UNITY AND THE USURPER

A SCIFI ALIEN ROMANCE (ALIEN ABDUCTION BOOK 21)

HONEY PHILLIPS

Copyright © 2024 by Honey Phillips

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the author.

Disclaimer

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or people, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

Cover by Maria Spada Book Cover Design

Edited by Lindsay York at LY Publishing Services

Created with Vellum

CONTENTS

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Epilogue

Author’s Note

Other Titles

About the Author

CHAPTER ONE

Cronan sat brooding on the throne. His throne now, even though he’d never wanted it. He simply hadn’t been able to stomach Ulmat’s cruelty and his ill treatment of the people of Farlain any longer. What had started as an attempt to force Ulmat to see reason had turned into a short, brutal battle. And now Ulmat was dead and he had been crowned king in his place.

“It’s only logical. You are King Ulmat’s son,” Barthar, his second-in-command, insisted.

“His illegitimate son. He certainly never acknowledged me.”

It was hard to keep the bitterness out of his voice, not for himself so much but as for what Ulmat had done to his mother, Lauriel. Ulmat had seen seducing a young, innocent virgin as a challenge but he’d rapidly grown tired of Lauriel’s gentle ways and discarded her. If that had been all, it would have been bad enough, but in addition to casting her aside he’d made the entire court believe that she was a wanton slut. His aspersions had been echoed by a jealous Queen Astra, and Lauriel had returned to their small country estate in disgrace.

His mother had never really gotten over what had happened to her. She’d loved him, despite his parentage, but that love hadn’t been enough. She just gradually faded away, dying not long after his sixteenth birthday. At which point Magda, their housekeeper, and Porthan, their weapons master, had sat him down and told him who his father really was. The truth had not been easy to accept, or to come to terms with. He had hated Ulmat ever since.

A week after that announcement, he rode to the city and joined the King’s Guards. He was young, but he was fast, strong, and exceptionally well-trained. He rose rapidly through the ranks, acquiring a loyal group of followers and companions along the way. Barthar was one of them. A big scarred warrior, he’d provoked Cronan into an attack two days after he’d joined the Guards. Barthar had won, but only barely, and Cronan had won first his respect, and then his undying loyalty.

“A technicality,” Barthar said impatiently. “You are the last existing member of the royal line.”

Ulmat had never fathered another child, legitimate or illegitimate, but it still hadn’t been enough for him to formally acknowledge Cronan, even after most of the court was aware of his parentage. On the few occasions when Cronan’s duties brought him in to direct contact with the king, he’d treated him with the same condescending petulance as he did the rest of the guards

“It will give the people hope,” Barthar added, and in the end, that had been the reason that swayed him.

The throne room was a huge stone-walled space with a high beamed ceiling, the walls hung with dented shields and bloodstained weapons, a reminder of Farlain’s warrior past—not that Ulmat had ever handled a sword in battle, or even in combat despite his penchant for weaponry and barbaric displays. The room was a throwback to a time long before Farlain had become part of the Kaisarian Empire. The previous kings had not eschewed the resulting technological advances completely, but they were mostly hidden and used only by the elite. One of his many goals was to spread those advances to a wider share of the population.

The thought of the amount of work needed made him weary, far wearier than a day’s hard training and a night’s hard carousing had ever done. Then again, it had been several years since he’d had time for such indulgences. Ironically, in the three days since he’d assumed the throne no less than five ladies of the court had approached him to suggest a discreet—or not so discreet—liaison. He was under no illusions as to their motives, but he’d almost been tempted. It had been a long time and he was still a male as well as a king, but he was also well aware of the political ramifications involved and he’d turned them all down politely. Or not so politely in the case of the female who’d put her hand directly on his codix under the banquet table the previous night.

He’d placed one of his daggers very gently against her little finger.

“Remove your hand or I will remove your finger.”

She’d obeyed, her face going pale with fear, but her pallor had soon been replaced with a flush of annoyance. He hadn’t bothered to keep his voice down and more than one of their neighbors had given her an amused look. He was fully aware that he’d made an enemy, and one who was not without influence, but he was not some weak stripling to be led around by his codix and the sooner the ladies of the court recognized that, the better.

The banquet itself had been an annoyance, another of Barthar’s suggestions about returning to normalcy as quickly as possible. Robat had seconded the notion. An annoying little male who had been Ulmat’s steward, Robat hadn’t hesitated to assure him of his complete loyalty to the new regime. Cronan neither liked nor trusted him, but he had a great deal of knowledge about running the royal household and sufficient diplomatic skills to last through both of the previous kings’ reigns.

“Don’t dismiss him,” Barthar advised. “He’s good at his job and he will be useful until you can train someone else.”

Cronan had nodded his reluctant agreement and summoned Robat.

“Yes, Your Majesty?”

Robat stood by the door, hands clasped neatly before him, his head respectfully bowed.

“You are to continue in your present position,” Cronan informed him. “But be aware that I will have no tolerance for any sign of disloyalty.”

“Of course, Your Majesty.”

“I intend to hold a banquet.”

“An excellent idea, Your Majesty. May I suggest the evening of the full moon—”

“Tonight.”

A flicker of what might have been annoyance crossed Robat’s features.

“Tonight?”

“Yes. Inform all of the nobles who are still in residence in the palace that their attendance is mandatory. As well as any who are still in town,” he added. Most of the nobles kept townhouses, but many of them had fled the city during the battle. Ulmat had chosen his favorites for their ability to flatter and amuse him, not for their bravery or their loyalty. “I want good food and good wine, but none of the foolishness Ulmat enjoyed.”

He’d been on guard one night when the cook had served a huge roasted carpan that was cut open to let a horde of tiny sparkling nympals fly free—or at least that had been the plan. A few of the nympals escaped, squeaking as they tried to fly away, but most of the others were dead or dying, crawling out onto the table and collapsing onto the other food. It had been an appalling display, and Ulmat had been livid that his grand idea had not been executed properly.

“Yes, sire.”

Robat bowed his head and left. He had in fact arranged everything perfectly, despite the short timeline. The dining hall had been scrubbed and all traces of battle removed except for some gouges in the stonework that would require a mason. The food and wine were excellent but not extravagant, just as he’d requested, and a surprising number of nobles were in attendance.

Most of them were overly deferential, just as they had been with Ulmat, but he didn’t trust their obsequious behavior. If a counter attack came, it would be from among this group, although it was more likely to be a political attack than a straightforward battle. He would have to take precautions.

He sighed and rubbed his eyes. The banquet had been followed by more meetings. He’d barely slept for the past three days. Perhaps tonight…

A discreet cough at his elbow interrupted his thoughts. His hand went to his dagger before he realized Robat had joined him, his head meekly bowed.

“Your Majesty. A moment of your time, if you please?”

“What is it?”

“One of the slaves is being somewhat… difficult, sire,” Robat said, his voice carefully neutral.

Slaves? Slavery was not forbidden in the Kaisarian Empire, but it had never played a role in Farlain society. He’d thought he’d known the extent of Ulmat’s depravity, but this was a new low.

“What’s the problem with this particular slave?”

Robat pursed his lips.

“She is a female, Your Majesty. A primitive female. I believe the former king acquired her as a… novelty, but he did not find her behavior… satisfactory.”

A female? Even worse. His grip on his dagger tightened.

“Where is she?”

“King Ulmat had her, err, confined to the dungeons until she was willing to comply. It was not successful prior to the… change in leadership.”

Fuck. One more problem he didn’t need. He sighed and rose to his feet anyway.

“Take me to her.”

Something he couldn’t read flashed across Robat’s face before it assumed its usual bland expression.

“Yes, sire.”

Robat led the way down beneath the castle. The passageway became narrower as they descended, the walls dripping with moisture as the smell of mold and decay grew stronger. He’d known that the castle contained dungeons, of course—he’d even heard of Ulmat condemning suspected opponents to them—but confining a female in this wretched place?

He heard her before he saw her, a hoarse voice yelling insults and demands. Robat came to a halt outside a small stone cell, and the occupant immediately stopped shouting, peering at him suspiciously from behind a tangled curtain of long, dark hair.

He peered back. She was huddled in one corner with her knees drawn up to her chest and her arms wrapped around them. The once white slave gown she was wearing was torn and dirty, revealing most of her unusually pale skin, also covered with dirt.

“Who the hell are you?” she demanded, lifting her chin defiantly even though her voice shook.

The light was dim down in the dungeons, but he could make out her features well enough. Her eyes didn’t glow the way Farlain eyes would glow, but they were large and blue, surrounded by thick, dark lashes. Dirt smudged her face but she had a small straight nose, round cheeks, and full pink lips.

His gaze snagged on her mouth for a second when she licked her lips nervously, but he forced himself to continue his assessment. She was young but not in the first flush of youth, and her body was small but unexpectedly lush beneath the brief gown. Even her bare feet were small and curvy, her toes curling slightly on the filthy stone floor.

“I am Cronan.” When she only gave him a blank stare, he added reluctantly, “I am the new King of Farlain.”

“What happened to the old one?”

“He no longer walks this earth.”

“Good. I hope the bastard died slowly and painfully.” She pushed herself to her feet, even though her legs trembled, and approached the bars. “Are you going to let me out of here, or are you as bad as he was?”

CHAPTER TWO

Unity had assumed that the size of the huge male standing outside her cell was exaggerated by the dim light and cramped space, but as she approached the bars she realized she was wrong. He was even more enormous than she’d thought. Her head barely reached his chest—his extremely well-muscled chest, all of which was clearly visible since the only thing he was wearing on his upper body was some kind of studded leather shoulder armor. His shoulders were wide enough to block out most of the passageway behind him.

From what she’d seen so far, these aliens had skin tones ranging from a pale gold to a deep bronze, all with an almost metallic gleam, and his was a rich gold. His short, close-cut hair was a darker shade of gold and even his eyes were gold, glowing slightly in the dim light. He looked far more like a king than the previous one—albeit a barbaric warrior king.

She shuddered at the memory of the previous king with his soft, cruel hands and his sick demands. The dungeon had been a better alternative than his bedroom, but that didn’t mean she wanted to stay here forever.

“Well?” she demanded. “Are you going to let me out?”

“Yes.” Despite his immediate agreement, he didn’t reach for the cell door, frowning at her thoughtfully. “The question is what am I going to do with you then.”

“Send me h-home. Back to Earth.”

Dammit. Her voice sounded shaky rather than demanding.

“And where is this Earth of yours?”

Oh. It hadn’t even occurred to her until that moment that he might not know.

“Don’t you have some kind of star chart or something?”

“There are such things,” he agreed. “But although Farlain is part of the Empire, very few of us leave this planet. Even if one were familiar with those charts, they would be useless without a point of reference.”

Damn. Damn, damn, damn. She fought against the rising tide of panic and focused on her anger instead. She wasn’t going to get anywhere by pleading.

“That’s not my fault. I didn’t ask to be abducted.”

“No. What is your species called?”

“We’re humans.”

He shook his head.

“I’m not familiar with the term. And I cannot return what is not mine to return,” he said.

“Fine. Just set me free. I’ll figure something out.”

Not that she had any idea what to do, but it would have to be an improvement on her current situation. To her dismay, his frown only increased.

“You have no status in our society. Someone would be sure to claim such a… tempting prize.”

His eyes flicked down over her body for the briefest second and she was painfully aware of how little the gown concealed, even before it had been torn. It consisted of little more than two short pieces of thin white cloth, joined at a single point on each shoulder and either side of her waist.

In addition, the bastard former king had ripped the neckline down far enough to expose her right breast almost to her nipple before she kneed him, hoping these aliens had balls in the same place as human males. They did. He’d given a very satisfactory groan as he bent over clutching himself. The blow he’d dealt her after he straightened was not as satisfactory but she’d be damned if she was going to go down without a fight.

He’d grabbed her again, ordering her to obey him, and she’d gone for his face with her nails. They weren’t that long but they were long enough to draw blood and cause some damage. That was when he’d decided to send her off to the dungeons— “to learn respect.” When she told him she would never respect someone who thought he could own another person he struck her again, hard enough to knock her out that time.

She’d regained consciousness in this cell and had been here ever since, wondering how the hell her perfectly normal life had turned into something out of a science fiction movie. She’d been sitting in her living room, mindlessly watching an old movie and thanking God that tax season was over when an alien appeared in the corner of the room—the classic grey-skinned large-eyed alien that people joked about. Only she’d been terrified rather than amused, especially since he was tall and thin rather than some cute little cartoon figure.

A flash of light blinded her as he came towards her and the next thing she knew she was waking up stiff and groggy to find herself dressed in her current minimal outfit and strapped to some kind of stretcher. The former king had been leering down at her, and even though he was far more human-looking than the tall grey alien, he was also clearly not human. Like her captor he was tall and thin, but his skin was a metallic coppery shade and his eyes had a weird reddish glow.

“Excellent. A little older than I would have preferred but suitable enough. Has she been trained?”

She was quite sure he wasn’t speaking English, but she could understand him perfectly.

The grey alien shrugged.

“Not my department, King Ulmat. I’m only in charge of procurement. But if you don’t want her, I have plenty of other buyers—”

“No, no. I want her. Training her may even prove entertaining.” His petulant expression was more suited to a spoiled toddler than a king. “The queen just doesn’t understand my needs.”

He reached down and pinched her breast cruelly, smiling happily when she only managed a pained grunt in response. She tried to lift her hand to push him away but it only fluttered weakly and his smile broadened.

“Delightful.”

“The stasis will wear off,” the grey alien warned him but the king waved his hand dismissively.

“A female who won’t react to my… attentions has no appeal for me. Now, we have business to discuss. These specialized orders are profitable, but not scalable. I was thinking…”

The two males walked away out of earshot, leaving her trying desperately to move. Panic filled her but she refused to acknowledge it—screaming and crying hysterically wouldn’t help anyone. She kept trying to raise her arms but the sensation never returned to her limbs, and eventually she drifted off into unconsciousness again. The next time she woke it was to a vicious headache and the awareness that the restraints had been removed.

Even better, when she instinctively clenched her fist, it formed a tight little ball. She sat up, wincing as pain jolted through her head, and found the king sprawled in a chair, watching her impatiently. The naked king. Without the elaborate robes he was an unappealing combination of thin and flabby, but it didn’t diminish his arrogance.

“Finally. I dislike waiting. You may service me.”

He waved at his lap but his dick was either completely limp or ridiculously small, hidden beneath the loose skin of his stomach.

“I will do no such thing,” she hissed, glad that her voice had returned as well. “I demand you return me to Earth immediately.”

“You are in no position to demand anything. I might be persuaded to grant you certain… favors if you please me, but they certainly won’t include sending you back to your primitive planet. You should be grateful that I’ve removed you from it.”

“Primitive?”

Considering that the room they were in could have come straight from a medieval castle, complete with thick stone walls and piles of furs on the bed, the irony would have made her laugh if she hadn’t been so angry.

“Farlain is far superior to your planet.”

He gave her an arrogant look and gestured again, this time at the floor in front of him. She started edging towards the door instead and his expression shifted to annoyed.

“It seems you need to be taught a lesson in respect and obedience, female.”

“I don’t need anything from you.”

She whirled around and dashed for the door. Unfortunately, despite his apparent lack of muscle tone, he caught her before she reached it, cold fingers clamping down painfully on her wrist as he started to tear off her dress. At which point she’d tried to knee him in the balls and ended up in the dungeons.

Now the huge male who’d replaced the king was telling her that someone else could claim her just as the previous king had done.

“And you call my planet primitive,” she said bitterly. “At least no one can just take you there.”

“Except someone did,” he pointed out, and she glared at him.

“But he wasn’t human.”

“Indeed. And no human male ever takes a human female against her will?”

She wanted to tell him no, but her innate honesty wouldn’t let her.

“It would be against the law,” she said primly.

“As was taking you, but the fact remains that you were taken and you have very few alternatives.”

“If I might make a suggestion, Your Majesty?”

The smaller male who’d accompanied the king finally spoke, his voice smooth and obsequious, but she didn’t miss his sly glance at Cronan.

“Yes, what is it?”

“I believe the wisest course of action would be for you to claim the female for yourself.”

CHAPTER THREE

Yes.

