept a solid pace as they descended to the lower levels. In the square, high-class woman sauntered around the stores, their maidservants trailing them and carrying packages. Elderly councilmen sat in estaminets and cafes, drinking hot reeb and chewing elteeb nuts for relaxation. Children raced around playing tag, finding joy in the manner of children everywhere.

On the second level, more tradesmen plied their craft. Flymos, the chubby vehicles used for moving goods and people around the city, landed in the reserved area, disgorging passengers of all races and ages. Others waited for porters to unload cargo, the entire street bustling with activity.

As they worked their way down the central staircase, the quality of the clothes decreased. Nanu noticed young boys targeting a pair of lords slumming it at a corner tavern. Lynx and Shiloh tried to maintain order and keep the citizens safe, but visitors from other planets kept arriving with an eye on quick profits. Without a pause, he slid into the gap between the half-drunk lords intent on leaving the tavern and the group of boys. He glared at the boys, his hand settling on his hip, as if he carried a weapon and intended to use it.

The largest boy, the obvious leader of the group, spat at Nanu. When Nanu’s hair tendrils lifted, swaying in the youth’s direction, then hissed, the boy’s eyes widened. He lifted both his hands and backed away. An instant later, the young males melted into the crowd, and the two lords continued farther down the staircase, none the wiser.

“My hero,” Jazen said in a light voice.

Nanu shrugged, uncomfortable when he’d reacted instinctively. “We do our bit to help the city stay safe.” If he’d been with Kaya or Ry or even Camryn and Jannike, they would’ve done the same thing—helped the lords and stopped the thieves. Sometimes, they offered the thieves an alternative, but Nanu didn’t have time to do anything further this cycle.

He ambled at Jazen’s side, his gaze surveying the crowd of people around them.

A flymo scuttled overhead, zapping up and down in an irregular manner. It landed the street below them, close to the tavern where they were meeting Chobe’s wife. Nanu presumed the driver had imbibed too much at the tavern. Another problem the king and duke intended to stomp out.

As they arrived at the tavern, Nanu reached for the door handle.

“Not there,” Chobe said. “There’s a doorway around the other side. It’s the entrance for those who are staying in the accommodation above the tavern.”

“I don’t like this,” Jazen whispered. “Something isn’t right.”

Nanu agreed and the prod of a weapon in his ribs backed up their theory.

“Move it,” Chobe ordered. “Keep your hands where I can see them. This weapon is loaded, and I’m not afraid to use it.”

Nanu stilled, yanking Jazen to an abrupt halt. “What is going on?”

Jazen whirled to face her brother, distress digging into her features when she saw the blaster aimed at them both. “What are you doing?”

Chobe stared at them with something resembling hatred. “You’re coming with me.”

“We’ve already said we would,” Nanu said, smiling in an easy-going manner despite the danger. If he acted unruffled and benign, perhaps Chobe would underestimate him. Of course, he’d be aware of Jazen’s capabilities.

“Veer to the right and head to the flymo. Don’t try anything foolish because I have my crew on standby to help should you present any difficulties. Make no mistake, my weapon is loaded and I will shoot if you alert bystanders or attempt an escape. I’ll shoot nosy watchers or I might shoot one of you in the foot, the shoulder, the knee. I’m not fussy.”

Nanu believed Chobe. The man’s gritty tone was uncompromising, but would he truly injure his sister? His inner beast growled, forcing anger and energy through his veins. His beast wanted to fight, and his hair hissed, almost as if it agreed. While he hadn’t tried out his new powers, his childhood training had enlightened him as to the possibilities. He could disarm Chobe.

Besides, Ry and Kaya would come for him. He’d told them he intended to stay in the square. If they failed to locate him during a search, they’d check his tracker. The entire crew had a tracker implant each, inserted after Mogens had read the clouds one cycle. He’d informed Ry they’d need concealed trackers implanted inside them for safety reasons, and the captain had agreed the suggestion was a good one. Jannike’s tracker had allowed them to find her after a collector had abducted her, so as long as he stayed alive, he’d come out of this little adventure intact.

“Do as he says,” Nanu whispered.

“But he’s acting crazy,” Jazen said.

“Enough chatter. Walk. Now.” Chobe jabbed the weapon at Jazen this time, shoving her forward and making her stumble.

Nanu grabbed her before she fell and set her on her feet. He glared at Chobe, not bothering to restrain his dislike. A sibilant hissing came from his hair tendrils, and they lifted to writhe and dance around his head. “Stop. We’re going. There’s no need to shove us.”

Nanu led Jazen in the direction Chobe indicated. At Chobe’s urging, they stepped off the main staircase and hustled along the narrow street, past a tailor’s shop. A discarded flymo terminal took up the rest of the street, the red warning signs plastered across the immense double doors signaling this was one of the areas zoned for redevelopment. A work party of young males of mixed races toiled, stacking the loose debris in a pile for collection and removal.

One youth—a red mumber with the characteristic red skin of his race—raised his right hand in greeting. “Hey-ho!”

Nanu cursed inwardly, recognizing him. This youth and several of the others in the group were Jarlath’s protégés. Jarlath was the king’s brother, and he looked upon this youth as a son.

“I’ll shoot him without hesitation,” Chobe warned. “Go quietly or I might shoot his friends for sport. Tell him you’re in a hurry. Can’t speak to him right now.”

“Hey, Cristop. I’ll catch up with you later.” Nanu shifted his position, allowing the youth a glimpse of Chobe’s weapon. The youth flipped his dreads over his shoulder, waved again and strode away, said something to one of his friends and continued with his dusty work.

“Walk.” Chobe punctuated his order with another rib jab.

Nanu stepped in the direction Chobe indicated and prayed Cristop would contact Ry. He was certain he’d seen the weapon and understood Nanu had trouble.

The flymo he’d noticed earlier sat in the middle of the street and a man stood in the open doorway, his gaze trained on him, Jazen and Chobe.

One of Chobe’s crew.

Nanu cursed his habit of not wearing a weapon while in Viros. Normally, he’d carry his comm, but he hadn’t stopped to grab it, his mind in turmoil because of Jazen. He shook his head. Jazen had thrown his entire life into chaos. Although he could take Chobe, he didn’t want to attack him and upset Jazen. A delicate balance, the path between him and Jazen.

So, he’d wait.

He’d watch.

And act—when the opportunity presented itself.

Chobe’s ship was under watch at the spaceport, but if he tried to leave, Nanu wasn’t sure if the officials would stop him. Until this cycle, he hadn’t committed a crime. For all Nanu knew, the officials might have ceased their scrutiny of Chobe’s ship. He hadn’t asked Ry during his quick absences from his gattoc. Ry had informed him Chobe was staying in a local tavern and seemed to be behaving. That was all that mattered.

“Ready to go, Chobe?” the man asked. Gleeful humor radiated from him, as if he knew a secret that pleased him.

“Get in the flymo,” Chobe ordered.

Nanu squeezed Jazen’s hand in silent support and ushered her through the door into the utility vehicle. She looked stricken at her brother’s behavior, and Nanu’s heart ached for her. After everything she’d done for her brother. She must feel as if he’d kicked her square in the chest.

Chobe climbed in last and pulled the flymo door closed. “Let’s go, Hanoid.” He dropped onto one of the empty seats, keeping his weapon aimed at them.

“Why did you bring him?” the one called Hanoid asked.

“Leverage. My sister likes him, so I figure a blaster aimed at him will make her cooperate. Besides, the man lives at the castle. We can exchange him later for a ransom. Two problems with one stone.”

“What do you mean two problems?” Jazen asked.

Nanu understood and winced at Chobe’s uncaring attitude, but he remained silent. She needed to comprehend on her own rather than Nanu pointing out Chobe’s intentions.

“Chobe?”

Chobe ignored Jazen.

Hanoid gave a sharp salute and slid into the pilot’s seat. He started the flymo and rose into a vertical lift before zapping into forward propulsion.

Nanu scanned the flymo interior, searching for anything to secret away for a weapon. A pair of legs poked out from behind the rear seats. The previous pilot or the owner of the flymo, Nanu presumed. His glance out the round window showed the thick walls that surrounded the city. His guess, they were headed for the spaceport.

His supposition proved right when ten marks later, the flymo approached the spaceport. Hope surged in Nanu. He held his breath. If the pilot didn’t follow protocol, alarm bells would chime.

“What do you want, Chobe? Why are you doing this? And what about Sergy? And Raffey?” Jazen asked.

She was pale and sympathy twisted inside Nanu at her bewilderment. He and Yep had sometimes fought, but he’d always understood if he encountered trouble, Yep would stand at his side. Now, he possessed loyal friends. True friends.

Jazen mightn’t be able to count on her brother, but Nanu intended to watch her back. She didn’t trust him enough to have confidence in this fact.

“Sergy?” Chobe snorted.

“Not now,” the pilot snapped over his shoulder. “Save it for later. I’ll have to land with the rest of the flymos or else we’ll alert security.”

Chobe’s mouth stretched into a mocking curve and kept his malicious gaze on his sister.

Nanu sat back, mind working busily. He knew several of the security staff at the spaceport. He, Ry and Kaya had assisted Ellard with their training before the opening of the spaceport. Could he alert them? While he was positive Cristop was already locating help, any additional aid might come in handy.

The pilot landed the flymo in the park with the others and powered down the vehicle.

“Don’t do anything stupid. Hanoid and I are armed, and we have no problem with shooting innocent bystanders to get you to our ship. Do you understand me?” Chobe asked in a hard voice.

“Got it,” Nanu snapped.

“We understand,” Jazen said in a low, tight voice.

Nanu sought her hand once they exited the flymo. She sounded broken at the betrayal, and his dislike for the man she called brother increased tenfold. His inner beast rumbled a protest at their cooperation. In his earlier years, Nanu might have attempted to overthrow the pair, but there were too many innocent bystanders. Age and experience had taught him a thing or two.

Wait for your opportunity.

Nanu entered the arrivals’ area of the spaceport and Jazen followed him. He hesitated once inside, unsure of which bay they’d docked their ship.

“Left,” Chobe ordered.

Nanu stalked left and passed four bays before Chobe directed him into Bay I. Not one of the security guards looked familiar and he surged with frustration.

“I refuse to go with you,” Jazen said without warning. She stopped in the middle of the corridor. “You’re my brother. Why are you doing this?”

“Get moving.” The pilot armed his weapon, the distinctive whine setting Nanu’s hair tendrils into motion.

“Jazen, go. There are too many innocents here.” Nanu’s tone held warning along with anger.

She shot him a glower, her face setting in determination, secs before she elbowed Chobe in the ribs. Her blow took Chobe by surprise, but the pilot didn’t hesitate. He lowered his weapon and shot Nanu in the leg.

Pain flared in fiery agony through his limb, and he crumpled a fraction before he regained his balance. Lifeforce rapidly stained his trews and instinct had him ripping off his tunic and using it to stem the flow. Jazen screamed and whirled away from her brother to run to him.

“It’s okay. It’s a graze,” Nanu said quickly even though it hurt like the devil.

“How touching,” Chobe mocked. “I knew she cared for him.”

“Hurry, man,” Hanoid ordered.

Nanu breathed heavily, the pain in his calf intensified by the pressure he was putting on the wound. He scanned the bay and noted security moving into position. They wouldn’t be taking off—the protocols the king and his council had put in place for such a circumstance as this, in motion the sec Hanoid had fired his weapon.

“Let me see,” Jazen demanded.

“Get on the phrullin’ ship or I’ll shoot him again. We don’t need him.”

Jazen’s head jerked up, her shock, her misery clear to see.

“Hurry,” Hanoid urged. “Chobe, shoot her and bring her body. Remove her hand and eye.”

Ah, the situation started to make sense. Chobe wanted his sister’s savings and intended to get them despite her refusal. Most currency vaults required retina and handprint identification before they’d release funds.

“You intend to shoot me. You’d kill me to get my savings? Frag you, Chobe Lav!”

Nanu heard her fury, and her brother did too. Nanu’s inner beast roared, straining his muscles, and Nanu focused on the weapon in Hanoid’s hand. The man with an innocent’s face and the soul of a demon aimed it at Jazen.

One of Nanu’s hair tendrils shot outward, springing toward Hanoid and wrapping around his wrist. Hanoid shouted, and attempted to free himself, the weapon firing and barely missing Jazen. A second tendril slashed Hanoid’s forearm, and the man screamed in pain. The blaster crashed to the ground.

Chobe cursed and seized Jazen, shoving her toward his ship.

Nanu swiveled, his hair tendrils flicking outward and lengthening. They lashed Chobe across the shoulders and struck his head. The sickening crunch had Nanu jerking backward in alarm. His injured leg twisted and pain shot down his limb as Chobe fell to the bay floor. In the heat of the moment, Nanu hadn’t felt a thing.

“Chobe!” Jazen screamed and ran to her brother.

“Raise your hands in the air,” a guard shouted from the end of the bay.

“Mikel,” Nanu said in relief. At last, a guard he knew.

“Stand down,” Mikel ordered. “Hands in the air where I can see them. Five secs before I shoot and ask questions later.”

Nanu froze, understanding the order but chafing under it all the same. He wasn’t the enemy here. He backed up, limping on his injured leg. Raising his arms slowly, so as not to cause alarm, he willed his beast to back down.

Jazen ignored the guards to concentrate on her fallen brother. “Chobe,” she whispered her thin voice audible to Nanu. “Why did you do it?”

“Wanted to protect Sergy and my son. Gang kidnapped son. Have to get him back. The funds you sent weren’t enough. Help me onto the ship, Jazen. Help me escape. Please.”

“But you’re injured,” Jazen protested.

“Can heal myself. Replicate again. Done it before. Bring the man. Knew I’d recognized him. Hand him in for the bounty. Have enough to save Raffey then. Please, help me get him back, Jazen. Please, I’m begging you.”

Jazen remained still for a brief sec, obviously fighting an inner war, then burst into action. She seized the weapon and pointed it at him. “Get on the ship,” she said in a hard voice.

Nanu’s spirit broke a little at her determination, even though he understood her desperate need to save an innocent child from harm. She’d suffered until the trainer had taken her from the brothel. Yes, her urgency to save her nephew had her panicking and overlooking the obvious. If she’d take a sec to think, she’d realize her brother was playing on her tender emotions.

Again.

If the child had truly been in danger, that should’ve been the first words out of Chobe’s mouth when they first met.

The ship engines started, making Nanu realize Hanoid had disappeared. Although injured, he intended to flee.

Nanu ignored the weapons of the security guards and walked past Jazen and Chobe and entered the class A ship. The sleek black vessel was built for speed and quick flits, rather than long space journeys. Fully fueled, the ship might get to Dalcon, if they’d modified the tanks to store extra fuel.

The doors slammed shut behind him, and even before he reached a seat, the ship took off.

The space station alarms blared into voice, their shrieks ear-piercing.

“Cease your departure now.” The order boomed through the spaceport.

Hanoid ignored the demand for them to give up and land before they were shot out of the sky.

Nanu held his breath, waiting for the spaceport weapons to deploy. One direct hit, and he wouldn’t have another worry. His past, his relationship or lack thereof with Jazen, his current predicament—none of it would matter.

Panic filled Jazen’s mind in a cacophony of disorder. What had she done? The spaceport security wouldn’t let them leave. Hanoid and Chobe had injured or killed the pilot of the flymo. They’d shot Nanu in the leg, although she doubted the injury death-threatening. He was still functioning and throwing glowers in her direction.

But what choice did she have?

She couldn’t let her nephew suffer slavery or worse, because she had no doubt a gang would seek to profit from him.

But what she didn’t understand was why Chobe hadn’t told her at the start. She would’ve given him more currency, her dreams nothing compared to her nephew’s freedom and safety. Was he playing her or not?

“Land or we’ll shoot you down. This is your last warning.” The voice blasted through the spaceport.

Grata, did they intend to shoot them out of the sky? Had she sentenced them all to death?

A boom reverberated, their ship shuddering. Her breath eased out as she realized their vessel was still rising. Security had fired a warning shot.

Satisfied they might escape in one piece, she stopped worrying about what ifs and concentrated on Chobe. The crack that had sounded when Nanu struck him—she’d suspected a mortal injury. She crouched by her brother and tentatively touched her fingers to the lump on his neck. Chobe’s eyes were closed, but they flicked open at the contact.

“I’ll be fine,” he said in a terse voice. “Takes me time to mend my body after an injury like this.”

“How many crew do you have?”

“Go and ask Hanoid. He can answer your questions. I need to focus.” His gaze swept to Nanu. “Better secure our prize with my bindings in case he decides to make trouble. From memory, he’s worth a decent bounty. Smart of you to string him along. Didn’t realize you possessed the cunning to reel in such a valuable prize.”

Jazen sensed rather than saw Nanu’s scorn. Now, because of Chobe’s actions, he wouldn’t believe she meant him no harm. Shrugging aside her pain, she unclipped the pair of auto bindings from Chobe’s belt.

Nanu’s expression remained impassive as she clicked the bindings around his wrist and secured him to a seat. She eyed his hair tendrils and rifled through the minute galley for a cloth of some description. Nothing suitable came to hand. Without exchanging a word, she wrapped a tunic around Nanu’s head while ignoring the indignant hisses coming from his hair.

Next, she trotted onto the bridge, an area not large enough for more than three people at a squeeze. Hanoid sat in the pilot’s seat.

“They’re letting us leave,” he said without removing his attention from the controls.

“Seem to be,” she agreed. “There’s only you and Chobe.”

“You’re smart. You can count.”

“Chobe implied he had a crew.”

Hanoid guided the ship away from the spaceport. “He does, but not here. We didn’t wish to attract attention.”

“Failed at that.”

Hanoid smirked. “You have a better sense of humor than your brother.”

“Not much to laugh about. Tell me about Raffey. When did you last see him? Who took him?”

Hanoid brayed, the slivers of his amusement raising her hackles. Something was off here. She’d suspected trouble when they had met Chobe in the city and now she was certain.

“Where is Raffey?”

“Chobe doesn’t have a wife. He doesn’t have a son. He made them up to extort currency from you. You’re a soft touch, or you were until you hardened up and refused to give him any more.”

“What? No? I’ve seen depictions. I’ve spoken to Sergy on the comm, seen Raffey.”

“Sergy is a prostitute who Chobe hires to play a part. Chobe sold off the most recent Raffey before we came to Viros.”

“Chobe s-sold him?”

“You deaf?”

Oh frag. She should’ve listened to her instincts back on Viros. Chobe had lied to her. Yet again.

“I’m not signing my funds over to you.”

“Chobe can replicate you. All we need is your hand for the palm print plus your eye. Dead or alive. Don’t matter to us.”

Jazen stared at him, her throat working to disperse the lump in her throat. Nausea tiptoed into her gut and set up camp. This man was a monster, and he was her brother’s friend. His business partner. She shook her head, an involuntary jerk of denial. She replayed the past, hers and Chobe’s childhood while growing up and the way they’d depended on each other, the warrant-taker jobs they’d worked together. When they’d paid off their commitments to Azarious—or rather, she had paid them off.

“Nothing to say?” Hanoid taunted, his hands lazily working the control panel of the ship and setting it on autopilot. His mouth curved into a devilish smile that sent fear scurrying into her thoughts.

Sickened, Jazen whirled on her heel and marched back to Chobe. Her brother was sitting up, putting the last touches to his face. His neck now sat in the correct position and the resources he’d used from his face slid back with a fleshy slap.

Jazen watched his resurrection every part of her screaming with guilt and fury and shame. She winced as her mistakes and missteps with her brother bashed her over the head. Regret intensified the swirl of her knotted belly. No point denying the tiny voice that whispered each time she’d handed her brother currency. The tiny voice she’d shut down because he was her brother, because of loyalty.

And now, Nanu would die. She’d die along with him because of her brother’s greed and his insistence on preying on others.

Jazen sucked in a quick breath, her chest-muscles swelling as Nanu’s gaze met hers. The tightness in her chest had her breaking the connection. Her head drooped and her shoulders rounded in defeat. She wanted to crawl into a corner and howl. Disappointment pounded the nails of grief into her mind.

Because of her, Nanu would die.

Because of her mistakes, she would die too.

She took a deep breath and straightened. After another inhalation, she thrust her chest out and her muscles locked before she relaxed. Her gaze slid stealthily around the cabin, searching.