Cronan’s first instinctive response to Robat’s suggestion was approval. He found the thought of claiming this little female far too enticing. The last thing he needed was another responsibility and she clearly needed help.

“Claiming her would place her under your protection,” Robat said smoothly. “It could also serve as a deterrent for the more… eager ladies of the court, even if you do not actually indulge.”

“Damn right you’re not going to indulge,” the female said furiously, her gaze darting back and forth between them. “I don’t intend to be claimed by anyone.”

Her defiance only made her more appealing, and Robat had made two excellent points. He wondered briefly why the steward was so interested, then pushed the thought aside. Whatever his motives, he couldn’t argue with the logic.

She really wouldn’t cause him much trouble, he decided. He could keep her in his quarters until he could make other arrangements. She would be far more comfortable there, and he could keep her safe from predatory males.

“Would you not prefer to be out of this cell?” he asked. “To be clean and well fed? To be clothed more appropriately?”

“What’s it going to cost me?”

She crossed her arms over her chest and glared at him suspiciously. Unfortunately, the posture brought her already large breasts into even greater prominence and the torn gown showed a teasing glimpse of a pretty pink nipple. His codix flexed as he automatically stepped in front of Robat, blocking the steward’s view of the enticing sight.

“I’m not asking for payment. Especially not the kind you seem to be offering.”

He gestured at her chest. Still frowning she followed his gaze, and then an enchanting tide of pink flooded her face as she quickly pulled the top of the torn gown together.

“I’m not offering you anything.”

“And I’m not asking for anything.” He pressed the electronic lock that opened the cell and the door slid aside. Despite the primitive appearance of the dungeons, various subtle forms of technology had been added over the years. “Do you wish to leave the dungeons or not?”

Her suspicious gaze took in the corridor beyond the cell—as damp and unpleasant as the cell itself—and then she sighed.

“Yes.”

He held out his hand and waited. After a long moment she reluctantly placed her small hand in his and he couldn’t completely suppress a brief flare of satisfaction. Her skin was as pale as the rest of her—a startling contrast to the rich sheen of his own skin—and her fingers were icy. He wanted to pull her closer, to warm her, but he didn’t think she would appreciate the help.

Maintaining his grip on her hand, he turned to lead the way out of the dungeons. She stumbled, then swore, wincing as she took another step. He remembered that her feet were bare and his instincts overruled his caution. He lifted her into his arms, ignoring Robat’s raised eyebrow.

She immediately squawked and started to struggle, although her ineffectual efforts only served to rub that far too enticing body against his. He suppressed a groan as his codix responded and tightened his grip.

“Stop that. I’m simply preventing you from causing more damage to yourself.”

“You wouldn’t need to if you gave me a pair of shoes,” she muttered, but she subsided.

“Unfortunately, they appear to be in short supply at this exact moment,” he said dryly, and although she didn’t respond, the corners of her mouth tipped up slightly.

There was no further conversation as he carried her to his new quarters but that only made him more aware of the female in his arms. Her body was soft and lush, warming as he held her close, and beneath the dirt, he caught a hint of a sweet, enticing fragrance. By the time he reached his rooms, his codix was painfully erect.

Robat hurried to open the doors for him, but as soon as Cronan entered he dismissed the steward.

“I will send for you later.”

“Yes, sire. Should I arrange for clothing for the female, sire?”

“Yes, if you can find something in her size.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” She was glaring at him again, although he didn’t understand why. “Are all your females skinny?”

Most of them did not have her delightful curves but that wasn’t what he’d meant.

“They vary in size, as do our males, but you are shorter than most adult females.”

“I am sure I can arrange for something,” Robat said, then bowed and left, leaving him alone with his female for the first time.

She seemed to realize that as well, her eyes widening as a slight tremor shook her small body.

“You can put me down now.”

Although she tried to sound demanding, there was a faint tremor in her voice as well. He obeyed silently, immediately missing the feel of that soft body against his. She cleared her throat and took a few steps back, looking around the room and regaining her composure.

“These are the king’s quarters?”

“Yes.”

He hadn’t been enthusiastic about taking them over, but Barthar had insisted and it seemed silly to balk at occupying Ulmat’s rooms when he was occupying his throne.

“They’re not what I expected.”

He’d been surprised as well. Unlike the traditional appearance Ulmat had maintained in the rest of the castle, his rooms had every modern luxury from voice-controlled lighting to temperature control. The fabrics were rich and expensive, if somewhat gaudy, and the room had obviously been intended to display Ulmat’s wealth and power to a select few.

“This isn’t where he brought me,” she added, frowning. “Are there other rooms?”

“Of course. A bedroom, a bathing room, a small dining area, and a study.”

Not that Ulmat appeared to have used the latter, but then he’d never been known for scholarship. Or wisdom, he thought grimly.

She was still wandering around the room, running her fingers lightly over the fabrics as she examined the furniture, but she paused in front of the wide glass doors that led out onto a sheltered balcony lush with plants.

“What happened to the queen? I know he mentioned one.”

He sighed.

“She has been exiled to her family estates.”

Another source of contention amongst his advisors. The majority of them thought she should be eliminated in order to prevent someone using her as a figurehead for rebellion, but he couldn’t bring himself to order the execution of a female, even one as cruel as Astra.

“Do you trust her?”

“Not particularly. But I don’t really expect a female to lead a rebellion.”

She turned back to stare at him incredulously.

“Why not? Haven’t you ever heard that the female is deadlier than the male?”

“No, although I don’t disagree with the statement. I just don’t expect Astra to become a war leader. She’s far too concerned with her own comfort.”

She didn’t look convinced, but she shrugged.

“If you say so.”

“I do—” He suddenly realized he didn’t even know his female’s name. “What is your name?”

“Unity. Unity Harper.”

“Unity,” he repeated, savoring the taste of it. “The word translates as… togetherness. Is that correct?”

“Yes.” She sighed. “My mother hoped my birth would bring her and my father closer. Instead, my father left soon after I was born. My mother never got over it, never remarried or dated or anything.”

“My father betrayed my mother as well. Ulmat was my father,” he added reluctantly.

She frowned at him, then shook her head.

“I don’t see a resemblance.”

“Thankfully I take after his father—my grandfather, Alric. He was a good king but he died when Ulmat was still quite young. Perhaps he would have been a better king if he’d had longer to learn from my grandfather.”

“Or maybe he was just an asshole to begin with. Hell, he probably killed Alric off so he could take the throne.”

The possibility had never occurred to him before, but perhaps even he had underestimated his father’s depravity.

“Can I go outside?” she added, changing the subject as she cast a longing look through the balcony doors again.

“It might be best if you were suitably clothed first.”

She had forgotten to hold her gown together and he caught another glimpse of that plump, pink nipple, so different from the small, flat nipple of a Farlain female. Different but extremely enticing. His codix jerked and he quickly looked away.

“Would you like to use the bathing room now?”

“All right.”

Her cheeks had turned pink again as she clasped her gown together, but she followed him into the enormous bedroom, then stopped dead at the sight of the bed.

“Now that’s just ridiculous.”

He agreed. The deep cushioned mattress was large enough for six people—and had been occupied by as many if the rumors were to be believed—and covered with layers of silks and furs. Tall, elaborately carved pillars supported the velvet canopy that was draped across the entire bed. It was far more opulent and decadent than anything he would have chosen, but it had been comfortable enough on the rare occasions he’d been able to get a few minutes’ sleep.

The doors to the bathing room were on the far side of the room and he opened them for her, enjoying the way her eyes widened again, this time with pleasure.

“It’s still ridiculous, but wow.”

One side of the room had been decorated to resemble a natural grotto, complete with a waterfall trickling down a rock wall into the gently steaming bathing pool. Small sweet-smelling plants were tucked amongst the rocks. The other side of the room contained a shower—also large enough for six—along with wash basins and mirrors and sanitary facilities in gleaming white marble.

“Not exactly like the rest of the castle, is it?” she added.

“No. Ulmat preferred to keep most modern technology to himself even though Alric had started bringing those advances to the rest of the populace.”

“I told you he was a bastard.” She trailed her fingers through the water in the bathing pool and sighed. “But a bastard with good taste in bathrooms.”

“I will leave you to cleanse yourself.” He should have stopped there, but his mouth betrayed him. “Unless you would like my assistance?”

CHAPTER FOUR

Abrief vision of Cronan’s large muscular body joining her in the bath flashed through Unity’s mind and her traitorous body responded to the image. She’d never really been attracted to big men, but there had been something undeniably appealing about how easily he had carried her to his rooms, as if she weighed no more than a feather. Not to mention the feel of all that rock hard muscle against her or the fact that he smelled wonderful, like cinnamon and leather.

She blushed and turned away, hoping he hadn’t noticed the way her nipples had tightened beneath the thin gown.

“I can manage just fine on my own, thank you.”

Her voice sounded far more breathless than she would have preferred.

“Of course,” he said stiffly, almost as if he were embarrassed as well. “I will make sure you are not disturbed.”

He left, closing the doors behind him. She checked the doors, looking for some kind of lock, but there was nothing of the kind. Damn.

“I suppose I’ll just have to trust him,” she muttered to herself.

Oddly enough, she actually did—at least a little. He’d gotten her out of that wretched cell and he hadn’t made any attempt to molest her. So far. Then again, he also hadn’t freed her—although if he was telling the truth, his reasons made sense.

She cast another look at the closed door, then slipped out of the grimy white gown and walked down the steps into the bathing pool, sighing with pleasure as the hot water surrounded her, relieving the last of the chill from her cell. The water was actually up to her neck with her feet flat on the bottom, but there were a variety of ledges at various heights worked into the walls. She dunked her head under the water, then found one that let her sit with the water just above her breasts.

Now what?

If she believed Cronan and, somewhat to her surprise, she did, returning to Earth was not in the cards, certainly not in the near future and perhaps never. A tear trickled down her cheek and she swiped at it impatiently. Her mother had cried a lot but Unity had quickly figured out that crying didn’t change anything. It certainly hadn’t made her mother feel any better. While she’d done her best to be a good mother, that underlying current of sadness had always been there.

The fact that Unity bore a strong resemblance to her father probably didn’t help. Not that she’d ever met him, but her mother insisted on keeping his photo by her bed. When her mother died in a solo car crash that she still prayed was accidental, she had given in to a foolish impulse and had the picture buried with her.

I got used to being alone on Earth. I can get used to being alone here, she thought as she swiped at another tear.

Perhaps because of what had happened to her mother, she’d always shied away from serious relationships. Even most of her friends were more casual acquaintances rather than long-lasting friendships. Would any of them even notice she was gone?

Of course they will. Stop being morbid, she ordered herself. Right now the most important thing was figuring out how she was going to survive—without being dependent on some king, no matter how attractive she found him. I wonder if they have accountants here.

She had a sudden vision of herself in a long robe, weighing out gold coins like some medieval money lender. The image made her smile and she went looking for some soap in a better frame of mind, determined to make the best of her situation.

The search took a while but she eventually found an artificial flower half-concealed amongst the real ones that emitted a stream of sweet-smelling liquid. She washed her hair and scrubbed herself head to foot, wincing when she washed her face and touched the bruises Ulmat had left when he hit her. Bastard. At least they were fading now.

The towels were also concealed in a realistic-looking boulder but they were fluffy and warm and enormous. She dried off and did her best to finger comb her hair, letting it fall over her cheek to conceal the bruises. Then she took a deep breath, wrapped a dry towel around her, and peeped cautiously around the edge of the door. The huge bedroom was empty and she padded quietly across it towards the living room. The bedroom also opened onto a balcony and she cast it a wistful glance but decided clothes came first.

As she approached the living room, she heard voices and stopped to listen.

“Dangerous? That tiny little thing?”

No one had ever called her tiny before, and even a week in the dungeons had done very little to reduce her curves, but as much as she appreciated the compliment, she wasn’t quite as sanguine about Cronan discounting her so easily.

“Dangerous,” a deep, growly voice said firmly. “My former captain is mated to one, and I know.”

Another human? She peeped eagerly through the opening between the living room doors and saw Cronan talking to a… gargoyle? There was no other way to describe him—he was huge and grey-skinned, with pointed ears and a massive set of wings.

She didn’t think she’d made any noise but Cronan immediately looked over at her. His gaze lingered for a moment on her bare shoulders, the towel covering the rest of her body down to her ankles. He picked up a woven throw from a nearby chair and came to join her, arranging it around her shoulders. She really shouldn’t like the brush of his fingers against her bare skin so much, or the fact that he remained at her side, his leather and cinnamon scent wrapping around her just as the throw had done.

“I suppose you’d better join us since this concerns you,” he said, smiling down at her. “This is Grabon. He is both a medic and one of my most trusted captains.”

“For my sins. I wasn’t looking for a rebellion to join.” The big male eyed her suspiciously from bright green catlike eyes. “Human.”

She glared at him.

“My name is Unity, not human.”

He shrugged a massive shoulder, but one corner of his mouth rose.

“You see?” he said to Cronan. “They are not afraid, even when confronted by a male twice their size. That’s what makes them dangerous.”

She decided to take that as a compliment, even though she had most definitely been scared ever since the grey alien appeared in her living room.

“You said there’s another human woman here?” she asked eagerly.

“Not here, but I know of at least three. One who is mated to my former captain and is currently traveling with him. One who is mated to Prince Rastrath and who resides on Sherae, and one who is consort to Emperor Karthajin. Were you not aware of that at least?” Grabon asked, but Cronan shook his head.

“Ulmat restricted offworld communication. Most Farlain have very little idea of what occurs elsewhere in the Empire. You saw how much he limited access to the spaceport. When Grabon decided to explore, one of Ulmat’s guards tried to arrest him,” Cronan told her.

“Unsuccessfully.” Grabon bared a set of very white, very sharp teeth in what she would not have called a smile. “That encounter is what led me to Cronan and the rebellion.”

She had a ton of questions, but she focused on the most important one.

“You’re telling me that none of those women are here on this planet, right? And that none of them were able to return to Earth?”

Grabon’s hard face softened a fraction.

“Contact with a pre-spaceflight planet is forbidden.”

“That didn’t stop the male who took me.”

“No, although the Emperor is trying to prevent it. Humans have protected status.”

“Like we’re some kind of endangered animal?” she asked bitterly. “Does it actually make a difference?”

Grabon hesitated, looking over at Cronan.

“To an extent. But the more dangerous males are the ones most likely to ignore it.”

So Cronan was right—she did need protection. She also found it easy to believe he could provide it. Not just because of his size and build, but because of an indefinable air of command that surrounded him. Even dressed in the simple leather shoulder armor and pants, he had a far more powerful presence than Ulmat had had in his elaborate robes.

“I could take you to one of the other females when I leave,” Grabon added. An odd growling sound came from Cronan, and the gargoyle shot him a look, then shook his head. “But that will not be in the near future. We were just discussing a distress call we received from the Western Isles.”

“With no additional word since then,” Cronan said thoughtfully. “Lord Dekell was one of Ulmat’s most trusted nobles. He may have changed his mind about requesting assistance after learning of Ulmat’s death, but I have no intention of letting him remain there as my representative without investigation.”

“He could also have been a victim of whatever caused him to make the call in the first place. Or it could just be the composition of the islands interfering with the device.” Grabon sighed. “It would take a full week for a ship to reach the main port. I can make the flight in a single day, go in quietly, and then assess the situation.”

“Quietly?” Cronan raised an eyebrow. “The Elvar are highly unlikely to mistake you for one of their own.”

“The Elvar?” she asked, and both males looked at her.

“The people of the Western Isles. They are also winged.”

“But very different. Small and gentle.” The big gargoyle sighed again. “Which makes me wonder what incurred the original distress call. I will try to return as quickly as possible.”

“Very well. Go see Barthar and get your own communication device. Hopefully you will have better luck with the signal.”

“And Dekell?”

“Analyze the situation. If the Elvar are happy and content and he is willing to offer his allegiance, he may remain. Otherwise take him in custody and wait for the ship.”

Grabon flashed that frightening smile again.

“I’ll look forward to it. Your Majesty.” He bowed his head, then looked over at her, a hint of amusement in his eyes. “Human. Try not to cause too much trouble.”

He dipped his head again, then left, leaving her glaring after him.

“What an annoying male.”

Cronan laughed.

“Sometimes. But he is also an impressive fighter and has a great deal of compassion for others beneath that gruff facade. He didn’t have to join our fight but he did after he witnessed Ulmat’s cruelty personally.” He looked down at her, very lightly tracing the edge of the throw where it touched her neck. “So, my dangerous little human, what am I going to do with you now?”

CHAPTER FIVE

Cronan felt Unity’s pulse flutter beneath his fingers where they rested on her neck. Now that she was clean, her sweet scent was even stronger, his codix responding to that enticing scent. Would her blood taste as sweet?

Blood? What the hell was he thinking? Traditionally a mating bond was also a blood bond, but he had no intention of taking a mate. And even if he did, it wouldn’t be this fragile little human, no matter how sweet she smelled or how tempted he was by the delicious curves beneath the towel.

“You could start by finding me some clothes.”

Despite her attempt to sound matter-of-fact, that betraying flutter gave her away. She was not unaffected by his presence.

“What a shame. I find this outfit quite… attractive.”

“Is that why you threw a blanket over me?”

He winced internally. It had been an instinctive response to the sight of her bare flesh when another male was present. The type of response he could not afford to have.

“Robat is arranging for clothing,” he said, choosing not to answer her question.

“In that case, how about a comb or a brush?”

She lifted a hand to the long tangled locks and gave him a rueful smile. As she did he got a clear view of the dark smudges still disfiguring her pale skin. What he’d previously assumed was dirt was now obviously the fading remnants of two large bruises—one across her cheekbone and the other on her jaw. He growled as fury raced through him, the sound harsh enough to even surprise himself.

He very carefully lifted her chin and brushed aside the rest of her hair. Her skin was impossibly smooth, her hair like damp silk.

“Who did this to you?”

“Ulmat, of course, when I refused to go down on him.”

“Go down?”

Pink crept up her face.

“You know. Put my mouth on him. Down there.”

She gestured at his codix, and despite his fury his body reacted to the thought. Her eyes widened as his codix flexed and the color on her face intensified.

“Oh my.”

“An honorable male would never try to force you to perform such an act.” His voice was far rougher than usual as he tried to control his own reaction. “I am only sorry that he is dead and I cannot teach him the error of his ways.”

“I’m not. I’m glad he’s dead.”

“I will not allow anyone else to harm you.”

The words came out as a vow, and she smiled up at him.

“Thank you.”

She put her hand over his where it still rested against her face, then shocked him completely by turning her head and brushing a quick kiss against his palm. That one brief contact sent arousal rocketing through him so quickly he felt dizzy. He yanked his hand away and strode over to the balcony doors, needing the space between them before he did something completely foolish like pulling her into his arms and thoroughly exploring that sweet, tempting mouth.

“Is something wrong?” she asked, following him over and putting her small hand on his arm, her touch burning into his skin.

“No.” He managed to unclench his jaw and tried again. “Would you care to go outside?”

“God, yes. I only have a tiny little courtyard at home but it’s full of plants and flowers and I spend some time out there every day, even during tax season. I think I miss that more than anything.”

He understood—he was used to spending a lot of time outdoors as well. He opened the doors and she took an eager step forward, then hesitated.

“It’s not too public, is it? Given that I’m only wearing a towel.”

The reminder did nothing to help him wrestle his unruly body under control, but it did veil most of her delectable curves.

“There is a garden below the balcony, but it’s surrounded by a wall and my guards are on patrol outside the wall.”

Another one of Barthar’s security precautions.

She nodded and walked through the doors and gave an audible gasp of delight.

“This is beautiful.”

He had to agree. The large balcony ran the length of the royal quarters, with numerous containers overflowing with flowering plants. Flowering vines also covered the arbors which divided the space into sections for eating or relaxing or even sleeping. His gaze snagged on the wide, pillow-covered bed suspended beneath one such structure, suddenly envisioning a naked Unity sprawled on the soft coverlet and smiling at him.

Fuck. What the hell is wrong with me? He had a massive list of things to be done; he should be working on those, not following his little female as she darted around the balcony exclaiming over the plants. She ran a careful finger over a velvety blossom and shook her head.

“I can’t believe that bastard was responsible for this.”

“He was not. Alric had it built for his queen.”

“He must have loved her a lot,” she said wistfully.

“So I understand, but she died young.”

“What a shame.”

At each end of the balcony, stone stairs curved down to the garden below. It too was richly planted and contained several pretty fountains. A tall stone wall enclosed the entire garden, and beyond the wall more gardens awaited, this time the formal ones leading off of the banquet and reception rooms. Her gaze traveled past them to the intricate complexity of the castle and the multitude of walls and turrets surrounding them.

“This all looks so old.”

“It is. Although it was enlarged and altered by a number of kings, it’s been several hundred years since the last structures were added.”

She shook her head and smiled up at him.

“I suppose I just expected something more… futuristic after being taken by an alien.”

“We were admitted to the Kaisarian Empire during the time of my great-grandfather. What we are taught is that he was wary about introducing too much new technology too rapidly and changing our way of life.” He shrugged. “His motives may have been pure, but Ulmat restricted the use of technology as a way of enforcing his own power.”

“Do you intend to change that?”

“Yes. Although I agree that it should be introduced gradually, it’s time to bring Farlain into the modern world.”

“Including getting rid of slavery?”

She gave him a challenging look, but he nodded.

“As I said, it’s never been part of our culture, but I intend to protect all my subjects.”

My subjects. The words had come automatically but it was the first time he had felt the truth of them. The people of Farlain were his to protect and guide. He only hoped he was worthy of the challenge. The weight of his responsibilities laid heavily on his shoulders, but he decided they could wait just a little longer.

“If you’d like to have a seat, I’ll go and find that comb you wanted. Unless you’d rather go back inside?”

“I’d much rather be out here.”

“Then I will return.”

When he returned, she was sitting on one of the padded benches, her eyes closed and her face turned up to the sun. She’d let the throw slip away and her shoulders were once again bare, her creamy flesh glowing in the sunlight. He knew he should hand her the comb and walk away. Instead, he sat down behind her.

“If you will allow me?”

Her eyes flew open, but after studying him for a second, she nodded. He wanted to thank her for her trust, but instead he concentrated on untangling the soft dark strands, continuing until her hair was a smooth dark fall halfway down her back. After one last pass of the comb, he found himself sweeping her hair to one side to reveal that bare, tempting shoulder again. The sweet curve where her neck met her shoulder was the traditional place for a Farlain female to receive a mating bite. Driven by an impulse he didn’t fully understand, he bent down and brushed his lips across her silky flesh.

Her eyes had closed again while he combed her hair, but as soon as his mouth touched her skin they snapped open. For a moment, they simply stared at each other, the only sound the gentle hum of insects and the soft rustle of leaves. Then he very slowly bent towards her, giving her a chance to pull away or refuse. She did neither and his mouth returned to the curve of her neck. This time he lingered, allowing himself to taste her sweet, fragrant skin.

She shivered, tilting her head ever so slightly to expose more of her neck, and her fragrance grew richer, sweeter. Her reaction intoxicated him and he deepened the kiss, drawing more of the tender flesh into his mouth.

She shivered again and her towel began to slip lower, revealing the tempting upper curves of her breasts. Those plump little nipples thrust against the cloth and he wanted to push the towel lower, to curve his hand over the tempting peaks and see how she would respond to his mouth there. His codix flexed eagerly at the thought, and he slid his hand down over her shoulder, his fingers lightly touching her chest.

Once again she didn’t resist, yielding to his caress. His hand slipped a little lower, just to the edge of the towel…

“Your Majesty.” Robat’s voice shattered the intimate moment.

“Stay where you are,” he ordered as Unity’s eyes flew open, a hint of confusion mingling with the pleasure still written on her features. “What do you want?”

“I’ve brought the clothing you requested, sire.”

Clothing. Yes, of course. Embarrassed by his lack of control, he rose abruptly to his feet.

“Please make use of whatever pleases you. And you’ll need to eat,” he said gruffly, his voice rougher than he intended. “I’ll have food sent up. I have… matters to attend to.”

She studied him, her expression shifting from languid to alert, then she reached up and adjusted the towel, tucking it firmly back in place. Ignoring a pang of disappointment, he forced himself to turn away.

“Thank you,” she said quietly, her voice following him.

He nodded curtly, not trusting himself to look back at her.

“Remain in these rooms,” he added. “Even dressed it’s not safe for you out there. Not yet at least. I will return later.”

She didn’t respond for a second and he was about to turn back when she sighed.

“All right. I’ll wait.”

Robat was waiting obediently in the living area, but there was a speculative gleam in his eyes. He’d placed a basket of clothing on the table and he gestured at it.

“I have provided a variety of clothing. Should I send a serving maid to assist your… companion?”

An action that would be sure to start a stream of gossip and speculation. He shook his head.

“Not yet. Arrange for a meal, but bring it to her yourself.” He didn’t like the thought of the other male alone with her, but he preferred to limit the knowledge of her presence for as long as possible. “You will treat Lady Unity with the utmost respect,” he added.

“Of course, sire.”

Robat followed him through the door, closing it behind them. Cronan didn’t like the feeling that there was now a barrier between him and his female, but he forced himself to keep moving.

He should never have touched her, tasted her. He wanted more, but he needed to remember that she was not here voluntarily. The reminder made him frown. Had her response to his touch been genuine, or driven by fear? No. He was quite sure that he hadn’t detected any fear in her scent. Because she was aroused, an inner voice whispered, but he ignored it.

Barthar awaited him, a sheaf of documents in his hand, and Cronan sighed and took them. But even as he set to work, the tantalizing promise she represented lingered in his thoughts.

By the time he returned to his quarters, the sun was dipping below the horizon, giving the castle a warm orange glow. He’d spent the better part of the day attending meetings and reviewing reports but he was as tired as if he’d spent the day in hard physical labor. The weight of his responsibilities still lingered on his shoulders, but his thoughts drifted to Unity just as they had throughout the day.

Reluctant to disturb her—and afraid of succumbing to temptation—he bypassed the main chamber and made his way to his study. He needed to focus on the list of tasks that seemed to be increasing rather than diminishing, not the distracting female in his quarters. Perhaps even in his bed… His hand clenched on his desk, the cool, dark wood a welcome respite from the warmth of his thoughts.

He continued working, reviewing documents and responding to requests for judgment, yet his mind remained stubbornly distracted. He remembered the way she’d looked at him before he left, her cheeks pink, her blue eyes wide and dazed. His gaze kept drifting to the door that connected his study to the main chamber. Was she asleep, her small body tucked into his bed? Or was she awake, waiting for him? The questions swirled in his mind like a restless storm.

Just as he was about to give in to his desire to check on her, the door creaked open, and she slipped into the room. Her hair, now dry and brushed, framed her face like a dark halo.

“May I join you?” she asked, her voice low and husky.

CHAPTER SIX

As Unity entered the study, the warm glow of lanterns and the soft crackle of the fireplace enveloped her. The room was paneled in rich, dark wood and appeared very traditional at first glance, but a second look revealed that although the small fire was real, the flames in the lamps were artificial and there was a datapad mixed with the piles of documents on the massive wooden desk in front of Cronan. An indefinable air of fatigue hung over him, his broad shoulders slumped slightly, but even exhaustion couldn’t dim the sharp angles of his face or the intensity that radiated from him.

She gave him a tentative smile as she approached, her bare feet barely making a sound on the plush rug. The basket of clothes Robar had left for her had only included one pair of shoes and they were uncomfortably tight. The dresses, on the other hand, fit quite well which was a little disturbing. She didn’t like the fact that the steward had observed her closely enough to be able to gauge her size so accurately. Then again, she didn’t like him either. Although he’d been scrupulously polite, she didn’t trust his apparent meekness. There was something sly lurking in his eyes that made her nervous.

Perhaps it had been that lingering unease which had made her seek out Cronan. The solitude of his quarters had started to unnerve her. The silence had given her too much time to think, to wonder what lay ahead, and to worry about the strange, unsettling feelings Cronan stirred within her. She’d decided it would be best to remain polite but distant. Yet as soon as she realized he was in the study, she hadn’t been able to resist going to him.

He watched as she walked towards him, his eyes sweeping down over her dress. The gown was a simple fall of deep blue silk that matched her eyes. The long full sleeves fluttered around her hands and it was caught beneath the bodice with a pale blue ribbon. A matching ribbon ran along the neckline—the very low neckline. The bodice was tight enough that it revealed the upper curve of her breasts. In fact all of the dresses were tight across the chest which made her wonder if Farlain females were built differently.

If so, Cronan didn’t seem to mind her more generous curves. The golden glow in his eyes intensified as he watched her approach, just as it had intensified after kissing her neck. She’d been so caught up in the moment, in the gentle stroke of the comb through her hair and then the delicious thrill of his mouth against her neck, that it hadn’t even occurred to her until after he rose that she probably shouldn’t encourage him.

Even now the memory sent a shiver of pleasure down her spine and her nipples peaked beneath the thin silk of her gown. His gaze immediately dropped to them, just for a second, but long enough to leave a flush of warmth behind. She put a hand on the back of the chair in front of the desk as her legs trembled, her fingers curling around the intricately carved wood.

“You look like you need a break,” she said, her voice low and husky, the words slipping out before she could think better of them.

His gaze narrowed, his eyes dropping to her hand on the chair before returning to hers. A muscle in his jaw ticked, and for a moment, a glimmer of something beyond his usual stoic control flickered across his face.

“I have work to do. I need to make sure the transition goes as smoothly as possible, to ensure the stability of our world.”

His voice was weary but determined. He’s going to be a good king, she decided, remembering Ulmat’s petulant face. She couldn’t imagine the former king working late—or even working for that matter.

“Is there something specific you’re concerned about?” she asked, her curiosity getting the better of her.

His eyes returned to a stack of documents, his golden gaze scanning the pages thoughtfully.

“Among other things, I’m trying to uncover the extent of Ulmat’s involvement in the slave trade,” he said. “And specifically with human slaves.”

The memory of her own abduction, still raw and painful, made her shudder.

“What have you found?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

He sighed, his eyes still on the papers in front of him.

“Not much yet,” he admitted. “But I have a feeling there’s more to it than just Ulmat’s personal indulgences.”

“What makes you think that?” she asked, her curiosity aroused.

“Only hints, rumors, nothing concrete. I need to know if it’s true, and if so, how to stop it.”

His frustration was palpable, and her heart went out to him. Before she could think better of it, she reached over and put her hand over his briefly.

“Follow the money,” she suggested. “If he was involved, it had to be because he was profiting from the arrangement. If we can track the transactions, we might be able to uncover the extent of his involvement.”

“I wouldn’t even know where to start,” he admitted.

“Then let me help. I’m used to dealing with financial records. Maybe I can help you follow the trail.”

“You really think you could assist me?” he asked, his voice skeptical.

“I’m sure of it. Follow the money—that’s always the key. At least let me take a look.”

Without waiting for a response, she circled the desk and stood next to him, picking up the first document. The translator she’d received didn’t extend to visual translation and both the letters and the numbers were unintelligible. She suspected learning the language would take longer, but numbers followed a pattern that was much easier for her to follow.

He gave her a bemused look but he explained their numbering system. Fortunately, it was simple and logical and she picked it up rapidly. Even with the words she quickly began to recognize repeated patterns. He slid a chair in place for her as she began examining the documents, watching her with a mixture of curiosity and gratitude as her analytical mind took over.

She’d skimmed through half the pile before something caught her attention, her excitement growing as she checked back through the other documents.

“I think I found something,” she said hopefully.

“What is it?”

“Look. This account was transferred from Lord Keppa.” She indicated the previous page. “But only after he received an advance payment—from Ulmat presumably. A relatively small amount goes in but a much larger amount is transferred back. I can’t be entirely positive, but it looks like what we call money laundering on Earth—hiding the source of illegal income by distributing it through other channels.”

He shook his head.

“I honestly didn’t expect him to be so stupid as to keep records.”

“All of the transactions would appear legitimate at a casual glance, especially if they are looked at on an individual basis. But the pattern repeats—here and here, and probably in other places.”