She might die soon, but she sure as frak refused to go without a fight.

The Truth Will Out

Nanu’s spirit fractured and throbbed on seeing Jazen’s expression when she returned from the bridge. She glanced at him, then concentrated on her brother. She appeared smaller than normal, almost broken, then she straightened, her chin jutting out in determination.

The sounds coming from Chobe as he fixed his injuries to his neck sickened Nanu. Although he’d never met anyone from the Morph replicator race before, he’d heard rumors. The bastards kept coming back to life unless someone hacked their head and severed it from their body. Only then did they die, the rest of their torso and limbs disintegrating to dust.

Jazen strode over to Nanu. “I’m so sorry. I doubt we’ll survive this. They mean to kill us both. This is my fault.” She swallowed. “Chobe lied to me. Again.”

Sympathy filled Nanu. One of his hair tendrils slid from the fabric cave she’d placed over his head earlier. It slipped behind his back and gently stroked her arm in silent commiseration.

Chobe rose from the floor of the cabin. “I’m back. Stay right there and behave. I’m going to chat with Hanoid.”

“Chobe!” Hanoid roared.

“Stay,” Chobe barked at them before striding into the bridge and out of sight.

“Can you get me out of these bindings?” Nanu whispered.

“They’re special bindings. Chobe will have a way of unlocking them, but I can’t. I’m so sorry. When Chobe told me about Raffey, I snapped and acted instead of thinking logically. Nanu, I’m so sorry. You have every right to hate me for getting us into this mess.”

Raised voices came from the bridge.

“It’s all right.” He offered her a smile. “Don’t believe your brother’s words again without questioning his sincerity. Don’t worry. We’ll get out of this mess. It sounds as if someone is in pursuit. Hopefully, my friends.”

She gnawed on her bottom lip, and it was obvious she was castigating herself for her mistakes. “We need a plan.”

“Go and sit at the opposite side of the cabin. Make it more difficult for one of them to watch both of us. Wait for an opportunity, but make sure you’re confident of overpowering whichever one you attack. Don’t die,” he added. “I want to make love to you one more time in my gattoc.”

A tiny smile curved her lips for a sec, and that gave him hope and a shot of fortitude. Then, she darted to the opposite side of the cabin, half her attention on the doorway leading to the bridge while she searched for a weapon.

He’d have to rely on his hair tendrils if he failed to free his hands. While not confident or proficient, he’d do his best.

Their ship dipped without warning, a bright flash of light outside their vessel searing his retinas for an instant.

Chobe appeared in the doorway, his blaster clutched in his right hand. “What weapons do your friends have in their ship?”

“They have several classes of vessel. Each are fully equipped with standard weapons.” Elation filled him at the question. His friends were coming. They wouldn’t risk the Indy since it was better suited to long voyages and freighting goods. Ry had likely commandeered one of the new fighters Lynx and Shiloh had purchased for times such as these.

Simultaneous flashes blinded Nanu.

“There are two ships,” Jazen said with quiet satisfaction from the other side of the cabin.

“We’ll contact the ships, and you can speak to them. Call them off,” Chobe ordered Nanu.

“No.”

“I’ve seen the way you’re gaga on my sister,” Chobe said and pulled a tool from his pocket. He used it to unclip the bindings from the seats without freeing Nanu. “Follow my instructions or I’ll shoot her.”

“Very well.” Nanu rose and concentrated on making the fabric wrapped around his head appear tight and secure. He’d need to time his attack and take out both males at once. He’d seen the elders control their hair tendrils with precision, but it was a learned skill.

Chobe stood to the side and gestured for Nanu to pass him. Hanoid sat at the bridge, flying the ship himself. A natural pilot the man was not, since he wasn’t utilizing the ship’s capabilities to the fullest. Nanu would’ve used the turbo straight off to get as far away from Viros as possible. It told him that Chobe’s and Hanoid’s expertise was in capture, not escape.

Nanu contained his sneer and waited for Chobe to tell him what to do. A quick glance past Chobe showed him Jazen was creeping nearer. A good idea as long as her brother didn’t notice.

“Call one of the ships. Tell them we have no problem shooting both you and Jazen. Get them to back off.” Chobe’s gaze kept darting to the main viewport while Hanoid shared his focus between the two ships trailing them and the instrument panel. Tension gripped both, the air fraught with strain. Neither male was as confident as they’d like him to believe.

Nanu angled his body while he freed several hair tendrils and concentrated on extending them to full whip length. “I-I’m not familiar with this ship. How does the comm control work? Since I don’t have the use of my hands, you’ll have to work it for me.”

Chobe stepped closer, his gaze split between the comm section of the control panel and Nanu. Another warning flash lit the deep space around them and while both men flinched at the rock and roll of their vessel, Nanu struck. He whacked one tendril hard across Chobe’s weapon hand. A scant sec later, he whipped out another tendril in Hanoid’s direction. No finesse in this blow. He struck to disable.

Chobe’s blaster went flying, striking the instrument panel and firing with the impact. In a fluke shot, the blaster hit Hanoid in the chest, and the man dropped. Nanu concentrated on Chobe, but his third tendril whip lacked the power required to disable the man.

Chobe leaped at him, fists flying. His right fist grazed Nanu’s jaw. His head snapped back with the impact. Nanu backed up to give himself room. He shook his head to clear his mind and fell back on his training, but he was at a disadvantage with his hands bound.

“Nanu, let me,” Jazen said in a hard voice from the arch doorway that separated the cabin from the bridge.

“You?” Chobe scoffed, his gaze flicking from Nanu to her. “You’ve never bested me.”

“Because I didn’t want to beat up my brother.”

“You’re lying.”

Jazen set her jaw and made a come-to-me motion with her hands.

Chobe snorted in amusement.

Nanu took three steps back to give Jazen room, gaze watchful.

“Cease your flight and travel back to Viros,” a familiar voice ordered.

Nanu grinned, and trusting Jazen to handle her brother, he darted to the control panel and slowed the ship, placing it on autopilot by clumsily using his tendrils as hands. Then, he opened the communication channel. That took two attempts, but his control over his tendrils was improving.

“Jannike, how did you leave the castle? Where are your men?”

“Never mind,” Jannike said. “What’s happening?”

“I’ve put the ship on autopilot. One abductor is dead. Jazen is busy taking care of her brother.”

“Her brother?”

“How many men onboard?” another male voice demanded.

Nanu recognized Ellard Tetsu’s voice. Ellard was Jannike’s brother-in-law, his presence no doubt the only reason the king and duke had allowed Jannike to take part in the rescue mission.

“One dead. One alive.”

“What can we do?”

“Standby until I comm you back.”

He clicked off halfway through Jannike telling him she’d contact Ry and Kaya in the other ship.

A crash came from the main cabin, and Nanu bounded to the doorway. Jazen and Chobe were trading punches and kicks, and Jazen was more than holding her own. Nanu leaned against the wall and watched, ready to offer aid.

But he got it.

Jazen needed to finish this with Chobe.

It didn’t take Nanu long to see Jazen was playing with her brother. While Chobe was bigger, it was obvious he didn’t waste his time training or upskilling. Ry insisted that the crew attended regular training sessions to remain at full fitness for times such as these.

As he watched, Jazen let loose with a series of kicks and punches. Chobe gave a pained groan and fell back. Jazen didn’t let up on the pressure, kicking out at his legs and pushing him off balance. She led with a right hook. He struck back. An ineffectual blow that missed Jazen’s face. With his torso wide open, she drove with her left and thumped him hard in the sternum.

Chobe gasped, doubling up as he attempted to breathe. Jazen shoved him, and he fell to the floor. She kicked him in the ribs.

“Enough,” Nanu said. “You don’t want his death on your conscience.”

“He intended to kill me. He told me that.”

“Shush, sweetheart. You’re better than him, which is why you will not kick him again.” Nanu rotated his shoulders and tried to relieve the tension in his joints. “Does he have the key to unlock these cuffs?”

Jazen crouched to search through her brother’s pockets. “I can’t find it. I didn’t see what he did with it after unlocking you from the chairs. Let me see the cuffs again. He might have coded them to his fingerprints.”

Nanu sauntered closer to Jazen. Her features were pale with exhaustion.

Chobe groaned, and Nanu scanned for something to secure him. His inner beast stirred beneath his skin, and Nanu wanted to hold Jazen and comfort her. The other part of him wanted to kick the crap out of Chobe then kill him painfully and slowly for treating his sister, his only family member, with such contempt.

Jazen lifted Chobe’s hand and pressed his fingers to the cuff.

Nanu listened for a click and growled when the cuffs remained intact. He sighed. “My friends will never let me forget this.”

* * * * *

Security met them at the spaceport, weapons at the ready. Kaya, Jannike and Ry sprinted toward the ship while Ellard followed at a more sedate pace.

Kaya slid to a halt, her blue hair swishing against her chin. “Who is the bad guy?”

“He’s in there.” Nanu straightened his sore shoulders as much as possible and braced for their teasing. His hair tendrils hissed in warning, swarming around his head in a slow dance.

“Whoa,” Jannike said. “That’s creepy. Why didn’t I learn of this development? I’m the queen. I should know everything.”

“These are indestructible cuffs. They won’t open with a fingerprint,” Jazen said. “Chobe had the key, but we can’t locate it now. Do not give Nanu a tough time. He saved us.”

Kaya opened her mouth and shut it again with a click.

“Let me see,” Ellard said, gentle hands rotating Nanu so he could survey the cuffs. “These are recent technology, the same as the new ones I’ve ordered.”

“Ordered?” Nanu asked faintly.

“Huh!” Ellard said, breaking into a broad grin. “Got ya. The order came in six cycles ago. I’ll make a call to get a key sent here.”

“Ha!” Kaya’s shoulders shook in merriment.

“That was not amusing,” Jazen said.

Ellard gestured at one of the security guards, and they took charge of Chobe.

“Did you want to speak to Chobe before he goes?” Nanu asked. “Find out about his wife and son.”

“He made them up,” Jazen said in disgust. Pain at his deceit beat at her skull, her temples, her chest. He’d made a fool of her. Used her for his benefit. She had no clue how he’d spent all the funds she’d given him so far. “Take him away. I don’t want to see him again.”