She gave him a triumphant smile, then impulsively leaned forward to give him a quick, victorious kiss. She’d intended to keep it brief, but as soon as their lips touched he growled, and then he yanked her towards him, kissing her hungrily. She gasped and his tongue slid between her lips, hot and rough and delicious. Her previous determination to keep her distance disappeared in a haze of pleasure and her arms went around his neck, holding him close as the kiss deepened.

But then his fingers accidentally grazed one of the bruises on her face. She winced as a jolt of pain shot through her. He immediately released her, his face back in its previous mask even though the golden glow lingered in his eyes.

“I’m sorry,” he muttered, his voice gruff. “Thank you for your help. I think we’re onto something here.”

He started to stand, clearly about to leave her again, and she grabbed his hand.

“Wait,” she said quickly. “I know you have a lot to do, but please stay and eat with me first.”

He frowned but it didn’t appear to be directed at her.

“I told Robat to provide food for you.”

“I know, but…” She shrugged. “He just left the tray and everything was different and I just couldn’t.”

At least the food she’d been provided in the dungeon had been recognizable if not tasty—bowls of a porridge-like gruel accompanied by hard crackers.

His face softened, a glimmer of something in his eyes that made her heart skip a beat.

“Then I will do my best to explain so you will eat.”

Their hands were still joined as he led her out onto the balcony.

He made a quick call on a hidden control panel and an unseen servant delivered a rolling cart with a sumptuous meal which Cronan brought out to the balcony. She still didn’t recognize the food, but it didn’t matter as he patiently explained each dish. The food was delicious, but she suspected that just having company would have made it a satisfying meal. The air was filled with the sweet scent of the flowers surrounding them, and the sound of gentle chirping from the garden below mixed with the trickle of water to create a soothing background hum.

He relaxed as they ate, his face softening as they talked. She shared some of her happier moments with her mother—their annual trip to the beach where even her mother seemed more at peace. How she’d taught Unity to garden and encouraged her love of plants.

“She sounds like a good mother,” he said softly.

“She was, but she was also sad much of the time.”

“My mother was as well. She never got over Ulmat not only rejecting her but smearing her name. The worst part is that I think she genuinely loved the bastard.”

His face hardened and she put a sympathetic hand over his. He clasped it gently, then changed the subject to more pleasant memories of his childhood. His housekeeper had both scolded him and spoiled him and seemed to have been more of a mother to him than his actual parent. His stories about all the trouble he had gotten into with his weapons master made her smile, but he clearly harbored an affection for the older warrior.

Her eyelids grew heavy as the stars shimmered overhead, her body succumbing to the exhaustion of the day. She leaned back in her chair, smiling sleepily at Cronan. For a moment they simply looked at each other, his eyes gleaming gold in the dimness and the world around them fading away.

“Time for bed, little one,” he said gruffly at last, rising to his feet.

He bent down and scooped her up, carrying her as easily as he had before. The same sense of safety washed over her as his scent surrounded her and her eyes fluttered shut, her head nestling into the crook of his neck as he carried her towards the bedroom.

She was already half asleep when he gently laid her down on the silky sheets, her body sinking into the decadent softness. She murmured a sleepy thank you as her eyes closed. He brushed a strand of hair back from her face, his big warm fingers lingering on her neck. The touch sent a shiver of warmth down her spine before she drifted off to sleep.

CHAPTER SEVEN

As Cronan carried Unity to bed, his mind warred with his body. The soft curves of her body cradled against him were almost impossibly tempting, especially with his body still responding to the memory of her mouth under his, sweet and willing and responsive. She looked even more delicious tucked into his bed and for a fleeting moment he considered joining her.

No, he told himself sternly. He would not take advantage of her and there was still work to be done. He couldn’t let his desire cloud his judgment. But as he drew a blanket over her he couldn’t resist stroking the delicate, tempting curve of her neck before he forced himself to leave.

He returned to his study, the silence pressing in on him despite the faint crackle of the fire, The firelight cast flickering shadows on the walls as he sat back down at his desk and wearily regarded the documents scattered across it. He intended to follow the trail Unity had discovered, but it would not be a rapid process.

A soft knock at the door broke the silence, and he called out, “Enter.”

Barthar strode in, a heavy frown on his scarred features. The scars formed harsh lines against his deep bronze skin, making him look even more formidable. He was several years older than Cronan but he had proven his loyalty time and time again and Cronan trusted him completely.

“We’ve received two calls from ships asking to land today.”

Cronan returned his frown. Normally ships only landed once or twice a month at most.

“Do you think their arrival is connected to Ulmat’s death?”

The other male shrugged, striding restlessly over to the fireplace.

“I don’t know. They would have to have been close in order to arrive so swiftly. But Ulmat may have had more off world connections than we suspected.”

“He may have been involved in the slave trade as well.”

He handed Barthar the documents with the suspicious transactions Unity had discovered. His second scanned them quickly, his face darkening.

“Fuck. How deep does this corruption go? We need to be prepared for another battle. The loss of this kind of income is going to make someone very angry.”

“Agreed. Double the watches.”

“And the ships?”

He hesitated, considering the matter.

“It could merely be a coincidence and we’ve agreed that increasing contact with the rest of the Empire would be beneficial. Allow them to land but monitor everything they do.”

“Very well.” Barthar shot him a curious look. “How did you recognize the connection so quickly?”

“I didn’t,” he admitted. “Unity was the one to figure it out.”

“The slave?”

He hadn’t discussed Unity with Barthar earlier but of course his second knew about the situation.

“The former slave,” he corrected.

“You don’t find it suspicious that she just happened to discover the connections?”

“No, I don’t,” he snapped. “She is the victim here. I want you to ensure that she is protected, no matter what happens. I won’t have her caught in the crossfire.”

His jaw tightened when Barthar hesitated.

“Is that a problem?”

His voice was low and deadly, and Barthar gave him a cautious look as he responded.

“We don’t know much about her. She’s a stranger, and you’re… indulging her.”

“Indulging her?” He slammed his fist on the desk and several documents fluttered to the floor. “I’m protecting her, Barthar. She’s been through hell, and she deserves our care.”

Barthar raised his hands.

“I’m just saying, be cautious.”

He glared at his friend.

“You’re starting to sound like Grabon. ‘Females are dangerous.’ I thought you were better than that, Barthar.”

The rebuke struck its mark, and Barthar’s face darkened. Their eyes met, both of them blazing, the air thick with tension. Then Barthar sighed, giving him a thoughtful look.

“As you wish.”

After a brief moment of strained silence, Barthar cleared his throat.

“The eastern provinces are requesting modifications to their trade agreement, and the southern provinces are requesting additional troops to deal with the bandit problem. Both appear to have accepted the transition. I am more concerned about the Western Isles, simply because we haven’t heard from them apart from that one call. Hopefully Grabon will be able to provide additional information before the ship we sent arrives.”

He nodded, noting additional items for his list as Barthar reported. They spent the next hour discussing strategies and deployments before Barthar finally stood, his eyes glinting as he studied Cronan’s face.

“You need rest, Cronan. You’ve been pushing yourself hard lately,” he said gruffly.

He nodded, rubbing his tired eyes.

“Aye, you’re right. I’ll try to get some sleep.”

Barthar nodded and left as Cronan sat back in his chair. He knew he should find somewhere to sleep, but his feet seemed rooted to the spot. And when he finally rose, he found himself heading for his bedroom. He told himself he’d just check on Unity, make sure she was comfortable.

She was curled in his bed, her dark hair spread across his pillow. As he stood there watching her she whimpered in her sleep, a soft, plaintive sound that tugged at his heart. He couldn’t resist going to her and running a soothing hand down her back. When her body relaxed under his touch, his resolve crumbled. He lay down beside her, pulling her gently into his arms. She snuggled against him, all soft curves and sweet, fragrant female.

He closed his eyes, telling himself he’d leave in a minute once he was sure she was peaceful. Just one minute. But as he held her, his exhaustion caught up with him and he couldn’t find the energy to move. She stirred a little, her hand coming to rest over his heart, and his arms tightened around her, holding her secure. His last thought was that he should get up and find a separate bed, but it was too late. Sleep claimed him, and he fell into a deep, dreamless slumber.

Sunlight on his face woke him. His arms were still wrapped around Unity and he was shocked by how well he’d slept, how peaceful he felt. It was a foreign sensation, and he laid there for a moment savoring it. But peace wasn’t the only thing he felt. His codix throbbed demandingly, reminding him just how long it had been since he’d taken a female. He tried to ignore his unruly body, but he couldn’t stop the warm tide of arousal that swept through him.

He started to extricate himself, careful not to disturb her, but her eyes opened as soon as he moved. A sleepy smile spread across her face, a private, intimate smile, and his chest suddenly ached. Without thinking, he leaned in, his lips gently brushing against hers. She hummed happily and snuggled closer. He could feel the stiff points of her nipples against his chest and his control weakened.

He deepened the kiss as his hand slid down to cup her breast, soft and heavy in his hand. He found a plump nipple and gently tugged it, reveling at her sharp intake of breath and the way it stiffened even more under his touch. He pulled back a little, watching her expression as he continued playing with her nipple, learning what she liked. When he tightened his grip her cheeks flushed and she arched into his hand.

He was on the verge of lowering his head to see if his mouth could bring her as much pleasure when some measure of control finally returned. He pulled away, his breathing ragged, and she gave him a teasing pout.

“Good morning,” she whispered, her voice husky.

Cronan cleared his throat, attempting to compose himself.

“Good morning,” he replied, his voice a touch gruffer than he intended. “I should… get up.”

He hesitated, his body still thrumming with desire, and her mouth twitched.

“It seems as if you’re already up.”

Fuck, he wanted to kiss her again. Instead, he stood, his movements unusually stiff.

“I need to get going,” he amended.

She sat up, watching him curiously.

“Where are you going?”

“The training room. I try to make time to go every day.”

Not only to keep his skills sharp but because the disciplined movements also helped his mental clarity.

She tilted her head, her expression thoughtful, and he did his best to ignore the tempting curve of her neck.

“Can I come with you?”

He hesitated, about to refuse, but something in her expression stopped him.

“Why?” he asked instead.

“I want to learn to defend myself. I don’t want to be helpless again.”

His hesitation disappeared. How could he deny her that?

“Very well. You can join me.”

His chest ached again as her face lit up and she gave him a radiant smile. She scrambled quickly out of bed, almost tripping over her skirt, then laughed.

“But I think you’d better find something else for me to wear first—unless you’re like the ancient Greeks and train in the nude.”

She laughed again when he almost tripped over his own feet.

CHAPTER EIGHT

Unity tugged nervously at her shirt. Or rather one of Cronan’s shirts which he had given her to wear. It was far too big for her but she’d tied knots at the neck and hem to adjust it a little bit. She’d also had him cut off a strip around the bottom that she’d used to bind her breasts in a kind of makeshift bra. Explaining why she needed the cloth had been… interesting. She wouldn’t have thought a Farlain could blush but the color had definitely deepened across his cheekbones, and she was sure her own face had been scarlet.

She was also wearing a pair of his training shorts, which clung a little too tightly to her butt. Of course the ones he was wearing clung equally tightly to his very fine ass and the extremely impressive bulge between his legs. Either Ulmat had been extremely undersized or Cronan was exceptionally large but there was no doubt that he was as fully equipped as a human male. But much larger, she thought, sneaking another look at him before snatching her eyes away.

Ever since he’d kissed her she’d found herself thinking about him in a way that was totally inappropriate. Isn’t it? Waking up with him had seemed so natural. And while she was certainly attracted to him, even if he wasn’t human, it was more than just his physical appeal. His determination, his sense of honor, his intelligence, his kindness—all of it combined to create a compelling whole.

As he led her down a maze of corridors, she tried to concentrate on the new environment, hoping to keep her mind off of him. The stone walls and floors continued, but unlike her dungeon they were brightly illuminated by concealed and clearly modern lighting.

“Is this part of the castle new?”

“No, but it was renovated to incorporate modern technology. The training rooms are new,” he added as he turned into a side passageway and then opened a door.

She wasn’t sure what she’d expected but it wasn’t a plain white room. The only indication of its possible use was a large red outline painted on the floor in the center of the room. A padded floor, she realized as it gave slightly beneath her feet.

“No equipment?’ she asked nervously.

“I don’t believe you’re ready for weapons quite yet.”

He had an amused look on his face and she glared at him.

“You don’t know that. I could be an expert marksman.”

“Are you?”

“Well, no. But I could be and you just assumed I wasn’t because I’m a woman.”

“I assumed you weren’t because you’d never mentioned it. And you do not carry yourself like a warrior,” he added.

She gave him a skeptical look.

“How does a warrior carry himself?”

“Balanced, prepared. Try to knock me off my feet.”

She did, but nothing she tried worked. He only looked more amused.

“It’s not my fault you’re built like a damn tree,” she muttered, and he laughed. “Plus you were ready for me. I didn’t take you by surprise.”

“I am always ready.”

“I could be ready.”

He shook his head.

“Very well. It will make no difference, but I can see I will have to prove it to you. Are you ready?”

She nodded, doing her best to brace herself before—

And then she was on the floor. He’d come down with her, breaking her fall so she didn’t crash into the ground, and now he smiled down at her.

“You see?”

She nodded, still breathless from shock—and very aware of his large powerful body on top of hers. Her mouth went dry and she licked her lips nervously. His eyes immediately focused on her mouth, the golden glow intensifying. The thick bar of his erection flexed against her stomach and she realized that as large as he had seemed in the tight shorts, he was even bigger now.

“Are you convinced?”

His voice was a deep growl that sent a shiver down her spine.

“I don’t know.” She gave him an innocent look. “You might have to show me again. Maybe even more than once.”

“Perhaps,” he said distractedly as he stroked a finger down her neck, left bare when she’d tied her hair into a high ponytail. “Such a pretty neck.”

It was clearly a compliment and the touch of his finger was making her quiver, but she managed a somewhat breathless laugh.

“That’s not usually the part of my body that men admire.”

“I am not concerned with other males.” There was that growl again. “And I admire every delightful inch.”

He lowered his head, almost as if he couldn’t help himself, but instead of kissing her, he buried his face in her neck, sucking lightly at the sensitive flesh as he had after he combed her hair. Damn that felt good. She tilted her head to allow him greater access and when he scraped his teeth delicately across the cord of her neck it sent a shockwave of excitement straight to her needy clit.

Her entire body was on fire, her breasts tingling where they brushed his chest, heat pulsing low in her stomach. She put her hand on his head to hold him against her neck, his short hair surprisingly soft, and ran her other hand over his powerfully muscled back. He groaned and raised his head, eyes blazing gold.

“An interesting approach to training,” a voice drawled.

Before she had a chance to react, Cronan had her back on his feet, his body standing protectively in front of her.

“What do you want, Barthar?” he growled at someone.

She peeped around him and saw another Farlain in the entrance to the room. He was big, easily as big as Cronan, but clearly older and heavily scarred on both his face and body.

“We were supposed to train together this morning,” the newcomer said. “Or were you too… distracted to remember?”

“Lady Unity wishes to learn to defend herself.”

“I see it was quite successful. She was clearly the victor.”

Despite the mockery in his words, she found herself smiling.

“You’re being ridiculous,” Cronan snapped.

“Am I? A weaker opponent must rely on whatever skills they have, however… unusual.”

The words could have been a compliment, but she couldn’t detect any approval on his face. She lifted her chin defiantly and glared at him.

“At least I’m doing something rather than just standing around mocking others. Is that what happens when you’re too old to fight?”

There was a moment of stunned silence and then Cronan started to laugh. He pulled her forward and put his arm around her shoulders.

“Unity, may I introduce this aging warrior? Barthar is my second-in-command.”

Barthar looked at her and shook his head but he didn’t seem offended by her words.

“Many skills improve with age, Lady Unity. As His Majesty has reason to know,” he said, and then raised an eyebrow at Cronan. “So perhaps I should be the one to train her.”

There was that growl again, and his arm tightened around her shoulders.

“That is not going to happen. But perhaps we could demonstrate?”

“Of course. Try not to take advantage of my aged self.”

“First one outside the square loses,” Cronan told her quietly before he left her standing by the wall and returned to the painted square.