She’d always believed her brother had her back, that he’d be there for her in the same way she protected him. A part of her had owed Chobe. Azarious had intended to leave her at the brothel, not seeing the point in taking a female who’d likely spend most of her time on her back. Jazen had surprised Azarious with her shrill demands for him to train her too.

Smiling faintly, she made a mental note to send Azarious currency to cover his commission so he wouldn’t ask questions. She recalled the child she’d been when they first met him, already responsible beyond her years. Determined. Feisty. Insistent.

Her lips twisted as another memory darted back to her. Chobe had cried. That was true, but it was because Azarious had been so big and scary with his red skin and black matted hair. His bushy black beard. She had marched up to him and yanked on his hair when he’d ignored her. She’d told him Chobe was her brother, and they stayed together.

Azarious had stared at her with his scarlet eyes. In the blink, he’d measured her, then he’d agreed and told her family was important. He’d give her a chance, but she’d need to work hard and pay back his investment.

To the amusement of the two men accompanying Azarious, she’d thrust out her hand to seal the deal. Touching many of the alien races held danger and possible death, but Jazen remembered how she’d wanted to impress upon Azarious her intent.

“Nanu, I’ll take you to security headquarters to free the bindings for you,” Ellard said. “You were wise not to cut them since they tighten farther and some of them shock the captive.”

“Thanks,” Nanu said. “I want to get through this in one piece.”

“I’ll get someone to take care of your leg too,” Ellard said. “We’ll see you guys later at the castle.”

“Are you coming, Jazen?” Nanu asked.

“No.” She needed to be alone to ponder, to feel sorry for herself.

“We’ll take Jazen back with us,” Jannike said smoothly.

Jazen stiffened since she read between the lines. They intended to watch her in case she inflicted more hurt on Nanu. Despite her irritation, she empathized with their reasoning. After the way Chobe had acted, the way she had acted, they didn’t trust her. Ashamed, she hung her head, staring at the sparkling white plastique squares on the floor, rather than facing whatever expression Nanu wore.

Disgust.

Anger.

Disappointment.

Betrayal.

He had a right to every emotion.

Jazen’s lifeforce muscle pounded, trying to escape her chest and follow the man she’d come to care for. She watched his boots, Ellard’s boots until both men rounded a corner and disappeared.

“You can ride back to the castle with me.” Jannike glanced at two silent males standing in the background. “Your presence will help to balance out the dynamics.”

“No,” Kaya objected in a hard tone. “I wanted to speak with Jazen.”

“Leave it, Kaya,” Ry said. “Let’s go. Camryn and Mogens will want news of Nanu’s safety.”

The pair left, but Kaya glowered at her over her shoulder before they vanished.

Jazen aimed for impassive and prayed she’d succeeded.

“It’s me you should worry about,” Jannike said. “I’m the queen and I have the power to put you in the dungeon.”

Happy. Happy. Joy. Joy.

After her threat, Jannike escorted her to a zippy red flymo, a sleeker and more mobile model than the chubby vehicles the locals used as transport. One silent guard marched in front of them with the other bringing up the rear.

Jazen could have made a run for it. She might have made an escape, yet guilt kept her chained in position as if she wore the bindings.

They settled inside the flymo and one of their guards piloted the vehicle.

“What do you want to do?” Jannike asked.

Jazen frowned, slanting her body a fraction to observe the queen’s face. “What do you mean?”

“Do you want to stay or leave? What do you want to do?”

She wanted to stay with Nanu, but she didn’t deserve him. “I-I…” She trailed off, her lifeforce muscle aching so badly, she pressed her fingers to her chest. She blinked. Once. Twice. The rapid eye movement pushed the moisture out instead of shoving it back.

“I knew it,” Jannike said. “You care for him.”

Jazen stared back, but she remained silent. She couldn’t have spoken even if she tried, with her throat thick and her gaze shrouded by tears.

“We will go for a drink at my favorite estaminet,” the queen announced. “You will like it there. It is on Second Street, and the owner welcomes all, as long as they behave and pay proper homage to his ale. I’ve heard he wants to expand and offer more substantial food with his ales. You might be interested in speaking with Retsae.”

“Why are you helping me?”

“Everyone requires help at some stage of their lives.”

“That’s not it,” Jazen said with certainty.

“Ry helped me when I needed it. When I was much younger and desperately needed a job. Ry, Nanu, his brother Yep, Mogens and Kaya. All of us had secrets but none of that mattered. Together, we built a business and a family. Later, Camryn mated with Ry, and our situation changed direction again. I have mates and children. So does Ry. But we still have strong family bonds between us, built on loyalty and adversity. Our mates understand our bond and accept it. Our family has grown bigger and we have different responsibilities, but if one of us is ever in trouble, we come together. Nanu loves you. Are you brave enough to accept his love?”

“I’m frightened. So much has happened.” Jazen gave an irritable shrug, not understanding how to rebuild trust. “I’m not going to capture Nanu and claim the bounty, but what happens if someone else recognizes him? It would be easy for one of you to say it was my fault. That I told one of my friends.”

“Since meeting you, Nanu’s appearance has changed.”

“I suppose.” The change had been gradual, but his hair tendrils altered his appearance. Gray tinged the black. The beads he’d worn at the end of each strand, when she first met him, had dropped off. His torso seemed more muscled.

“The king sent one of his trusted guards to Indra to investigate the man financing the bounty. Nanu says he didn’t murder the woman, and I believe him. If this corporation man framed Nanu and Yep, he might have done it to others. We hope to gain proof of the man abusing his position. Once we do that, we can get the bounty canceled.”

“You would do that for Nanu?”

“As I said, he’s family. Lynx and Shiloh understand how important my friends are to me. We stand together. If you care for Nanu, if you stay, you’d become part of our family.”

The flymo landed right outside the estaminet. Jannike waited for the guards to exit the vehicle before standing.

“Come and meet Retsae. We must hurry. The rest of the troop will arrive soon to disturb our privacy.”

“The rest of the troop?”

“You’ll see.” Jannike rolled her eyes and shot a narrow-eyed glower at the silent men with them. “The guards have already blabbed about our destination.”

Jazen followed Jannike from the flymo. Second Street contained a combination of businesses. Food, clothes, a store selling ugly black insects, one with a scantily clad woman standing out the front and a travel bureau. There were others, but the queen swept her away, guiding her toward an estaminet.

“Queen Jannike!” a beefy man with a delicate green complexion boomed from across the room.

Silence fell until Jannike said, “All right people. Nothing to see here. Stop gawking.”

“Retsae, I’ve brought you someone to meet. She wishes to start a business baking pies, and I believe you might be interested in working with her.”

The big man cocked his head and wiped his hand down his hunter-green apron as he assessed her. “I would need to taste your pies before we come to any agreement.”

“Of course. I need to try them too,” Jannike declared. “Is there a spare table for us?” She glanced around the crowded estaminet. “Ah! We will sit at the bar.”

“Your majesty! No, I will move some of my customers,” Retsae said.

“No, I enjoy sitting at the bar,” the queen stated in a firm voice.

Jazen followed her, amused despite herself. It was impossible to stay downcast with the queen bossing her around.

“Your usual?” Retsae asked.

“Please,” Jannike said.

They’d barely seated themselves at the bar when the drinks attendant set two steaming tankards in front of them.

“You.” Retsae’s intense brown gaze bored into her. “What is your name? What pies would you bake to sell to my customers?”

“I am Jazen Lav,” she said, speaking her true name for the first time. “To start, I would bake a savory pie. And also a sweet pie. Once I had learned the tastes of the customers and talked to them, I might make a special pie each day, one to use the available local produce. I would keep the menu to the three pies. Not too much choice to make it easy for the servers.”

“You will give me a shopping list to make your two pies. I will arrange for the ingredients to be here tom-cycle. Make the pies in my kitchen, and my customers shall judge their quality. Do you agree?”

“Yes.” Jazen bobbed her head with enthusiasm. Cooking allowed her mind to settle. Making her pies helped to bring sense to her tumbled musings. Even if Retsae hated her pies, she could plan and finesse her methods. “But I would prefer to choose my ingredients at first. I will shop in the market.”

“Very well.” Retsae turned to the queen. “Should I save that table for your friends?”

Jannike beamed. “Retsae understands my friends. They didn’t approve of me getting you alone. They wished to weigh in on your relationship with Nanu. Thank you, Retsae. That is a good idea.”

Jazen sipped from her tankard with caution, taking a bigger drink when the tart hot juice met with her approval. A sweet pie would match this drink perfectly. She could call it a queen pie. The savory pie, perhaps a king pie. And the pie that changed each day, she’d call the market pie since its type would depend on the ingredients available on the cycle.

“Well, have you decided?” Jannike asked.

“I am coming to cook pies here tom-cycle.”

“No, not that. About Nanu,” the queen said with clear impatience.

“She will discuss that with Nanu,” a gravely masculine voice declared from behind them.

She and Jannike shifted to view the owner of the voice.

Two large men, both with black hair and green eyes, stood behind them.

“My mates,” Jannike said drily.

The king and the duke? Jazen swallowed, fiercely glad she wasn’t standing because she feared her legs would fail her. Royalty surrounded her. Her. The daughter of a prostitute and the prostitute’s customer.

Nanu and Kaya ambled into the estaminet next. Well, Kaya ambled while Nanu had a distinct limp.

“Ah, and the rest of my friends. You couldn’t have dawdled,” she demanded. “I hadn’t finished speaking with Jazen.”

“You’re still here,” Nanu said.

Jazen read his fear, his concern she might have left and the angst inside her settled a fraction. “I’m still here,” she agreed. “Tom-cycle, I am baking pies for the customers to trial.”

“Excellent.” Nanu beamed with satisfaction.

“Nanu, you owe us a drink,” Kaya said.

“I have saved you a table.” Retsae gestured at the large space in the corner with a wave of one beefy hand.

The group of friends settled around the scarred table, some shouting greetings to other customers. Nanu swept Jazen along and seated her beside him. Under the table, he reached for her hand and squeezed.

Annoying tears blanked her sight again, falling even though she attempted to blink them away. Finally, she admitted the truth to herself. She hungered for what these people had.

Friends. Family.

Loyalty and love.

She risked a glance at him. Nanu didn’t seem angry. He was sitting beside her, holding her hand.

“Are you staying?” he asked in a low voice. “Do you want to? Will you stay with me?”

“I-I… Do you still want me here after everything that has happened with Chobe?”

“You aren’t responsible for his actions.”

“But—”

“I want you to stay with me,” Nanu said.

Hope flared in her at his certainty.

“All right.”

If he changed his mind, she could still leave. No matter what his friends believed, she’d never draw attention to this man or place him in danger again.

He squeezed her hand, his eyes crinkling at the corners. His hair tendrils stroked her face, and one wrapped around her neck, tugging as he leaned closer to kiss her.

“Wow, your tendrils are handy,” Kaya said.

Jazen didn’t hear the next comment since she was too busy enjoying the slant of his lips against hers, the hungriness as he kissed her deeply. When he raised his head, she heard the clapping and cheering coming from his friends.

Once everyone settled, he spoke to her in an undertone. “Can I help you tom-cycle? I can take direction in a kitchen. Please, I’d enjoy seeing you work. I won’t get in the way.”

“Your help is welcome.” She secretly thrilled because her cooking interested him. The owner of this estaminet and Nanu’s friends had gifted her with an opportunity, and trepidation already stalked her mind. Hopefully Nanu’s presence would steady her since she wanted to embrace the future she’d only dreamed about until now.

“Are those hair tendrils part of your new crazy powers?” Kaya asked, leaning closer so neither Jazen nor Nanu had a chance of ignoring her.

“What crazy powers?” Jazen asked.

Nanu didn’t seem any different. It’s true she hadn’t noticed his hair at first, but he’d set her on edge with his teasing and she’d never lingered. She’d escaped his presence at first opportunity and concentrated on finding Amme Vanak.

“As members of my race grow older we gain in strength. That’s all Kaya meant,” Nanu said.

Jazen didn’t miss the hard glaring demand Nanu sent his friend. Curious, she cast her mind back and came up blank. Yes, he was strong, and he’d seduced her without breaking a sweat. No, it wasn’t important. Nanu was a man of integrity, and one she trusted.

After their drinks, Jazen wandered back to the castle with Nanu and his friends. She climbed the steps leading to the upper level and wandered across the square to the main gate. Nanu held her hand the entire time, and equal parts of fear and excitement battled for supremacy within her mind.

There was no doubt of her confusion.

Her once clear future had grown murkier than a Gruseics fog.

“What will you do with my brother?” she asked.

“He will stand trial for abduction, fleeing Viros without clearance and any other charges I can make stick,” Ellard said as head of security. “We will call witnesses, and he will have a fair trial.”

“I’ll have to testify against my brother?” Seeing him again… Reliving the betrayal. A cold sweat broke out on her back and chest. She barely suppressed an accompanying shiver at facing Chobe. Yet she’d do it because it was the right thing to do.

“Possibly,” Ellard said. “It depends on what comes of my investigations. We’re making enquiries about Hanoid. If we learn that he and Chobe are wanted on another planet, it’s possible we will ship Chobe to that planet.”

“We’re going back to my chamber,” Nanu informed his friends once they entered the castle.

Kaya cocked her head, a sly smile curving her lips. “Will we see you for dinner?”

“Yes.” Nanu urged Jazen toward the exit.

“Promise not to be late,” Kaya said. “We don’t want our meal to spoil because we have to wait.”

“Ignore the comments.” Nanu slipped his arm around her waist and guided her toward his chamber. Nanu halted her once they were out of sight of his friends. “It will be all right, Jazen.”

Nanu sensed she didn’t believe him, shock at Chobe’s lies and cheating evident in the way her stare turned unfocused. The way unshed tears shimmered in her eyes. Her brother had done a job of slicing and dicing her confidence. The brother she thought she’d known hadn’t existed and had certainly never loved or cared for her. She probably felt much as he had after losing Yep, and it would take time for her to regain her equilibrium.

He took her hand again because the physical contact eased the slight fear building inside him. Being abducted hadn’t bothered him as much as Jazen’s silence. Her patent unhappiness.

His inner beast roared to life, an urgent need to comfort her. He drew her against his side, lust grabbing him without warning. His mouth filled with sweet honey as his teeth lengthened, the points sharper than normal.

Eager to reach his chamber and gain privacy, he lengthened his steps. Jazen kept pace. Out of patience, Nanu swept her into his arms. With ground-eating steps, he traversed the entrance and audience rooms and entered the corridor that led to his sleeping chamber.

“You don’t have to carry me.”

“I’m an impatient man.” He glanced down at her, passive in his arms, and determination swelled within him. They were the perfect team. His friends were already coming around, seeing in her what he saw.

Nanu reached his chamber and let her slide down his body, the friction sending his pulse leaping. “I’ve decided to leave the talking until later.”

“Oh.”

Nanu grinned, comforted by her reaction. He shunted her inside, then shut and locked the door and sucked in a huge breath to calm himself.

“Your gattoc is still here,” Jazen murmured as they walked into birdsong and the tinkle of water. “It’s hard to believe this is your chamber.”

“I expected my normal chamber,” Nanu said. “I can’t believe Leeam and Sheera are doing this for us. Come.” He extended his hand and once she curled her fingers around his, he led her into his gattoc.

A soft breeze fluttered the gauzy fabric while a bird tweeted and chirped from one of the forest trees. In the distance, he fancied he heard the water tumbling over the falls.

Once inside, he pulled her closer and touched his nose to hers. Her sweet scent tugged at him, urging him to hurry.

“Nanu,” she whispered, her eyes wide. She reached up to cup his face with her hands, and Nanu smiled, his pulse jumping with anticipation. Jazen made him forget everything, even the lingering tenderness in his leg.

He slanted his mouth over hers and sank into a world of sensations and possibilities. If only Jazen gave Viros a chance. It was a fine place to live, and he’d hate to leave his friends. The family he’d adopted.

“You taste sweet.” Her tongue slipped past his lips to savor him, her actions prodding his inner beast into greater urgency.

He continued kissing her as his hands got busy with her clothes. A dimple he hadn’t noticed before dug in to her cheek when he tangled her up trying to take off her tunic, and his mood lightened, some of his angst fading.

“Back up,” he ordered, pushing her lightly away from him.

Jazen smiled and untangled her arms from her tunic. She whisked it over her head and let the black syncotton fall to the floor. After toeing off her boots, she tugged off her trews and undergarments, dropping those with her tunic. She cocked a hip, posing a little and basking under Nanu’s regard. His eyes sparkled and when he smiled, she caught a hint of fang, which she’d come to learn meant arousal.

“You’re slow,” she chided.

“You distracted me on purpose.”

“Maybe.”

Nanu lifted his tunic over his head, exposing the thick slabs of muscle on his chest and the ridges of his abs. He watched her as he removed his boots and foot coverings, and continued with his steady gaze while he lowered his trews.

“Where did you get your underthings?”

“Told you before. Picked them up at a small planet we visited.”

She sashayed closer and ran her fingers along the band that clung to his hips. He shivered at her touch, and when she cupped the bulge of his cock, his patience snapped.

He snatched her up and dropped her on the gel-pad. She stared up at him, her lifeforce muscle beating rapidly. Then, his arms wrapped around her, their lips clinging. The sweet honey she always tasted when she kissed him filled her mouth. Her tongue flicked out and dueled with his.

Hands cupped and teased her breasts, driving her to a point of hunger. A mystery. A few kisses and gentle touches from Nanu and lust simmered through her. Past lovers had left her mind untouched. Not so Nanu.

He parted their lips, dragged his mouth along her neck. He nipped a little and soothed the sting with his tongue. The spot tingled, and when he nipped again and drew against her flesh, she moaned. He sucked harder, and she clung to him, the bite of pain flushing pleasure through her nerve endings. She shivered, the slickness between her thighs growing.

Nanu lapped a circle around one nipple and repeated the action when she squirmed.

“Nanu, please.”

“You please me, sweetheart.”

“I ache.”

He stood to strip off his undergarment and her gaze traced his jutting shaft with unabashed curiosity. She watched him observing her as if her feminine hunger pleased him. A deep rumble escaped him.

She blinked. “What was that?”

“Me showing appreciation of your pretty body.”

Her lips shaped to an O and heat surged to her cheeks. He grinned as he joined her on the gel-pad.

“I need to compliment you more.”

“No one has ever told me I please them.” The truth. Azarious used to grunt when she handed over his percentage of bounties. Chobe used to hold out his hand, and she had seldom received a thanks. Hindsight had her gritting her teeth.

He let out another rumble and pressed his lips to hers. His addictive sweetness washed over her, making her dizzy and hungry for his touch. Their lips and tongues dueled as they shared themselves and stoked the pleasure humming between them. Her hands crept around his neck to draw him even closer while she struggled to contain the demand soaring through her mind and body. She wanted him inside her, but no. Now that he had her in his arms, he slowed, and varied his kisses. Short kisses. Soft kisses. Tender kisses. He nuzzled her neck and sucked her smooth, soft skin.

Another of those masculine rumbles escaped him, and he nibbled, his teeth scraping her flesh in a way that pushed decadent sensations to life. Her quim moistened, her nub aching with need.

“More,” she demanded.

Nanu lifted his head to stare at her, his hooded eyes heavy with lust and male adoration. “Yes,” he whispered and dipped his head again.

He licked the slender column of her neck, gliding downward until he lingered at a pulse point. Jazen sighed, lazily running her hand down his arm. His sharp teeth pricked her skin, but instead of hurting, her lifeforce muscle beat harder and faster. She moaned, pressing against him, urging him onward. To do something, anything to assuage the craving building inside her.

Without warning, he bit down, slicing his sharp teeth through her skin. His mouth pulled at her neck, but not a shred of alarm surfaced. He sucked the lifeforce from her, each pull and draw of his mouth pushing waves of pleasure through her veins. Her world shrank to Nanu and the tremors he pulled from her willing body.

The sensations built and built until she trembled beneath him, balanced on the cusp of something bigger. Nanu eased away, and she moaned at the loss. Why was he stopping?

“Grata. I shouldn’t have bitten you so hard.” Regret and shame shaded his words, and alarm flitted over his features.

“It felt good. Fantastic,” she said, her voice emerging thick and slow. She had to push out the words.