There was no warning, no discussion—the two males simply flew at each other. As far as she could tell, the fact that it was a training match made no difference. The blows were hard and brutal, and neither male hesitated. They appeared to be well-matched. Cronan was a trifle faster and Barthar a trifle heavier. Barthar also seemed to have a canny sense of where Cronan would strike, frequently slipping away just before a blow landed.

There was something primal and thrilling about the fight—the two powerful males struggling silently, muscles straining. Cronan’s golden skin gleamed with sweat and his eyes blazed, his face intent. So masculine, so ferocious. So incredibly hot.

She shifted against the wall as her clit pulsed between her legs and Cronan suddenly focused on her, his nostrils flaring. The momentary distraction was enough—Barthar hit him low and caught him off balance. Even though Cronan recovered almost immediately, it was too late. One of his feet was outside the square.

“Foolish,” Barthar sighed. “I thought you knew better.”

Cronan ignored him, his eyes focused on her.

“Leave us,” he ordered.

Barthar opened his mouth, then looked at Cronan’s face and shut it again. He left without another word as Cronan stalked over to the door and locked it behind him.

“You distracted me,” he growled low in his chest, moving towards her like a predator.

She instinctively took a step back and collided with the wall. Her heart was beating frantically but it wasn’t from fear.

“I didn’t intend to,” she whispered.

He growled again, leaning in so his body crowded hers against the wall, his mouth just inches away from hers. She’d never wanted to be kissed so badly in her life.

“It wasn’t your intention?” he mocked, one hand trailing over the exposed curve of her neck.

“No.” She licked her lips and he followed the movement, eyes blazing. “I was… impressed.”

“Just impressed?” he growled low in his chest, pressing even closer.

She stared up at him, her heart still hammering, waiting to see what he would do. He studied her for a long, intense moment, then moved with the same lightning speed he’d shown in the fight, his hand closing over her breast and tugging on a throbbing nipple. She gasped and he captured the sound, his mouth claiming hers as she melted into him, her hands sliding around his neck. He yanked at the knot at the top of her shirt, tearing it open, then ripped her makeshift bra away, baring her breasts to him.

“Fucking perfect,” he breathed, his thumb rasping across the now naked peak and making her writhe.

He lifted her off her feet, pinning her to the wall, as his mouth closed over her nipple, hot and demanding. She wrapped her legs eagerly around his waist as he sucked, the heat and pressure driving her wild.

“More, please, more,” she begged shamelessly as he moved to her other nipple.

She could feel the hot length of his cock throbbing against her clit through the thin fabrics between them and she squirmed against him as he kept sucking and nipping until both her nipples were stiff, aching peaks, her clit throbbing with the same aching need. He finally raised his head to look down at her, golden eyes blazing with satisfaction.

“Can you come just from this? From my mouth on those fat little nipples?”

“I need more,” she gasped and his hips surged forward, his cock pressing perfectly against her clit, and she cried out, clinging to him as the pleasure built.

Her nipples tingled, still sensitive from his demanding mouth, and his hard chest rubbed against them each time he moved, making the pleasure even sharper. Each thrust against her clit increased her excitement until she didn’t think she could take anymore, but he kept moving against her until one last jerk of his hips triggered her climax, her head thrown back and her cry echoing through the room.

She collapsed against him, her body still quivering, as he gently stroked her hair.

“I have you, little one,” he whispered.

“Not little,” she protested drowsily, and he laughed.

The fierceness that had possessed him had washed away with her climax and she tilted her head back, smiling up at him.

“Do all your training sessions end like this?”

“This is a first.” He sighed. “Barthar is right. You are a distraction.”

She bit her lip, guilt sweeping over her.

“I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. It was due to my lack of discipline.”

“Umm, what did I do, exactly? So I won’t do it again.”

“I could scent your arousal.”

Her cheeks heated as she gave him a horrified look.

“You could smell me?”

“Yes. Your scent is deliciously sweet. Intoxicating. Distracting. And I very much hope to scent it again, although perhaps not in the training room.”

“We didn’t get very far, did we? With my training, I mean,” she added when he smiled.

“No, but we will start again.”

“Now?”

Her body still felt languid, heavy with satisfaction.

“Now. As I said earlier, you should always be prepared.”

Ignoring her muttered protest, he put her back on her feet, tied her bra back in place—with only the quickest caress of her still sensitive nipples—and smiled at her.

“We will begin with breathing.”

CHAPTER NINE

Aweek later Cronan headed back to his quarters, his pace increasing in anticipation of seeing Unity. It had been a long, frustrating week in a number of ways. The nobles continued to show him outward deference, but there had been two assassination attempts. Barthar had uncovered one plot in the earliest stages, but the second assassin had come close to making it over the wall and into his private garden. He had immediately tripled the guards—not out of concern for his own safety but because Unity had been alone there at the time.

Unity. He smiled and walked even faster. She had been the best part of his week—sweet, smart, passionate, and endlessly fascinating. He’d dedicated part of each day to her training and she was making excellent progress despite their frequent… diversions.

She’d very quickly figured out exactly how to distract him—she’d won her first training match by boldly cupping his codix, then throwing him off balance and over the training square when he froze in shock. He couldn’t even be annoyed when she danced around triumphantly, although he had repaid her by teasing her for so long before he let her climax that she could barely move afterwards.

“Still worth it,” she muttered as he carried her to bed.

Having her in his bed was another bright spot. Knowing that no matter how late his meetings ran, he would return to find her there. Knowing that he would see her face each morning, even if they only had time for a quick kiss before he had to leave. There had been a lot of kisses and a lot of climaxes—mostly for her. He’d yet to remove his pants in her presence although she rocked against his codix so eagerly that twice he’d lost control and erupted like an untried youngling.

He knew why he was holding back—because I want to claim her fully as my mate. He wanted that so desperately that he’d started avoiding her neck, afraid that his control would slip and he’d give her a mating bite without seeking her permission—permission he had not requested. He kept asking himself if it was fair to tie her to him when she hadn’t chosen this future.

Although perhaps he could at least raise the idea…

He turned the corner and sighed when he saw Robat waiting for him.

“Yes, what is it?”

“I wished to speak to you about the ball tomorrow night, Your Majesty.”

He bit back another sigh. He despised elaborate social events to begin with, and the last thing he wanted to do was attend a ball with people who would smile to his face and happily stab him in the back if they had the opportunity. But balls were another indication of normalcy and a smooth transition so he would attend and pretend to enjoy himself.

“What about the ball?”

“I have had a number of… requests from ladies of the court to be your companion for the evening. Your lack of interest has been noticed.”

“Good. I’m not interested in any of them.”

Robat coughed discreetly.

“If you will forgive my impertinence, sire, one of the reasons I suggested that you claim Lady Unity was so she could help foil these unwelcome requests.”

He’d considered making his association with her public, but he’d also been reluctant to expose her to the court. On the other hand, he was tired of attending everything alone—and of the persistent seduction attempts. Maybe it was time for a change…

“I will discuss it with her,” he said finally, and Robat gave him a quick shocked glance before he managed to mask it.

“Is she not yours to do with as you wish?” the steward murmured, and he gritted his teeth.

“She is not my slave. She is my… companion.”

“Ah, yes, sire. As you say.”

Robat smiled and bowed, rubbing his hands together as he hurried away, leaving Cronan staring after him. He really needed to find another steward but not only was he short on time, Robat was extremely efficient even if he was annoying.

Hoping that he’d earned a few moments of peace, he entered his quarters and sighed with relief. The door to his study was open and Unity was bent over the datapad he’d obtained for her. She was determined to learn written Farlain and had been making rapid progress.

“Learning to read a language is easier than learning to speak it for me. Since I can see the letters, I can see the patterns. Letters aren’t quite as… elegant as numbers but the principle is the same,” she said when he asked her about it. “Although analyzing the financial records is much more entertaining. Ulmat had everything buried in so many layers I’m surprised he managed to keep track of it all.”

She’d discovered quite a few more suspicious transactions over the course of the week and he had Barthar making discreet enquiries. He wanted to know if the nobles involved were willing accomplices or simply Ulmat’s victims. Fortunately, Barthar’s suspicions about Unity had been laid to rest. He too valued her assistance—although that hadn’t stopped him from warning Cronan about the dangers of distraction.

Barthar was undoubtedly right, he thought as he walked into the study and she looked up and smiled at him. The sweet scent of her arousal already perfumed the air, and the familiar surge of desire raced through him. He forced himself to sit down in a chair next to the desk as she rose and perched on the edge in front of him.

“Have you eaten?” he asked.

She shook her head, her gaze falling to his mouth. He couldn’t help himself, reaching out to brush his knuckles gently against the delicate curve of her jaw.

“You’re hungry.”

“I am.” She gave him a teasing look. “For food as well.”

He ignored the immediate surge in his codix.

“I keep telling you not to wait for me if you’re hungry.”

She shrugged.

“I don’t like eating alone. Funny really, because I did it often enough on Earth.”

“Do you miss your planet?”

He had to force himself to ask the question, but he needed to know. She tilted her head to the side, considering. He didn’t think she did it on purpose but his mouth always watered at the sight of that delicate exposed curve.

“I suppose there are a few things. I miss coffee. And ice cream. My favorite books. Jeans. Real underwear.”

His heart sank with every item she listed, but then she smiled at him.

“But none of them are that important. My life here feels more… real than my memories of Earth.”

“Would you return?” he asked reluctantly and she studied his face for a moment.

“I didn’t think I had a choice.”

“That’s not an answer.”

She gave him a challenging look.

“It’s not a real question if it isn’t a possibility. What do you really want to know?”

“I want to know—”

A peremptory knock on the outer door interrupted him and he wasn’t sure if he was relieved or annoyed.

“That’s Barthar’s knock,” she said, smiling at him. “You’d better answer it. You know he won’t go away.”

“Enter,” he called and Barthar stalked in.

“You’re taking Unity to the ball?” he demanded.

He swore under his breath as her eyes went wide. “You are?”

“We hadn’t actually had a chance to discuss it,” he told Barthar. “Who told you?”

“Robat, of course. He seemed positively gleeful about it.”

“Why would he care?” she asked, giving him a confused look.

“I don’t know and I don’t care. I do care that he was so indiscreet.”

“Perhaps he’s tired of females pestering him,” Barthar said begrudgingly.

She looked even more confused, giving him a questioning look.

“Why would they be pestering Robat? And why would taking me to the ball make a difference?”

“Because every unattached female in this court—and several who are attached—is hoping to become the next queen,” Barthar said before he could prevent him, and the color drained from her face.

“Oh. I hadn’t thought about that. I guess that’s why you’re gone so much.”

She tried to smile at him but it was a pitiful attempt. He glared at Barthar, then lifted her onto his lap, ignoring her faint squeak of protest.

“It is nothing of the sort. My time is spent doing exactly what I’ve told you—taking part in various meaningless ceremonial functions, meeting with people who are only interested in themselves, and trying to hold this planet together.”

“My apologies, Lady Unity,” Barthar said, looking unusually repentant. “I never intended to imply that Cronan was interested in any other female.”

Her body relaxed a little and he sighed.

“So why are you here if it’s not to upset my ma—Unity?”

He knew Barthar caught the slip but at least this time he had the sense not to mention it.

“Because I am concerned about the ball. This is not in any way intended as an insult,” his second said, darting a quick look at Unity, “but she distracts you and this is a dangerous time to be distracted.”

She immediately stiffened again, giving him a worried look. Fuck. Life would be much simpler if a king could simply have one of his subject’s tongues removed.

“Dangerous? Why is it dangerous?” she whispered.

He shot Barthar a warning glare before turning to her.

“A transition period is always difficult, perhaps somewhat more so in this case because of the circumstances, but there is no cause for concern. Everything is settling down. Remember that even Grabon sent a message saying there was no cause for concern about the Western Isles.” A brief message with no explanation and they hadn’t been able to raise him since, but she didn’t need to know all the details.

“And as for the ball,” he added, looking back at Barthar, “I would be far less distracted with her at my side.”

“Really?” she asked hopefully. “Because I wouldn’t mind seeing more of the castle.”

Guilt immediately swept over him. He’d been perfectly happy to keep her to himself and hadn’t considered the fact that she might be feeling trapped. Had he just given her a nicer dungeon?

“A ball sounds kind of fun,” she added. “That is—no one is going to think less of you because I’m human will they?”

Fortunately, this time Barthar kept his mouth shut.

“On the contrary,” he said firmly. “They will be jealous that I am with the most beautiful female present.”

She smiled and blushed, and her arousal started to perfume the air.

“Leave us,” he ordered.

Barthar gave a long-suffering sigh and obeyed. As soon as the door closed behind him, he smiled down at her.

“Absolutely the most beautiful.” He hooked a finger in her bodice and drew it down to reveal her lush, perfect breasts. Her plump little nipples were already stiff, begging for his touch. “But only I get to see all of your beauty.”

Her eyes went heavy with pleasure as he teased a taut pink point but she shook her head.

“You haven’t seen all of it.”

He hadn’t removed her lower clothing either, keeping that fragile barrier in place. But his mouth betrayed him once again.

“Perhaps I will unveil it tomorrow night.”

She gave an excited little bounce, tormenting his aching codix, but then she kissed him and he abandoned thoughts of tomorrow for the pleasures of today.

CHAPTER TEN

“Do you really think it looks all right?” Unity asked anxiously, turning in front of the mirror.

“You look beautiful and the dress is perfect, even if I do say so myself,” Nara said firmly.

Nara was the seamstress Cronan had found to make her dress and she’d worked miracles, especially given the short time frame. The dress really was perfect. Long strips of heavy blue brocade fell from her waist to her ankles, parting when she moved to reveal a sheer underlayer of pale blue silk that showed teasing glimpses of her hips and legs. The extremely snug and extremely low-cut bodice was also made from the brocade, with the pale blue edging just managing to conceal her nipples. Nara had assured her it was the latest style but most Farlain females had considerably less cleavage.

“Are you sure it’s not too low?” she asked again, trying to tug the fabric higher.

“It’s just right. Now stop that.”

Nara lightly smacked her fingers, then immediately looked horrified.

“I am very sorry for overstepping my boundaries, Lady Unity. Please don’t tell King Cronan.”

“Of course I won’t tell him, but he wouldn’t mind. I’m not some precious noble.”

Nara didn’t look convinced, but she murmured her thanks before urging Unity to sit down in front of the mirror.

“You just need a few more touches.”

Nara quickly arranged her hair in an elaborate updo, then tucked small sparkling gems in the dark strands.

“Where did those come from?”

“The king, of course. Also these.”

Matching bracelets were placed on both of her arms, along with a small sparkling anklet around each ankle.

“There is a necklace as well but he would prefer that you not wear it.”

She wasn’t surprised—his fascination with her neck hadn’t faded.

“That’s fine. This is more than enough.”

Certainly more jewelry than she’d ever worn, along with the most elaborate dress. The woman looking back at her from the mirror looked like a stranger, but a happy, confident stranger. Hopefully knowing that she looked the part would make the evening easier. In spite of her excitement about the ball, butterflies were turning somersaults in her stomach.

The look on Cronan’s face when she joined him in the living room helped calm them.

“You look stunning, little one. Absolutely perfect.”

“You look pretty good yourself.”

He was wearing an elaborate robe in the same deep blue as her gown but shot through with glittering gold threads. He looked magnificent, but he didn’t look like her Cronan. In fact, he reminded her uneasily of Ulmat. But then he smiled, golden eyes gleaming and she relaxed. No matter what he was wearing, he was still her Cronan.

But is he mine, she wondered as he took her hand and escorted her through the door and down a long corridor. She knew he liked her body and she was convinced he liked her mind as well. He was kind and protective and thoughtful, not to mention sexy as hell, but was she more than just a companion? More than someone to spend time with until he found his true mate?

Her mouth trembled at the thought and he immediately stopped.

“What’s wrong?”

“Just nervous, I guess.”

“There is no need to be. I don’t expect it to happen but if someone should behave badly towards you, you have only to tell me. There is plenty of room in the dungeons.”

His teasing amused her and she smiled up at him. At least she hoped he was teasing.

When they arrived at the huge double doors leading into the ballroom, the herald gave her an uncertain look.

“The Lady Unity,” Cronan said firmly.

“Yes, sire. If you will step this way—”

“We will enter together.”