He seemed to hesitate, then he dipped his head again. He licked the wound, gathering her lifeforce. His eyelids lowered, shading his gaze from her but he seemed to enjoy tending her. She shuddered at each drag of his tongue and wriggled against him in silent demand.

“Touch me, Nanu.”

“Yes,” he said simply.

His hands cupped her breasts and strummed her nipples. He spanned her hips with his callused hands and rearranged her body, splaying her legs.

Each touch, each caress stoked her pleasure until she feared she’d detonate and lose any semblance of control.

“Open your eyes,” he whispered. “I want you to see me as I love you.”

“L-love?” She stumbled over the word, shocked that he’d utter it to her.

“Yes, sweetheart. You must sense my regard for you.” He ran his tongue along the slit between her thighs, his hot breath against her sensitive tissues pushing her to desperation. His hair tendrils stroked and hummed, adding to her sensual frustration.

“Jazen?”

To her annoyance, he’d lifted his head, denying her the pleasurable strokes that were driving her body to madness of the best kind.

“I don’t care about your brother or what he’s done. Shove him out of your mind and this bed. I don’t want a threesome. All I want is you.” He skimmed his tongue across her nub, the touch full of erotic promise but not enough to push her into the climax she so badly craved. “Jazen, your eyes are closed again. I want you to watch my face as I tell you this.”

He moved back, then settled himself between her legs. His shaft notched at her entrance and he pushed inside a fraction.

Jazen forced her eyes wide and saw Nanu’s approval. It glinted in his eyes and curved his lips enough to display his sharp, white teeth.

“I love you, Jazen. I want you to stay with me and be my mate.”

Shock blasted her at his words. Her brother would’ve scoffed at Nanu for laying himself open, for displaying weakness to another being. She tested the words in her mind. It was easy to see his sincerity. He meant it, and her barriers crumbled.

“I’m not sure I understand what love is,” she confessed, instinctively offering the same honesty as him. “I like you a lot and leaving the castle and starting again on another planet, makes my lifeforce muscle ache.”

“Close enough, sweetheart,” Nanu murmured, his smile widening to allow her a good view of his teeth. Although wicked and sharp, they didn’t alarm her because his bite had given her so much pleasure. “That’s close enough.”

He pushed deeper into her, distracting her from his teeth. His hair tendrils stroked her breasts, her lips, and she playfully sucked on one, the same honeyed flavor she tasted when she kissed him bursting across her taste buds. Nanu’s groan told her he didn’t mind her actions, his passionate kiss enforcing this idea.

His cock stretched her, the grooves hitting every sensitive spot inside her. He thrust, invading and retreating, sending that elusive pleasure soaring through her again.

Each stroke drove her closer to completion, and when Nanu nuzzled her neck and bit into her again, she jolted, the pull of his mouth pushing her into a shattering climax. Nanu shuddered, pulled back and drove into her rippling channel, his loud groan of pleasure tickling her throat. He licked across the spot he’d sucked on and stilled, embedded deep within her.

She felt the spurts of his seed, splashing from his cock and the sense of rightness, of peace, washed over her. She was right where she wanted to be, and if Nanu pardoned her, then she’d work to forgive herself for the problems she’d brought to Nanu and his friends. Her brother’s betrayal… Now that would take longer to deal with, to work out her emotions. Swallowing, she shoved her brother to a box in the back of her mind and slammed it shut. She didn’t want anything to spoil this perfect moment with Nanu.

“That was amazing.” Nanu kissed her tenderly but didn’t slide from her body. Instead, he wrapped his arms around her and held her tighter, as if he never wanted to let her go. Even his hair tendrils wrapped around her, bringing comfort and a sense of belonging and rightness.

Excitement burst through Nanu. They were locked together. He had no idea how long they’d remain this way, but since Jazen didn’t seem inclined to move, he refused to stress. But he should tell her.

“Jazen.”

“Hmmm?”

He smiled at her lazy satisfaction, content to linger, but he’d learned from experience how much women valued truth. He wanted to start right.

“We’re locked together. I couldn’t separate my body from yours even if someone stormed the castle.”

Her brow furrowed, and she wriggled. The slight tug on his cock prized a moan from him while her eyes widened. “How long does this last? What is the purpose?”

“I’m not sure, but it won’t last for too long. I believe it ensures a fruitful mating.”

“Offspring?”

Caution marched across his face. “Is that a problem?”

“I have a birth control implant in my arm.”

Part of him filled with sorrow, but the truth was he needed patience. Jazen wasn’t certain of him yet. “Would you like to have offspring? Children?”

“I’ve never considered the matter because…”

She hadn’t lived a life conducive to children, and deep down she probably wondered if she’d take after her mother and mystery father. Nanu knew this instinctively and understood. He wondered if she did and decided to push.

“Because?”

“I feared I’d be like my mother.”

“Never. You have a fighting spirit yet you consider others before you act. You’d never spurn your own child or use them for profit like your brother.”

“Thanks.”

“Nothing but the truth. I’d like to have children with you. When we’re both ready.”

She stared at him, clear wonderment blazing across her features. “I’d like a family.”

“You haven’t worked it out yet, but you already have one. You have me, and my friends are coming around. You’ll see.” As he spoke, the slight tension on his cock eased. He waited a tad longer and slowly parted their bodies. “I love you, Jazen. You haven’t agreed to stay yet.”

“Don’t you have to seek approval from the king and queen? Or your friends?”

“I will,” he agreed. “But I seek your approval first.” His pulse roared in his ears while he waited for her reply.

“Yes,” she whispered.

“Thank you.” He spoke the words aloud to Jazen, but in truth, he sent his thanks to the goddess for bringing him his perfect mate. “Would you like one last swim in the hot pool before we join the others for a meal?”

“I’d enjoy that.”

His hair tendrils slid away from her skin, one lingering on her lips before they relaxed against his scalp. Unable to resist, Nanu kissed her and rose before extending a hand to aid her.

“Your neck.” Wonder filled him as his finger stroked the small copper-colored flower adorning her skin, exactly where he’d bitten her. “I’ve left a mark. It’s shaped like a flower.”

“Do you have a looking glass?”

“Not in my gattoc, but I have one in my chamber.”

“Nanu.” Jazen gaped at his hair tendrils. “Your hair is changing color.”

It was. He didn’t recall any mention of the color of hair tendrils altering. As a youngster, he’d seen dreads transform to tendrils and become sentient. The color change—that came as a surprise. He directed one in front of his face and broke into a broad smile when he saw the shade of copper matched the tiny daisy flower on her neck. Relief, swiftly followed by peace, flowed through him.

“I believe that means we’re mates.”

“Really? And what does that mean?”

“My inner beast has chosen you to complete him, and the copper markings are to show our belonging to everyone who sees us.”

“You don’t resemble the depictions in the warrant-taker’s files now.” She cocked her head. “I doubt if anyone would recognize you. Your features are slimmer and your hair is so different.”

“That’s a good thing,” Nanu said. Another layer of safety for him and his friends. “Are you ready for dinner?”

“Starving,” Jazen said.

A series of thumps sounded on his door.

“Nanu, are you done in there? Our meal is ready and everyone is waiting. Queen Jannike sent me to get you.” Kaya emphasized the queen part.

“We require a quick wash. Jazen and I will be there soon.”

“Don’t tell me,” Kaya hollered. “I’ll need to scrub my imagination as it is. Awk! I need a reeb to wash the taste from my mouth.”

Nanu shared a smile with Jazen. “We’d better hurry.” As he spoke, the gattoc and the forest faded away to display his chamber.

Jazen scrutinized his belongings and the souvenirs he’d collected during his travels on the Indy. Curiosity sparkled in her, and she looked forward to learning more about him with no secrets between them.

“This way to my bathing chamber.” He tugged her past their trail of clothes, which was all that remained of the gattoc, to clean up before Kaya beat their door down again.

Washed and dressed, Nanu showed her the way to the communal dining room. He enjoyed seeing the wonder in her eyes as she viewed the various collections displayed by the former queen. These rooms always made him worry about breaking something valuable, and he much preferred the more casual rooms where they spent most of their down time.

“They’re here!” Kaya shouted.

“I’m sorry we’re late. What?” Nanu asked. “What’s wrong?”

“What happened to you?” Kaya demanded, circling him and inspecting him like goods for sale. “If I’d understood you’d transform into such a pretty copper, I might have flirted with you.” She fluttered her lashes at him.

“How did that happen?” Camryn asked.

“Is that part of the mating process for your race?” Mogens asked, his face clear and white, his violet eyes inquisitive.

“I didn’t realize my tendrils would color to copper or that Jazen would get a matching mark. My training wasn’t complete when Yep and I left Indra.”

“So you’re mated to Jazen?” Ry asked.

“Yes.” He twined his fingers with Jazen’s and drew her closer, well-pleased with this cycle. “Jazen is my mate and I would ask permission for her to stay with me.”

“And if we don’t give you permission?” Jannike asked.

“I would have to leave with my mate.” Nanu prayed this was his friends’ idea of a joke.

“That won’t be necessary,” King Lynx said, “Jazen will need to swear on her honor not to hurt or injure or betray anyone in my extended family. As long as she does that, she is welcome to stay.”

“Yes.” Jazen never hesitated with her promise. “I will never deliberately hurt, injure or betray any of the beings who make the castle their home. In addition, I promise to live an honorable life and comport myself with integrity. And finally, in front of you all, I wish to swear my affection and loyalty to Nanu.” She faced him and clasped both his hands. “I will accept you as my mate for as long as we both live. I adore you, my Nanu, and with each passing cycle, I like you more.”

Silence filled the rowdy communal rooms after her announcement, and Nanu found his vision misting. She loved him, but she didn’t trust herself to own her emotions after her brother’s disloyalty. That didn’t matter to him. As long as they were together, he didn’t need a declaration of love. He could wait for her to settle her thoughts.

“You may now kiss the bride,” Camryn said with a delighted clap of her hands.

Pleasure and happiness filled Nanu as he drew Jazen into his arms. He pressed his lips to her and kissed her with passion. His hair tendrils hummed and stroked her face and slid to her breasts.

“Whoa, that’s hot.” Kaya fanned her face.

When Nanu released Jazen, Kaya was still flapping her hand in a cooling motion.