“But… Yes, sire.”

The herald bowed then threw open the doors to reveal a large room with a tall arched ceiling and stained-glass windows lining both sides. Elaborate flower arrangements perfumed the air and huge chandeliers sparkled overhead.

“His Royal Majesty, King Cronan, and the Lady Unity.”

A shocked silence fell over the ballroom and she suddenly felt as if everyone present was staring at them.

“Courage, little one,” he murmured, tucking her hand more tightly in his. “All you need to do is smile.”

She nodded and pasted a smile on her face, hoping it didn’t look too insincere. It grew easier when someone smiled back and then someone else, and she gradually relaxed. Cronan kept her at his side as he circulated amongst the crowd. He always introduced her but thankfully no one seemed to expect her to take part in the conversation. She listened instead, paying attention to who seemed sincere and who smiled a little too often.

They made one full circuit of the room before he turned to her, eyes glittering.

“And now we dance.”

“Dance? You never mentioned that. I don’t know any of your dances. What if I trip?”

“All you have to do is follow my lead and I know you can do that.”

She choked back a laugh and then he was whirling her across the floor. Their bodies fit together there as easily as they did in bed and she quickly relaxed into the dance, simply enjoying herself. She was sorry when it ended, even more so when several Farlain females immediately came rushing over.

“May I have the next dance, King Cronan?”

The first speaker was a tall, slender female who completely ignored Unity.

“No,” Cronan said baldly. “I am only dancing with Unity tonight.”

The female shot her a malicious glance.

“How… primitive.”

Cronan bared his teeth in what could not be called a smile.

“Unless you really want to see my primitive side, you will apologize. Immediately.”

The female muttered a hasty, insincere apology and Unity gave her an equally insincere smile in return before turning back to Cronan.

“Oh, look, the musicians are ready to play again,” she said cheerfully, smiling up at him. “Shall we?”

He laughed, his face relaxing, and escorted her back onto the floor.

“Is it always like that?”

“Always,” he sighed. “You would have thought they would have realized by now that I’m not interested.”

“Really?”

“Really. There is only one female I’m interested in.” He pulled her closer, closer than she suspected was proper. “Very interested in.”

“The one you’re unveiling later tonight?” she whispered, smiling when he almost missed a step.

The rest of the ball was much the same. Most of the people were polite, at least to her face. A few of them even seemed genuinely interested in her. Lady Morgan was one of them, an older female with deep bronze skin, improbably vivid gold hair, an astonishing array of jewels, and a completely unfiltered tongue.

Despite her bluntness, her acerbic sense of humor made Unity smile, and she found herself enjoying her company. Cronan left her there for a few minutes when one of his councilors insisted he had something important to discuss.

“A highly unlikely prospect,” Lady Morgan muttered. “The only thing important to Bulmar is his next meal.”

She laughed. The councilor had been on the rotund side.

“And you, my dear? What is important to you?”

“King Cronan’s happiness.”

Lady Morgan snorted.

“Polite but doubtful.”

“His happiness is important to me,” she said honestly, much more than she’d ever anticipated. Her proud, stubborn warrior had worked his way into her heart. Her breath caught at the realization, but Lady Morgan waved an impatient hand.

“I’m sure it is, but I’m asking about you. What is important to you?”

“I suppose—feeling useful. I also like numbers and solving problems with numbers. They are much easier to understand than people.”

“Really?” Lady Morgan’s eyes glittered. “I’ve always found most people painfully transparent. Just as I suspected that there was more to you than just a pretty face. Numbers, hmm?” She hummed thoughtfully for a moment, then nodded decisively and rose. “There’s someone I want you to meet.”

“But Cronan—”

“Is quite capable of finding you. Come along now.”

Somewhat helplessly she obeyed. The person Lady Morgan wanted her to meet was a very young male who was in the process of setting up his own business. His concept was good, but he clearly hadn’t considered all the financial variables involved. She was walking him through them when Cronan appeared, scowling.

“Did your meeting not go well?” she asked.

“It was fine,” he snapped. “I think it’s time to leave.”

“All right. Just give me a few minutes to finish up.”

“No, no, that’s fine,” the young lord said quickly, shooting a nervous glance at Cronan.

“Are you sure? We haven’t really covered how to account for the material costs.”

“I’m sure.”

“Okay, but if you change your mind, I’d be happy to go over them or any other questions you have.”

She waved a hasty goodbye to Lady Morgan who smiled gleefully as Cronan practically dragged her out of the ballroom.

“What on earth is wrong with you?” she demanded as soon as they left.

“I do not like seeing you talking so intimately with another male,” he snapped.

“Intimately? With that boy?”

“That boy comes from one of the oldest families on this planet, and he is extremely wealthy in his own right.”

“Well, he won’t be for long if he doesn’t learn more about business,” she said, and he growled. She gave him a shocked look. “Are you jealous?”

“I am jealous of any male who draws your attention, especially since your neck is bare and unmarked.”

“My neck? What’s my neck got to do with anything?”

By this time they’d reached their quarters. He hurried her inside, slammed the door, and pressed her up against the wall, his eyes blazing as he looked at her neck, but he didn’t answer her question.

“If you don’t like my neck bare, why did you ask me not to wear a necklace?”

“Not like it?” He groaned, and leaned down, tracing his mouth from under her ear to the top of her shoulder. “I am obsessed with your neck. With the thought of kissing it, tasting it, biting it.”

“Biting it? You mean like a vampire?”

Her voice came out as a breathless squeak.

“No. Like a mate.”

“A mate?”

She suddenly remembered noticing that a number of the females at the ball had circular marks on their necks. She’d wondered about it but assumed it was some kind of fashion statement.

“Is that why those females had tattoos on their necks?”

“Not tattoos, bites.”

His big body pressed her tighter against the wall as his mouth kept working at her neck, sucking at her, little nips interspersed with soothing kisses and licks. She groaned and arched against him and his hand slid down her side, huge and hot through one of the sheer panels. It was the closest he’d come to touching her below the waist with his hand and she shuddered.

“You were going to unveil me,” she whispered.

“I know I should get you out of this dress,” he growled. “But it’s so fucking perfect, you’re so fucking perfect. So soft and sweet and delicious.”

Despite his words, he fisted his hand in the delicate fabric and ripped it away, leaving her hip bare to his touch. She whimpered as he caressed her bare skin, but then his hand slid up to her stomach, his fingers brushing the underside of her breast and then back down again to her hip.

“Cronan,” she begged.

“Is there something you want, little one?”

“Yes. Please. Your mouth on my nipples.”

“You mean these sweet little peaks?”

He barely brushed them with his thumb but she was so sensitized that the single touch rocketed through her. She was about to tear the dress off herself when he yanked her bodice down to bare her aching breasts. She moaned in relief when his mouth closed around her nipple and he sucked hard. She shuddered again, but it wasn’t enough.

“Please,” she gasped.

He pulled back, studying her face, as his hand slid down to her hip and then curved over her thigh. He was so close to her aching clit that her body quivered.

“Touch me, please.”

His eyes were golden flames as he stroked her thigh, his thumb just brushing her mound. She looked at him pleadingly and he groaned.

“You are too tempting, little one.”

He sucked her nipple back into his hot mouth, his tongue swirled around the distended tip. Her hands went to his head, holding him to her, and he made a growling sound low in his chest. When he released her breast, his eyes were still blazing, but with a different intensity.

“Tell me.”

“What?” she gasped.

“How much you like what I’m doing to you.”

“I love what you’re doing to me. I want your mouth on me.”

He lowered his head again, concentrating on her aching nipple as he finally touched her swollen folds.

“So wet,” he breathed against her nipple, sliding his finger back and forth.

“Yes. So wet. For you. Only you.”

“Only me, little one,” he agreed, his voice deep and fierce. “My female.”

He circled her entrance, then thrust his finger deep inside, shockingly thick and perfect, and she groaned in pleasure, clinging to him as he stroked slowly in and out. She muttered a protest when he withdrew it, but then he went to his knees and ripped the rest of her skirt away. His mouth closed over her clit, hot and demanding. One stroke of that hot, rough tongue and she shattered, the climax consuming her in waves of pleasure as he licked and sucked her through it.

“So fucking delicious,” he growled when her shudders finally stopped and he lifted his mouth.

He stood, holding her trembling body against his as he carried her into their bedroom and gently removed the tattered remnants of her dress before placing her on the bed. She smiled up at him, sleepy and satisfied.

“That was amazing.”

“It’s not over yet, little one. Now that I have unveiled your perfect body I intend to lick and touch and admire every delectable inch.”

He came down over her as he spoke, and she discovered she wasn’t quite so sleepy after all.

CHAPTER ELEVEN

Cronan smiled as he woke. Unity’s body was sprawled over his, her perfect naked body—soft and warm and absolutely delicious. He spent half the night feasting between her thighs and he’d only stopped because she was so exhausted.

But she’s had a chance to sleep now, he thought, skating his hand down over that ripe, luscious ass. Perhaps I should bite her there. No one would see it, but he would know it was there, know that she bore his mark. His codix flexed eagerly at the thought but he reluctantly dismissed it. Traditional location or not, it would still be a mating bite and they needed to discuss their future first.

He thought—prayed—that she would agree to remain with him.

She stirred, her cheek rubbing against his chest.

“Morning,” she mumbled sleepily, her voice husky and adorable.

“Good morning. Did you sleep well?”

“I’m not sure sleep is the right word. Passed out from pleasure?”

“You deserved every minute of that pleasure.”

“Hmm.” She sat up, straddling his thighs, and smiled at him. “And now that you’ve seen, and kissed, and touched, every inch of me, isn’t it time for me to have the same pleasure?”

His codix flexed beneath her ass but he was distracted by the sight of her naked breasts, the lingering redness from his mouth still visible. He had come so close to biting her but he’d never broken the skin. He reached up and caressed her neck, also showing the marks of his possession.

“I didn’t say I was finished—you just fell asleep first.”

“You can finish after I get my turn.” She reached down between them, stroking his still cloth-covered codix. “Wouldn’t this feel even better on your bare skin?”

“Fuck yes.” But he knew his limitations. Once his codix entered her, he would be unable to resist giving her a mating bite. And if he stripped off his clothes it was almost inevitable that he would enter her. “We need to talk first.”

She gave him a playful pout.

“Why does that always sound so ominous?”

Before he could respond, the control panel next to his bed chimed. Fuck. He reluctantly lifted her free before he reached over and hit the button.

“What?” he growled.

“Lady Astra wishes to see you,” Rabat said meekly, and he groaned.

Bulmar had also raised the prospect the previous night. Although he’d informed the other male that he had no interest in speaking to her, she clearly hadn’t accepted his refusal.

“What does she want?”

“I don’t know, Your Majesty. She only said it was a matter of extreme urgency.”

He really did not want to deal with her, but she retained a number of connections at court and a small but loyal band of followers.

“I suppose I can spare her a few minutes,” he agreed reluctantly.

“Are you willing to revoke her exile, or will you make the journey to see her?”

Fuck. The trip to her estate and back would occupy half a day. He didn’t want to waste his time on the journey but he was not about to let her return to the capital.

“I’ll go there. Arrange for a carriage—no, make that a parval.” The riding beast would be faster.

“Yes, sire.”

He ended the call and turned back to Unity, watching him curiously.

“What do you think she wants?”

“I don’t know, but I’m sure it isn’t anything good.”

“I can’t help feeling sorry for her. It must have been terrible being married to Ulmat.”

“Don’t. The two of them deserved each other. She’s cruel, petty, and vindictive. She also did her best to make my mother’s life a living hell, not because she genuinely cared that Ulmat had strayed but because my mother was gentle and beautiful and admired.”

“Then why are you going?”

“She could still cause trouble,” he admitted reluctantly. “Barthar thinks we should have eliminated her.”

Her eyes widened.

“You mean killed her?”

“Yes, but it was a step I didn’t want to take.”

“Of course you didn’t.” She leaned over and pressed a sweet little kiss against his mouth. “You’re such an honorable male.”

He didn’t feel honorable. He wanted to forget about Astra, forget about his kingdom, forget about everything except his female. If only he could lock the doors and shut out everything except the sweet, delicious female in his arms. Her luscious body pressed against his, almost unbearable tempting as he pulled her closer, returning her kiss. She quivered as he nipped lightly at her bottom lip and gave him a dazed look.

“Do you really have to go?”

“I’m afraid so,” he said regretfully. “But I will return as quickly as possible.”

She sighed as she pulled back.

“To go to more meetings?”

“Yes.” He hesitated, remembering his thoughts the previous night. “Is there somewhere you wish to go while I am busy?”

“It would be nice to see some of the other gardens.”

That seemed safe enough, especially now that everyone was aware of her presence.

“I’ll have Barthar escort you.”

She rolled her eyes.

“Is he going to be all grouchy and impatient about it?”

“Probably,” he admitted. “But I trust him with your safety.”

“I suppose that’s a reasonable compromise. As long as he knows I’m not going to let him hurry me.”

“I’ll make sure he understands that.” He gave her a quick kiss, then rose and headed for the bathing room. “I’d better go and get ready.”

“Would you like my assistance?” she asked, just as he had once asked her. “I could wash your back.”

And the rest of his body. His codix stiffened at the delightful thought, but he shook his head.

“Stop trying to tempt me, little one, or I’ll never make it out of this room.”

She laughed.

“That’s not exactly a deterrent.”

He groaned but continued to his solitary shower.

Less than an hour later he was riding out of the city, a full squad of warriors behind him in formal armor. He wasn’t concerned that Astra had planned some type of secret attack, but Barthar had pointed out that it wouldn’t hurt to remind her of his current position.

“Especially since I won’t be with you,” he added, scowling.

“Your job is far more important. I am trusting you to protect Unity.”

Barthar regarded him thoughtfully, still frowning.

“Have you told her she is your mate yet?”

“No.”

“‘A timid heart never won a worthy mate,’” his second quoted.

“Does that mean you consider her worthy now?” he asked sardonically.

“Yes,” Barthar said immediately, surprising him. “She has proven herself to be both kind and clever, but most importantly, she makes you happy. You deserve that happiness, my friend.”

“Then take care of my happiness while I’m gone.”

Although Barthar had promised, Cronan couldn’t help wishing that Unity were at his side instead. Not only would he have enjoyed her company, he thought she would enjoy the ride. The green rolling hills of Farlain shimmered in the warm sun, the hedgerows bright with flowers, and the sky was a flawless blue.

He decided that once the initial work of the transition had been completed, he would take her to his home. Magda would spoil her and he had no doubt Porthan would flirt outrageously with her. His weapons master had always had an eye for a pretty face. Those pleasant thoughts occupied him until they reached Astra’s estates.

Her father had built the elaborate villa which had replaced the previous traditional manor, incurring a great deal of debt in the process. That debt had been settled on Astra’s marriage to Ulmat. The fact that she had been essentially sold into marriage would have aroused his sympathy except that from what he’d been told, she had manipulated the whole thing, determined to be queen.

As he rode into the courtyard and dismounted, two uniformed servants came rushing out, adorned in her signature green. He ordered them to provide for his squad then strode into the house. More servants awaited, offering him water for washing away the dust of the journey and wine and sweet cakes. He ignored them all.

“Take me to your mistress.”

Astra was waiting for him in a pavilion in the garden, the walls draped with green silk, reclining on a velvet couch that was easily wide enough for two. Green gown, green cushions, green watered silk curtains—everything in her world was tainted with her poisonous color.

Admittedly it suited her, a striking contrast to her golden skin, and he could be objective enough to recognize that she was beautiful, in a cold, icy way. It was not a beauty he responded to, even though her sheer gown revealed a great deal of her slender body. She couldn’t be foolish enough to think she could seduce him, could she?

“What do you want, Lady Astra?” he asked impatiently, his tone just this side of rude.

“How abrupt. Would you not care to share a glass of wine first?”

She patted the place next to her on the couch invitingly, but he remained firmly in place.

“I do not intend to stay that long. Why did you want to see me?”

She sighed, casting her eyes down in mock shyness.

“To tell you that I am with child.”

The ground practically reeled under his feet. It was not physically impossible—she had still been in her teens when she married Ulmat—but she hadn’t produced a child during their marriage. Why would she claim to be pregnant now?

“I don’t believe you,” he said bluntly.

A quickly veiled anger crossed her face before she gave him a soulful look.

“I assure you it’s quite true.” She sniffed delicately. “Poor, dear Ulmat. He would have been so pleased.”

“Are you trying to make me believe it is his child?”

Her eyes widened innocently.

“Of course. Who else would be the father?”

“One of your numerous other lovers,” he said dryly, ignoring her outraged gasp. “You do realize that parentage can be tested? By offworld sources,” he added when her eyes gleamed.

That wiped the complacent look off her face, her eyes narrowing.

“You wouldn’t.”

“I most certainly would. If the child is Ulmat’s—which I highly doubt—I am willing to act as regent, but I will not accept the child without proof.”

The frustration on her face would have amused him if he hadn’t been so irritated by her schemes. But then the annoyance disappeared, replaced by a slow, seductive smile as she rose and came over to him. Her heavy perfume surrounded him as she put a graceful hand on his arm.

“What if it were your child? He would add legitimacy to your claim and you could enjoy all the… benefits the king enjoyed.”

She stroked his arm in a manner she undoubtedly considered enticing, but he just felt nauseous. He took a hasty step back, leaving her hand hanging in midair.

“My claim is perfectly legitimate and I have absolutely no interest in those so-called benefits. If you are in fact pregnant, then I suggest you look to the father for help.” His voice turned low and dangerous. “And Astra, if I hear even the faintest rumor that Ulmat is the father of your child, you will no longer be confined to your estates, you will be removed from the planet entirely. Do you understand?”

She cast him a look of acute dislike, but she nodded abruptly.

“Good. Then there is no need for any further communication between us.”

He turned on his heel and left.

CHAPTER TWELVE

Unity drifted awake, surprised to find Cronan still sleeping. He almost always woke first, his big body conditioned to rising at dawn. She rolled over, taking the opportunity to study his sleeping face—relaxed but not peaceful.

She hadn’t seen him immediately after he returned from visiting Lady Astra, although he’d sent a message to Barthar to let her know he was back. The older male had still been accompanying her on her tour of the gardens. As she’d predicted, he’d been impatient and irritable, but despite that he let her explore the numerous gardens.

She’d been shocked by how many there were, from the formal landscaped gardens with flowers planted in elaborate patterns to a series of water gardens that trickled down to an artificial canal. He even softened enough to tell her that most of them had been planned by Cronan’s grandmother, and his grandfather had continued the work after her death.

“He told me Alric planted the balcony and the garden off our quarters as well.”

“Yes. The queen did not have an easy time giving birth to Ulmat and never really recovered. Because she spent so much time in their rooms, he wanted her to be happy there and brought the plants to her.”

“Cronan said she died young,” she said softly.

“Less than a year after Ulmat was born.”

“She was a great lady,” a voice interrupted and Barthar whirled, a hand on his weapon.

An elderly male stood there, a long rake in his hand.

“You worried about this dangerous weapon, boy?” he asked, shaking the rake at Barthar.

Both the question and the fact that he acted as if Barthar were a foolish youth made her stifle a laugh. Barthar didn’t share her amusement, glowering at the other male.

“And who are you?”

“Dortral. Gardener. In case it’s not obvious.”

He shook the rake again, and this time she couldn’t prevent herself from laughing. Dortral grinned at her.

“Heard you admiring the gardens.”

“They’re beautiful,” she said sincerely. “Barthar has been showing me around but he doesn’t know much about the plants.”

The gardener sniffed disdainfully.

“Warriors are always too busy thinking with their swords to pay any attention to the things that matter.”

“I do not—”

Ignoring the start of Barthar’s outraged protest, Dortral smiled at her again.

“I’ll show you around.”

“Oh, that would be wonderful. And if I’m with you, Barthar can get back to… whatever it is he does.”

“I’m not leaving you,” he said immediately, and he hadn’t, despite his obvious boredom and Dortral’s insults.

Even after he’d told her that Cronan had come back, he remained at her side until she returned to their rooms, her arms full of the flowers Dortral had cut for her.

“Thank you for escorting me, but I’m sure there are other things you would rather be doing,” she said as she started arranging the flowers in the vases Robat had brought for her.

He hesitated.

“You will remain here in your quarters?”

“I promise.”

“Very well, but if you decide to make another visit to that annoying male, send for me. Do not go on your own.”

“I won’t. Now go on.” She made a shooing motion. “Go sharpen swords or boss some poor warrior around or whatever you’d rather be doing.”

A reluctant smile curved his lips.

“Actually, I have to review some trade agreements. I’d almost rather return to the gardens.”

He didn’t look enthusiastic about the prospect, but her ears immediately perked up.

“Trade agreements? Do you want me to take a look?”

“Would you not prefer to rest?”

“Because we went for a walk? Not at all. I’d much rather make myself useful.”

He still looked doubtful, but in the end he’d agreed. She’d needed his help regarding the actual goods being traded, but the terms were easy enough to understand. They were on the last one when Cronan returned late that afternoon, looking tired and irritated.

“Why are you still here?” he asked, frowning first at Barthar and then at the papers scattered around the dining area.

“We’re going over trade agreements,” she said cheerfully. “Either Ulmat was a complete idiot or these merchants think you are. They’ve tried to include all kinds of ridiculous terms.”

“Your ma… your companion has pointed out a number of places where we would be at a disadvantage.” Barthar gave her the most approving look she’d ever received from him. “Her assistance has been invaluable.”

“You were supposed to be guarding her, not making her take over your duties,” Cronan growled.

“He did nothing of the kind,” she said quickly as Barthar bristled. “I practically had to threaten him before he’d let me help. And I really wanted to help,” she added. “It makes me feel like I’m part of things.”

Something changed in his expression, and he jerked his head at Barthar.

“Leave us.” Then he sighed. “Forgive my rudeness. Thank you for looking after Unity.”

Barthar shook his head, but grinned.

“It was my pleasure. Mostly.”

Cronan escorted him to the door and returned just as she finished tidying up the various documents.

“Did you enjoy your day, little one?”

She tilted her head to one side, considering.

“I did, although I missed you. Did you enjoy yours?”

“Not at all.”

His voice was hoarse, his eyes focused on her neck, and she shivered as she remembered all the attention he’d lavished on it the previous night. Her nipples were already thrusting against her gown and his nostrils flared as he came stalking towards her.

“I have a feeling it’s about to improve,” he growled as he picked her up and placed her on the table.

Then her skirts were around her waist, his mouth was on her clit, and her climax was racing through her. He didn’t stop there, making her climax twice more before he insisted on feeding her.

“How was Lady Astra?” she asked when they finished eating. “What did she want?”

He shrugged a massive shoulder.

“To cause trouble, but I think I made it quite clear she would not succeed. Now tell me about your day.”

She did, making him laugh when she described Dortral’s attitude towards Barthar. And then he’d carried her to bed and spent a long, delicious time worshiping her neck and her breasts and her pussy until she was completely limp with satisfaction. But he hadn’t let her touch him in return.

He was still deeply asleep, and she took the opportunity to run her hands over his broad shoulders and down the muscled ridges of his stomach. She dipped lower, her fingers skating along the edge of his waistband. His codix had stiffened at her touch, the head just beneath the edge of the waistband. She slipped a cautious finger beneath the cloth and it seemed to leap towards her, wide and hot and already slick.

Was he as golden here as he was over the rest of his body? Or perhaps darker and more intense? I could just take a quick peek. Unable to resist any longer, she carefully unfastened the top button, but he was so hard, so ready that his entire erection immediately sprang free.

His massive and not at all human erection. The shaft was long and straight, the same thick width from base to crown. His codix was darker than the rest of his skin, edging into bronze, but a glittering line of gold swirled around the entire shaft, following a ridge that spiraled from base to tip. She touched it cautiously and discovered that it was both hot and slightly rough. The thought of it moving inside her, rubbing against her, made her clit pulse with excitement.

His cinnamon leather scent was even stronger here and she lowered her mouth, about to taste him, when his hand clamped down on her wrist, holding her in place.

“What are you doing?” he growled, and when she looked up, his eyes were blazing gold.

“Touching you.” She breathed the words across his codix and saw it respond. “Tasting you.”

The tip of her tongue could just reach him and she flicked it lightly across that golden line.

“You said you did not want to do this.”

“I said I didn’t want to be forced to do this. But I definitely want to taste you.”

“I should not.”

He sounded as if he were trying to convince himself, and she smiled up at him.

“Yes, you should. It’s only fair. You’ve tasted me over and over. Can’t I have one little taste of you?”

She flicked her tongue against him again and he groaned, but then his grip on her wrist eased. Taking it for permission, she leaned forward and licked him again. God, he tasted delicious. He shuddered as she went back for more. She licked her way down the thick shaft, then nibbled her way back up. Emboldened by his guttural moans, she swirled her tongue over the wide head and tried to take as much as possible in her mouth.

He swore and reached for her.

“Is something wrong?” she asked, giving him a worried look. His face was taut with strain.

“If you continue that, this will be over very quickly.”

Oh. She smiled and flicked her tongue across his head again.

“Maybe I want to be tasting you when that happens.”

He swore, then groaned when she closed her mouth over him again, taking him as deep as she could.

“Even your mouth is fucking perfect,” he growled, his hand tangling in her hair.

She hummed her appreciation for the compliment, her hands sliding around his shaft to grasp what she couldn’t take into her mouth. The taste of him intensified, sweet and spicy against her tongue. When she traced her hand along that golden line, his hips bucked, thrusting his codix against the back of her throat and making her cough. Instantly he withdrew, cursing, but she didn’t let go of him.

“I’m not finished.”

“But you…”

“I’m fine. I want to taste you, all of you. Don’t stop.”

He still looked doubtful but when she took him back into her mouth he started moving again—slowly, deliberately, letting her adjust to the rhythm as he pumped into her. She could feel him shuddering as delicious drops from his codix began flowing down her throat.

The more he gave her, the more she wanted and she tightened her grip on his shaft, stroking and squeezing as his pace increased, becoming less deliberate. His hand fisted in her hair, his breathing coming in harsh pants.

“Fuck. I can’t hold on much longer, little one,” he said hoarsely, but she only sucked harder.

His hips were moving in earnest now, his codix deep in her mouth, his fingers digging into her scalp.

“Now. Fuck. Now,” he growled, and hot spiciness flooded her mouth, his codix pulsing against her tongue over and over as she swallowed eagerly, doing her best to catch every single drop.

When he finally stopped, she gave him a last gentle lick, then sat back and gave him a smug smile.

“I like tasting you. You should have let me do it sooner.”

“Fucking perfect,” he said as he tugged her up on top of him.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

Three days later, Cronan sighed with contentment as he cradled Unity against his chest. She’d woken him again in what she called “the best way” and he couldn’t argue. Her mouth on his codix was almost as delightful as his mouth on her sweet little cunt. He knew having his codix buried inside her would be even better, but they still hadn’t taken that next step.

Despite his conviction that he wouldn’t be able to control himself once they were both naked, he’d managed. Barely. The previous night he’d actually gone as far as lodging the head of his codix against her small entrance before he’d come to his senses. She had not been happy when he pulled away.

“Why do you keep doing that?” she huffed.

“I don’t want to hurt you.”

It was true—he didn’t want to hurt her and she was very small in comparison to him—but it wasn’t the complete truth. Barthar was right—he had a timid heart. Losing a bastard like Ulmat had devastated his mother, but losing Unity would destroy him.

She studied him thoughtfully with those clear blue eyes but somewhat to his surprise, she let it drop and gave him a teasing smile.

“Then I guess I’ll have to be satisfied with a finger, or maybe two.”

He’d gladly obeyed, but as her climax swept over her and her tight little channel milked his fingers, he knew that this couldn’t continue forever. He had to find the courage to tell her how he felt and pray that she would agree to stay with him forever.

The rest of his life was proceeding as smoothly as possible under the circumstances. Astra had made no further attempts to contact him, nor had he heard any rumors about her supposed child or its parentage. Most of the nobles had settled into a cautious acceptance of the new regime. Several of them were even enthusiastic about his plans to both introduce more technology and allow more trade.

Thinking about those trading prospects made him smile. There had been some very shocked and disappointed merchants when they realized that he—or more specifically Unity—had discovered the unfavorable terms they’d tried to insert in their agreements. Since then he’d had Barthar go over all such agreements with her, and his second had been surprisingly happy to do so.

“She knows more than either of us,” the other male admitted. “You might consider letting her attend some of these meetings, once she’s more comfortable with the written language.”

He approved of the idea—but then he approved of anything that allowed them to spend more time together. He’d even joined her in the gardens on several occasions, where the old gardener who’d befriended her showed absolutely no respect for his position. He wouldn’t have permitted it from anyone else, but Unity liked the old male so he let it slide. He’d even begun to enjoy Dortral’s outspoken commentary.

“Why are you smiling?” she asked, sliding her hand across his chest and bringing him back to their bedroom.

“I was thinking of your annoying friend.”

She laughed.

“I take it you mean Dortral? I’m glad you like him too.”

“I didn’t say that,” he grumbled, but she only smiled as her hand slid lower, teasing the head of his codix.

“How long do we have before you have to leave?”

“Long enough,” he growled, rolling over on top of her.

Her eyes widened, but her legs came up to circle his waist, leaving her sweet cunt, still slick and hot from their previous play, pressed against his rapidly growing codix. He knew it was a dangerous position, but fuck, it felt good. It felt even better when she rocked against him, those wet, swollen folds sliding along his shaft.

He couldn’t resist dropping his head to her neck, sucking lightly at the fragrant skin, while his hand came up to tug at a stiff little nipple.

“I can’t get enough of you,” he murmured against her neck. “I don’t think I’ll ever get enough of you.”

Her body went still and when he lifted his head, her eyes were bright with tears.

“Are you all right?”

“Did you mean that?” she whispered, and all his doubts disappeared.

“Yes, I love you, little one.”

Despite the tears slipping down her cheeks, she gave him a radiant smile.

“I feel the same way. I love you too, Cronan. I love you so much.”

She loved him. Relief, joy, and pride poured through him as he claimed her mouth in a long, passionate kiss. His female. His mate.

Her arms tightened around him as she clung to him, returning his kiss with equal passion as she started moving against him again. This time he helped her, raising her hips and placing his codix at her entrance.

“Are you sure?”

“Very sure. I want—”

His communicator beeped, and dread trickled down his spine. The devices were still rare and expensive and he’d ordered Barthar not to use them unless absolutely necessary. She knew that as well and let him go, giving him an anxious look as he reached for the communicator.

“What’s wrong?” he demanded as soon as he answered.

“Trouble at the spaceport,” Barthar said grimly. “At least two ships are involved and they have a lot of firepower. If they take over the port, they can block all communication with the rest of the empire.”

“On my way.” He ended the call and turned to her. “I don’t want to leave you, but I have to go, little one.”

“I know. I heard.” Her eyes were wide and anxious, but she did her best to smile at him. “Be careful.”

“Always.”

He kissed her far too quickly and disappeared into his wardrobe to change. When he emerged, she had her knees drawn up to her chest, her arms wrapped around them, the same way she’d been sitting in her cell. His heart ached at the thought that she might be as scared as she had been then, but it was his duty. He had to go.

“I’ll be back as soon as I can so we can finish what we started,” he promised. “I love you.”

“I love you too. Hurry back.”

He kissed her again, then strode quickly out of the room.

His warriors were already assembling, forming a neat orderly unit, and he nodded approvingly before going to join Barthar. His second was in full armor, his weapons at hand.

“I hope you will leave this to us, sire. It wouldn’t surprise me if it were an ambush designed to draw you away.”

“No. This is my kingdom.” He’d never felt it as strongly as he did right then.

“I know.” Barthar sighed. “Can we at least compromise on finding a closer view point rather than you joining the actual combat?”

As much as he hated not leading his warriors into battle, Barthar’s suggestion was a better option. He shuddered to think what would happen to Farlain if anything happened to him. Because there was no clear line of succession, the nobles would fight amongst themselves for control and the people would suffer. He had to do his best to stay alive—for his kingdom and his mate.