“I need to find me a mate. I’m the last man standing,” she complained.

“You won’t have time,” Ry said. “We fly to Narenda in three cycles to complete our contract work for the dragons.”

Nanu wrapped his arm around Jazen and listened to his friends’ chatter. He’d been happy before with his friends and work, but Jazen provided the missing element. He knew that now. “I’m hungry. And we need to toast my enchanting mate.”

“We also need to discuss your freaky hair,” Kaya added.

And chuckling, Nanu and Jazen joined their friends at the table for their evening meal.

Pies And Happiness

Jazen woke early, on the cusp of whitelight, snuggled against Nanu’s muscular chest. During the blacklight, they’d tossed off the covers, and now, nothing spoiled her view. Satisfaction filled her and a lightness of spirit she’d never experienced before. She ran her fingers over his hip because she could, still finding it hard to believe Nanu had claimed her, that he loved her.

“Why are you awake?” he grumbled. “Didn’t I tire you out enough during the blacklight?”

“It’s time for me to go to the market. I told Retsae I preferred to do the shopping. My pies require fresh ingredients.”

“The market? Now?” He yawned, making her smile.

“You stay here. I’ll do my market shop and go straight to the estaminet to bake my pies.”

Nanu pulled away from her and stood, stretching with his hands above his head. Distracted for an instant, her gaze wandered his muscular body, hardly believing he wanted her. “Hurry, lazybones. I promised I’d help you.”

“I’m certain you have other things you need to do.”

“Shush. I want you to follow your dreams.”

She didn’t dissuade him during their hustle to the market or when she bartered for ingredients. She didn’t dissuade him when he hailed a flymo to deliver them and their shopping to the estaminet. She didn’t dissuade him when Retsae opened the door and showed them the kitchen he’d recently added.

Since it was obvious he bore a stubborn gene, she set him to work chopping vegetables and peeling the tart red fruit she intended to put in her pies. She chopped the protein and set it in a huge pot to cook, then mixed her edible shells.

Out in the main customer area, someone thumped on the front door. Retsae must’ve answered it because the banging ceased.

Kaya appeared. “I’ve come to help,” she announced. “What do you want me to do?”

Jazen opened and closed her mouth, shocked at Kaya’s arrival and humbled at the offer of help when Kaya didn’t have to do anything.

Nanu winked at Jazen. “You can help me.”

Kaya washed her hands and set to work with Nanu, good-natured teasing flying between the pair.

The morn passed quickly, but soon the scent of baking pies filled the air. By the time she’d scrubbed the kitchen to a pristine condition, her pies sat on racks ready for sale.

After consulting with her, Retsae wrote a sign and opened for business.

Apprehension slid through Jazen as she peeked from the kitchen into the estaminet. Retsae had told her that in the early whitelight his customers purchased hot drinks while later in the cycle and toward the blacklight, his customers drank alcohol. “What if no one wants to try my pies?”

“Sweetheart, if they taste as good as they smell, the customers will buy every single one.”

“We’ve used all your ingredients.” Kaya studied the finished pies. “I intend to purchase your first one and sit outside with a warm bevy. A meat pie.”

Retsae ambled into the kitchen. “I have orders for you. Four pies. Two of each.”

Jazen’s hands trembled as she assembled the order for Kaya and the new one of four pies. She handed the trays to Retsae and peeked from the doorway.

Nanu stood beside her, his touch comforting and tender too. She sucked in a deep breath and waited, every muscle quivering with nerves because this meant so much to her.

“What if they don’t like my pies?” she repeated.

“Let’s go and see,” Nanu suggested.

Nanu guided her to the outside seating area and laughed when he spotted Ry, Camryn, Jannike and Mogens sitting with Kaya—the crew who’d arrived on Viros with Nanu and made the planet their home.

“Your friends came.” Their support humbled her and filled her with gratitude and delight.

“Because they’re family,” Nanu whispered. “That’s what family does. They help and support each other.”

“These are delicious.” Camryn took another big bite.

“You have more orders,” Retsae said from behind her.

Jazen beamed at him. “Join your friends. I’ll come to sit with you once I’ve completed the orders.”

“Are you sure?”

“Go.” She gave him a tiny push of encouragement before she hurried back to her pies. The orders came quick and fast after the first ones. She served all but her last pie and approached Retsae. “This one is for you.”

Retsae accepted the pie with alacrity and a nod of thanks. “The customers have told me they enjoyed your cooking. I offer you a working partnership. You pay me a rental for using my kitchen and save me a pie every cycle.”

Relief had her smiling. “I accept.”

“We will sign a contract tom-cycle.”

“That is satisfactory.”

“Excellent. Go and spend time with your friends. You should thank them. The scent of your pies drifted to passersby and attracted more customers.”

“I’ll see you tom-cycle.”

Dazed, Jazen wandered through the estaminet to the outdoor seating area. Everywhere, customers were eating her pies.

“There she is,” Kaya said. “Tell them. Tell them I helped you make these pies.”

“She did. Thank you for coming to help and for eating my pies,” Jazen said.

Mogens issued a contented hum. “They are delicious.”

A chorus of agreement sounded, and Jazen met Nanu’s perceptive gaze. He grinned at her, blowing a kiss, then pointed at the empty seat beside him. In that moment, her chest struggled to hold the emotions pummeling her. Gratitude. Excitement. Love.

Despite not having much of a family, she’d found her own with Nanu and his friends.

She slipped into the seat and kissed Nanu’s cheek. “The day I met you was the luckiest day for me. I am so happy to be part of your life.”

Nanu smiled and his hair tendrils reached out, caressing her cheek. “My pleasure, sweetheart. It was my pleasure.”

Delight whispered through Jazen. Excitement. Anticipation. Although the future held uncertainties, with this man at her side, she’d face it head on and enjoy every cycle.

Are you curious about Ransom and the dragon shifters on the planet of Narenda? Learn more in the upcoming House of the Cat romance—Enticed & Seduced. If you’d like me to notify you when the book is live, please sign up for an Enticed & Seduced reminder.

Can I ask you a favor? If you liked this story, can you do something for me? Please consider leaving a review. Reviews help authors like me stay visible and allow me to keep bringing you more stories.

Please turn the page for an excerpt from Snared by Saber, the first book in my paranormal shifter Middlemarch Capture series and also Interplanetary Love, a tongue-in-cheek standalone romance.

Thank you so much for your support.

Shelley

Excerpt – Snared by Saber

Book 1, Middlemarch Capture

The welcome party was in full swing when Saber walked into the function room flanked by his brothers. His nostrils flared, quivered at the scent of lust thick on the air. His stride faltered as the wave hit him, reminded him he was a healthy feline male who hadn’t had a woman for months.

Felix gave a soft whistle while Leo cursed under his breath.

“Everyone seems happy,” Joe said in patent understatement. “Even Laurence is smiling for a change.”

Music played and several females were dancing with employees. Laughter and excited chatter battled the music, and some of the tension lifted from Saber’s shoulders. Everyone looked happy. In fact, all the men they employed were talking or dancing with their guests. Doing their job, including Laurence, the brother of Saber’s dead fiancée, which marked a change.

Taking care to keep his breaths shallow Saber said in a low voice, “Go and check out the women on our list. Dance with them, speak with them and come to a decision. We need to cement our plans.”

As his brothers wandered off, Saber observed the partygoers. A flash of red caught his attention, and he turned to watch a woman progress to the bar. She wasn’t exceptionally beautiful like some of the other women, and was on the skinny side, yet something undefinable kept his gaze stitched in place. The red gown followed the lines of her body, its short length showcasing her legs and cupping her backside. Her footwear consisted of a series of crisscrossed black straps and heels that elevated her height. She chatted with the bar staff, shared a smile with the other women who sat at the bar and politely turned down a request to dance.

Interesting. He hadn’t noticed any other woman saying no. Most were here to enjoy themselves and interact with the men.

Saber stalked closer, his mind taking in the small details and matching them against his brothers’ tastes. Honey-blonde hair, swept into some complicated style that made a man think about messing it up. A slight, petite frame. Bright blue eyes the color of the cornflowers his mother used to grow swept over him, dismissed him without pause.

Saber felt his mouth drop open and snapped it shut. Her rejection rankled. Miffed, he took a step toward her before common sense reasserted itself.

He wanted mates for his brothers.

He wanted them settled.

Happy.

This was business, and his own physical needs weren’t paramount.

Saber changed direction and hit the far end of the bar. He signaled for a drink and turned to survey the room before his gaze tracked back to the woman. Another female joined Blondie. Tall and regal with ruthlessly short black hair, she was dressed in a deep-blue dress with a dramatic slit up one side.

His attention shifted back to Blondie—just in time to see Felix swoop. Minutes later, Leo joined them and started chatting with the friend.

Saber watched for a few seconds longer, batted back the surge of inappropriate resentment and decided everything was going well. He wasn’t needed. His brothers knew what to do, and for once they were following orders. He downed his drink and stopped to chat now and then, pulling out his rusty social skills to flirt and drag responding smiles from their female guests. Some of the women were stunning beauties, others not so much, yet their smiles and excitement, their enjoyment, made them all rate a second inspection.

He wove through the guests and employees, the lustful scents starting to get to him.

“Saber.” His sister Scarlett waved him over to where she was sitting by the terrace doors.

He dropped onto a seat beside her. “What are you doing here?”

“I wanted to check out the guests, get a feeling for them.” She delicately sniffed the air and grimaced. “Sucks to be a shifter sometimes.” Her gaze drilled into him. “I didn’t get to spend long on reception because you had me running background checks all day.” She leaned closer, lowering her voice a fraction. “One of the women in chalet twenty-five doesn’t have any family, although there was some scandal about her accusing her in-laws of murdering her husband. Nothing came of her allegations, and I haven’t been able to discover anything recent on the subject.”

“Pity we don’t have time to visit her residence and ask questions in person. I worry we’ll miss something important,” Saber said. “What about the other one?”

“She comes from a military background, although sources say she doesn’t spend her leave with her family. She seems closer to an aunt—her mother’s sister. If we grabbed her, the military might become involved. The woman with no family might make things easier.”

Saber tapped his fingers on his thigh. “True. Or maybe we should scoop up both women. If they both disappeared we’d have some breathing space, rather than leaving one behind who might cause problems and raise the alarm.”

“Good point,” Scarlett said. “We’re treading a delicate line with our capture plan.”

Low, throaty laughter came from a neighboring couple. It was sexy and suggestive and the insinuation transmitted with ease. The resort employee stood and held out his hand to the woman, a Dalcon local, Saber thought.

“Care for a walk along the beach?” the man asked.

The laughter was a purr of response this time as she accepted his hand and stood.

Saber shot a glance at his sister. “You shouldn’t be here, Scarlett. It’s not right.”

Scarlett reached over and rapped her fist against his skull. “Hello? Hello? Is anybody there?”

Saber ducked out of reach. “Cut it out.”

“Then stop treating me like a kid. I know what sex is, Saber.”

“Who told you about sex? Tell me so I can shoot their kneecaps.”

“Saber!”

Saber grinned, silently acknowledging his sister was an adult. She wasn’t a cute kid tagging after him anymore. “We’re going hunting for zylon once this winds down. You wanna come?”

“You’re on. Bet I catch more cute fluffies than you.”

“You can try,” Saber said.

Romantic cooing sounded outside and Scarlett grimaced. “Ugh, I’ve seen enough. I’ll see you later.” She stood and sashayed out the terrace doors. She paused to remove her shoes before stepping onto the sandy beach.

Saber watched his sister until she blended with the darkness. They had a couple of days to observe and decide. Maybe this capture scenario was bizarre and risky, but he was doing it for his family. Once they were settled the burden of responsibility would lessen, and he wouldn’t need to worry as much about his family’s future. He could relax.

Does Saber get his brothers settled with mates? Learn more here.

Excerpt – Interplanetary Love

Taking love to another planet

Music rippled through the Starlight nightclub—the latest addition to Earth mogul Tee’s string of on-planet entertainment ventures. The urbane male singer crooned of romance and enticed lovers to take to the dance floor and smooch.

“Let’s dance, babe.”

Carly Abercombie sighed and aimed an obligatory smile at her date, Graham. Her grimace must have done the trick because he grinned and seized her hand in response. She trotted after him on her ice-pick heels and let him draw her closer on the dance floor.

The subdued lighting gave her flashes of euphoric faces, naked flesh due to abbreviated dresses and lovers who were practically doing it in public. If this had been a workday, she could have busted several for indecent exposure, and she’d caught a faint whiff of designer drugs earlier. Probably the new Spanfly or one of the many variations out on the street. They busted one manufacturer and another popped up in their place like fast-growing fungi.

Her feet moved on automatic, marking time in the same place since the traffic on the floor had deepened and true dancing became impossible. Her new sparkly black shoes rubbed, her feet protesting even this slight motion.

Two hands clamping onto her butt cheeks jerked her mind from blisters and footbaths. She tensed, attempted to pull back.

“Stop playing hard to get,” Graham growled next to her ear. “You know you want it.”

“Want what?” she asked.

“My big cock,” he said, a wave of alcohol-laden breath wafting into her airspace.

Carly bit back a curse. Another idiot. She’d thought this one might be different, but the addition of whiskey had propelled him into stupid.

“No,” she said.

“Aw, baby. Don’t be like that. Wait until I’m thrusting inside you. I promise you’ll love it.”

She put a few inches between them and kept dancing. When would this song end? It seemed to play on a continuous loop with numerous verses and choruses about hot, sexy loving.

A young couple—obviously tourists from Venuree since they wore the distinctive silver arm jewelry—inserted their bodies into a gap at the rear of Graham.

A jolt from behind gave her date opportunity, and he reclaimed the precious inches of respectability she’d carved out for herself. Someone elbowed Carly, propelling her against Graham so they resembled the rest of the lovers on the dance floor.

Quick as a flash, Graham’s hand slid under the hem of her dress. His fingers smoothed over her ass cheek and slid between to grope her pussy. Shock held her in place for a prolonged second—enough for him to wriggle his fingers beneath her miniscule panties into her heat.

Carly shoved away, using force this time and created space surprisingly easy, given the crush. She managed to maintain a grip on her temper until the creep smirked and made a show of licking his fingers. Rage took control and she kneed him square in the balls.

Around them couples stopped moving, slithering away so they didn’t become involved in the unfolding drama. Carly stood, weight evenly distributed, in case he decided to retaliate. He didn’t. He writhed on the shiny black floor, his hands cupped protectively over his groin.

“You crazy bitch. What did you do that for?”

Whispers floated around her, gossip and a few feminine titters, but the public amusement didn’t put a dent in her acute satisfaction. She glared at yet another Earth dud. That would teach him to grope her on the dance floor.

Her latest date.

Another failure.

“Don’t think he’ll try that again,” her friend Samuel said with a pained expression on his tanned face. Dapper in a black shirt and tight black trousers, his hair slicked back to reveal his high cheekbones and intelligent face, he remained a respectable distance, way out of kicking range with his date angled slightly in front of him. “What did he do?”

Carly shifted from foot to foot and resisted the urge to tug her bodice up and her hemline down. She wasn’t used to dressing up, but for tonight’s celebratory dinner, she’d made an effort. A figure-hugging black dress that displayed lots of skin clung to her curves. Her feet were crammed in heels high enough to make her feel like a giraffe, and her brown hair was streaked with neon pink and arranged artfully on top of her head.

“He shoved his fingers inside my panties,” Carly snapped. “Nobody does that without my permission.”

“You were asking for it,” her date snapped, his tone vicious because she’d made him look foolish. He’d climbed to his feet while she was talking to Samuel, but he too, remained carefully out of range, lurking on the edge of the dance floor.

Disbelief raised Carly’s eyebrows. “So it’s all right for me to play with your dangly bits in a public place?” She shot him a look of disgust. Aside from the fact the man needed the name of a good dentist, he’d been passable until he’d started drinking straight shots of whiskey. “Forget I said that. Of course you’d get off on being groped in public.” She swiveled on her giraffe-shoes and stalked off, leaving Mr. Octopus to do his worst on the dance floor.

Silence fell as she approached her table. Her fellow cops, who were mainly men, wore identical expressions to Samuel. Pained and wary.

“Shit,” Carly snapped. “I only do that to men who grope me in the middle of the dance floor. Coworkers are safe unless they try to cop a feel.”

“Good to hear,” her partner, Bart, drawled. He’d tamed his wavy hair in a stubby tail, highlighting the stark planes of his face while his muscular form wore a gray suit with sexy ease. “We’re cops, but we don’t feel.”

His laconic remark broke the silence and everyone started talking at once.

“You okay?” Bart’s wife whispered, her blue eyes full of compassion. Although the woman’s intentions were good, Carly didn’t want sympathy.

“I’m fine. Why wouldn’t I be?” Hellfire. She winced at her behavior toward a woman who was trying to help. But Carly knew if she started to cry, she wouldn’t stop. She snapped her fingers at a passing waiter. “Whiskey.” Perhaps she’d drown her sorrows. The evening was young, and she had to stay for another hour at least for this work celebration.

It was gonna be a long night.

How does Carly get out of her dating funk? Learn more here.

About Shelley

USA Today bestselling author Shelley Munro lives in Auckland, the City of Sails, with her husband and a cheeky Jack Russell/mystery breed puppy.

Typical New Zealanders, Shelley and her husband left home for their big OE soon after they married (translation of New Zealand speak – big overseas experience). A twelve-month long adventure lengthened to six years of roaming the world. Enduring memories include being almost sat on by a mountain gorilla in Rwanda, lazing on white sandy beaches in India, whale watching in Alaska, searching for leprechauns in Ireland, and dealing with ghosts in an English pub.

While travel is still a big attraction, these days Shelley is most likely found in front of her computer following another love – that of writing stories of contemporary and paranormal romance and adventure. Other interests include watching rugby (strictly for research purposes), cycling, baking bread and curling up with an enjoyable book.

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Other Books by Shelley

Paranormal

Sea of Change

Price of Love

Lynx to the Pharaoh

Curse of Brandon Lupinus

Fiona’s Mates

Dragon Investigators

Blue Moon Dragon

Blood Moon Dragon

Middlemarch Capture

Snared by Saber

Favored by Felix

Lost with Leo

Spellbound with Sly

Bundle

Middlemarch Capture

Middlemarch Shifters

My Scarlet Woman

My Younger Lover

My Peeping Tom

My Assassin

My Estranged Lover

My Feline Protector

My Determined Suitor

My Cat Burglar

My Stray Cat

My Second Chance

My Plan B

My Cat Nap

My Romantic Tangle

My Blue Lady

My Twin Trouble

Bundle

Middlemarch Shifters 1 – 3

Middlemarch Shifters 4 - 6

House of the Cat series

Sampled & Seduced

Captured & Seduced

Claimed & Seduced

Merry & Seduced

Stranded & Seduced

Seized & Seduced

Hunted & Seduced

Festive & Seduced

Bundle

House of the Cat

Contemporary

Wild Child

Cat Burglar in Training

One Night of Misbehavior

Blindside

Fringe Benefits

Lovers at Last

Ain’t Misbehaving

Playing to Win

Summer Encounter

Reformed Bad Girl

Stranger Things Happen

Fancy Free

Protection

Romp

Buzz

Friendship Chronicles

Secret Lovers

Reunited Lovers

Clandestine Lovers

Part-Time Lovers

Enemy Lovers

Military Men

Innocent Next Door

Soldiers with Benefits

Safeguarding Sorrel

Bundle

Military Men

Sci-fi/Futuristic

Interplanetary Love

Sex Idol

Alien Encounter series

Janaya

Hinekiri

Alexandre

Bundle

Alien Encounter

Gay Romance

No Defense

Best Man

Last Wish

Curse Across Time

Eye on the Ball

Fallen Idol

Lone Wolf

Seeking Kokopelli

Historical

The Spurned Viscountess

Evening Tryst

Unforgettable

Mistress of Merrivale

Copyright Page

Betrayed & Seduced

Copyright © 2018 Shelley Munro

ISBN: 978-0-473-43672-8

Cover: The Killion Group

This book is a work of fiction. The names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the writer’s imagination or have been used fictitiously and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, actual events, locales or organizations is entirely coincidental.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any manner whatsoever without the prior written permission from the author except in the case of brief quotation embodied in critical articles and reviews.

Shelley Munro