There would be a line of succession if I had a child, he thought and, not for the first time, the image of Unity, round and glowing with their child popped into his mind. Astra’s failed scheme had originally given him the idea but he’d been thinking about it more and more, and it continued to haunt him as he and Barthar found an observation point above the spaceport.

Reports of the battle were streaming in, but Barthar shook his head.

“Something’s wrong. And before you ask, no, I don’t know exactly what’s wrong but something feels off.”

He reviewed the reports as well, then frowned thoughtfully. He almost wished Unity were with them. If there was a pattern to the enemy’s behavior, he was sure she would spot it. And much more quickly, he thought ruefully when it finally came to him.

“They aren’t using any of their heavier weapons. Why not?”

“Maybe they don’t want to damage the port if they don’t have to.”

It was a logical answer but he couldn’t escape the feeling that he was still missing something. They could have done a considerable amount of damage without rendering the port unusable. His males continued the offensive, driving back the attackers, and finally one of the ships involved in the original attack fled skyward. The other one remained on the launch pad, completely sealed up.

One of the warehouses was completely destroyed, the pad was scattered with debris, and a few fires continued to burn, but the destruction could have been considerably worse. He frowned at the closed ship.

“Are they just going to stay there forever?” Barthar muttered.

“I hope not. We could try some irritants in their air supply to drive them out.”

Barthar’s eyes gleamed. “I know just the one.”

“But not yet. Let’s give them a day or two to consider their options first. For now, I wish to speak to the battle leaders before I return to the castle.”

“And your mate?”

Anticipation rushed through him at the thought, but he had his duties to complete first.

“She isn’t yet, but she will be soon—in spite of your efforts to scare her off.”

Barthar grinned.

“I suppose I’ll have to learn to watch my tongue.”

“Indeed. Now let’s go.”

Despite his hurry to return to her, by the time he’d spoken to the battle leaders and as many of the wounded males as possible, more than two hours had passed. He hurried back to the castle, his codix already throbbing with the need to claim her. But when he returned to their quarters, she was gone.

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

“You don’t honestly think you’re going to get away with this, do you?” Unity demanded furiously.

Robat shrugged, keeping the pressure on the rope he’d used to bind her wrists and then pull her along behind him. She couldn’t believe she’d been foolish enough to let him into their quarters, but she’d simply assumed he had news of the battle.

Instead, he’d stepped inside, given her an oddly terrifying smile, and snapped the rope around her wrists. She’d been so startled that she’d barely had time to react before he was yanking her along the corridor and down into the depths of the castle. She tried to free herself but whatever the rope was made from had molded itself into a tight band around her wrists that she couldn’t remove.

Robat’s previous subservient attitude had completely disappeared, replaced by a cheerful callousness as he forced her along. He didn’t seem concerned about running into anyone—with some justification. Most of the staff were either involved in the battle or monitoring it closely and the corridors were empty.

“On the contrary,” he said complacently. “The foolish male has succumbed to your charms, just as I predicted. I’m sure he will do anything to get you back.”

“What do you mean you predicted?”

“One of the secondary advantages of my occupation is that it soon becomes easy to know what will appeal to a client.”

“Your occupation?” she whispered.

“You didn’t really think that idiot Ulmat was behind the slave ring, did you? We specialize in fulfilling very specific requests, and I excel at satisfying those requests”

She gave him a horrified stare as he continued congratulating himself.

“Not that Cronan was a client, of course, but it was obvious that you were just the type to entice him. As soon as I suggested that he claim you and he agreed, I knew I had him. It was just a matter of time until he realized it. That possessive display at the ball the other night showed the depth of his feelings.” He gave her that horrible smile again, and she shivered. “So I arranged for a… distraction to occupy his time while I collected you, and here we are.”

A distraction? He had people fighting and dying simply to get them out of his way?

“But why?” she asked desperately. “What does he have that you want?”

“Access to a very large number of credits—credits that are rightfully mine. I allowed Ulmat to think that he was in charge so that if anything went wrong, he would be blamed. I just didn’t anticipate that he would be killed in this foolish rebellion, or that he was intelligent enough to hide the funds so well.”

He scowled unhappily. It could have looked petulant, but for some reason it terrified her as well.

“All Cronan has to do is to find the funds and transfer them to me and then he can have you back. If not…” The scowl disappeared as he ran a calculating eye over her and shrugged again. “You should still bring me a fair profit—enough to provide for me while I consider alternatives. I don’t understand this obsession with female mammary glands, but fortunately for my profit margin many males find them appealing and you are amply endowed. You should do very well at auction.”

She shuddered at the thought, and he gave a cold laugh.

“I doubt it will come to that, but perhaps you should hope that your male is as enraptured as I believe him to be.”

She knew he loved her, but would that be enough? And would he be able to find the remaining credits without her help?

A small device on Robat’s belt chimed. He looked down at it, then nodded approvingly.

“Excellent. The battle is coming to an end. Cronan should return soon and find my instructions. In the meantime, we will await developments.”

They were far under the castle now, in a long, winding tunnel carved out of the rock. Although the floor had been smoothed, most of the walls were still raw stone. Several small caves opened into the tunnel and he forced her into one of them. It had obviously been his destination. A folded blanket covered a rocky ledge and a basket contained both food and drink. None of which were for her, she realized as he ordered her to the ground. Since she didn’t see a choice she sat, and he wrapped the end of the rope attached to her wrists around a tall rock pillar.

The next few hours passed incredibly slowly, the monotony broken only by his voice as he talked about all the things he intended to do with his profits, none of them pleasant. He kept checking his device, clearly waiting for something, his frown growing as the time passed.

Her butt and legs were going to sleep due to her cramped position on the hard ground, and she finally asked politely if she could stand. He gave her a suspicious look, but she had done her best to look both helpless and hopeless, and he finally shrugged and agreed. She rose awkwardly to her feet, and stretched a few times, exaggerating her stiffness as she considered escape routes.

The rocky passage disappeared off behind another bend and she had no idea how much farther it extended, or where it would emerge. Would she be better off running for the castle or heading into the unknown? She decided heading back towards the castle would give her the best chance of finding someone to help her, then bided her time, carefully working the rope out from around the pillar.

Once it was free, she asked, politely again, for some water. He’d already consumed most of the contents of the basket but a bottle of water remained. He sighed, but rose and brought it over to her.

“Make this last,” he ordered. “I’m not your servant any longer.”

She nodded meekly, but when he bent over to hand her the bottle, she surged up, angling her elbow into his chin just as Cronan had taught her during their training sessions. He fell back, hitting his head against the pillar in the process, and she darted out into the tunnel. She ignored his muffled cursing and sprinted as fast as she could down the passageway, her bound hands out in front of her.

Still running, she cast a terrified look back over her shoulder, afraid that Robat would be right behind her, but the passage was empty. She swung back around, turned a corner, and ran straight into a massive familiar body. Cronan.

She burst into tears as he wrapped his arms around her with a prayer of thanks.

“Are you all right?” he asked anxiously, running his hands over her body to check for injuries.

“I’m fine,” she sobbed, trying to reach for him with her still bound hands.

He swore at the restraints and immediately cut her free before pulling her back into his arms.

“I’m going to kill that bastard,” he growled. “I was terrified that I would never see you again.”

“Me too.” Another sob escaped.

He shuddered and tightened his grip. “I can’t let you go. I won’t let you go. You are my mate, Unity. My everything.”

The tears were still streaming down her cheeks, but she managed to smile at him.

“I don’t want you to let me go. Now take me home.”

He swung her up into his arms immediately, then grabbed his communication device. He told Barthar that he’d found her, and ordered the search for Robat to continue.

“He was using the old tunnel,” he said. “Have the exit covered and send a team in from that end.”

“Yes, sire. I am relieved that Lady Unity is safe.”

“As am I,” he muttered as he returned the device to his belt and hugged her again.

“How did you find me?”

“Ulmat installed a series of hidden monitors throughout the castle. Robat managed to avoid most of them, but I caught a glimpse of something at the tunnel entrance. I couldn’t be sure it was him, but the tunnel ends close to the spaceport so it seemed logical. I had every available warrior searching for you, but I had to do something other than just sit and wait.”

He shuddered, and she snuggled closer.

“You found me. That’s all that matters now.”

As soon as the doors to their quarters closed behind them, he looked down at her, his eyes blazing gold.

“I need you, my love.”

“I need you too.”

He groaned, and then his lips claimed hers, hard and desperate as he backed her against the wall, his hands tugging at her clothes. As soon as her breasts were free he abandoned her mouth, lifting her up against the wall. She started to protest, then moaned happily as he closed his mouth over a stiff peak, hot and demanding.

She writhed against him, her hunger matching his as he tore at her skirts. And then his hand was between her legs, frantically stroking her clit as he thrust first one, then two thick fingers into her, driving her into a hard fast climax.

“My mate,” he growled.

“Yes. Make me yours, Cronan.”

Her body was still quivering when he replaced his fingers with his codix, pushing demandingly against her. Even slick from her climax, her body resisted the massive shaft but she welcomed the discomfort, wanting everything he could give her as he finally breached the entrance to her body. The burn intensified as he thrust deeper, his codix so wide it almost hurt and then he was all the way inside, his hips flush with her own, and she was so full she could hardly breathe.

He started moving, his speed increasing as her body softened, accepting him, and she cried out as the pleasure began to escalate again. The spiral ridge scraped the inside of her channel with every stroke, the sensations overwhelming her, her climax hovering just out of reach. His mouth dropped to her neck, licking and sucking and sending shivers of pleasure through her body. She tilted her head to give him better access, eager for his mating bite.

He groaned and then he bit her, a brief flash of pain followed by a pleasure so intense that she saw stars, her body shuddering helplessly as her climax swept over her. He gave a guttural cry, his codix growing impossibly harder before he exploded inside her, and then he was covering her mouth with his as his codix pulsed over and over, hot and wet and wonderful. She could taste her blood on his tongue but it only added to the sheer eroticism of the moment.

“Fuck, you’re perfect,” he gasped. “My perfect mate.”

“My perfect king,” she whispered, and he gave a hoarse laugh.

He slid his hands under her ass and carried her to the bedroom, still impaled on his codix. She moaned as he flexed inside her with each step, her excitement already starting to build again, and he grinned.

“This time I will make it last longer,” he promised.

She sighed happily.

“We have all the time in the world for that now.”

“And I intend to savor every moment of it.”

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

Cronan paced restlessly around his study. Unity was with Lady Morgan and he dreaded to think what mischief the older female might be trying to cause this time. But not only did his mate like the other female, he wanted to keep the business he was about to transact a secret until he had a result.

He was standing at the window, drumming his fingers impatiently on the sill, when a sudden chill slid down his spine. He whirled around, his hand on his knife and found the male he’d sent for contemplating him. He hadn’t heard the door open, and even his sensitive sense of smell hadn’t picked up the other male’s presence.

“Impressive,” he said. “It appears you live up to your reputation.”

The bounty hunter shrugged a casual shoulder. He was an Autan, with the characteristic opalescent skin and deep purple hair, but he was much larger than most of his race with a lean, powerful build and an air of controlled power.

“I have certain skills. I understand you are in need of those skills.”

“Yes. Robat, my former steward, attempted to abduct my mate.” His fist clenched at the reminder. “He did not succeed because she is a brave and resourceful female.”

“But you wish to punish him for the attempt?”

“Yes,” he said honestly, “but that is not why I sent for you. Robat was involved in a slavery ring—one that specialized in fulfilling requests for individual slaves. He was using the former king as a front for his efforts. A mistake as it turned out since Ulmat was intelligent enough to hide the profits. My mate has managed to track down a lot of those credits, but there is a great deal of wealth involved and I’m concerned that there will be another attempt.”

“I see.” The other male regarded him thoughtfully. “In that case, there are several options available. The simplest solution would be to simply eliminate the male.”

He was tempted, but…

“That wouldn’t provide any additional information about the slavers.”

“No. Nor would it eliminate the possibility of another member of the ring coming after the credits—if they were aware of the arrangement.”

He nodded.

“It seems likely that they knew. Robat may even have concealed his involvement from the other members and they genuinely believe that Ulmat was the leader. In which case, they might make the same attempt to recover the funds.”

“Then that leaves two other possibilities. I can find the male and question him before I eliminate him. You will have both your answers and your revenge.”

The offer was made in the most casual tone but a sliver of ice slid down Cronan’s spine. The bounty hunter seemed to have no doubt that he could obtain the answers Cronan wanted and he found he didn’t either. The other male’s air of ruthless confidence was quite convincing.

“The third option would be to find him and return him to you, alive and unharmed—more or less—for you to do with as you will. That is, of course, the most problematic option and therefore most expensive.”

“The credits involved are not my main concern.”

He had every intention of using some of the profits from the slavery ring to pay for the job. The irony appealed to him.

“What is your main concern?”

“Bringing an end to this organization. They abducted my mate, tore her away from her life and her home.”

“And brought her to you.”

“To this planet, but not to me. Ulmat had chosen her for himself. The fact that we found each other does not change the horror of the initial act.”

Or his lingering sense of guilt. He truly believed that she loved him, but she hadn’t had any other alternatives. The other male seemed to pick up on his unease.

“You are aware, I assume, that it would be impossible to return her to her planet?”

“I am.” A fact for which he couldn’t help being grateful.

“Are you also aware that the new Emperor has recognized sanctuary planets for those in a similar situation? I believe Sherae is the closest—it’s a pleasant planet with a tropical climate and the king is also mated to a human female. If your mate should wish to explore other options, I could escort her there. For the appropriate price, of course.”

He immediately started to reject the idea, then hesitated. Even though every part of him rebelled at the thought, he should at least give her the option. And if she wanted to go? Then I will go with her. He wouldn’t be the first king to abdicate. Ignoring the resulting wave of guilt, he nodded.

“I will ask her, but if she decides to go I will accompany her. For the appropriate price, of course,” he added dryly.

“Very well. But to return to the original job, what is your preference?”

“I want him alive and I want answers.” He wasn’t sure he had the stomach to wring those answers from the other male, no matter how much he despised him. Battle was one thing, torture was another. “Is there a fourth option? Find him and return him—alive—and then assist in… encouraging him to reveal information.”

“If that is what you wish.” A sudden smile lit the Autan’s face. “And who knows, if he annoys me enough on the voyage, I might even throw in the questioning for free.”

“He prefers to appear meek and harmless, although he is neither,” he warned.

“Such tricks don’t work with me.”

No, he decided, looking at the other male’s face. He didn’t think they would.

“If you wish me to proceed, I charge half up front, half on delivery.”

“All right. How much?”

The sum the bounty hunter named was outrageous by any standards, but he didn’t hesitate.

“Agreed.”

“Good. I will remain here while I conduct my initial research so you will have a few days to decide about accompanying me to Sherae.”

“Thank you. What is your name? Or what should I call you?”

“You may call me Wraith.”

Cronan arranged for the funds to be transferred, and Wraith disappeared as silently as he’d appeared. He resumed his pacing as he waited for Unity to return.

UNITY SMILED HAPPILY as she returned to their quarters. Lady Morgan had invited two other females to tea—an older female and one about her own age. She’d been nervous about meeting other members of the court, but Lady Morgan had, predictably, dismissed her concerns with an impatient wave of her hand.

“Nonsense. No one would dare to insult the future queen.”

“Maybe not to my face,” she said gloomily, and the other female laughed.

“True. But I think you will find Emila and Tarmay pleasant companions.”

She’d been correct. Lady Tarmay was as brisk and matter of fact as Lady Morgan, although somewhat less acerbic, and Emila shy but friendly. Emila was close to her own age, and by the end of the tea they had arranged to go shopping together.

“Assuming the king is willing to let you out of his sight again,” Lady Morgan said dryly, giving the guard standing silently by the door a pointed look.

“He worries,” she said softly, “especially after what happened with Robat.”

“It was his own fault for employing the slimy little male.”

“No, it wasn’t. Robat had everyone fooled,” she protested.

Lady Morgan sniffed.

“He didn’t fool me, but then I suppose one cannot expect wise heads on young shoulders.”

The image that conjured up made her smile and she let the subject drop. She understood Cronan’s concerns well enough not to object to the guard’s presence, although she hoped that he would eventually realize it wasn’t necessary.

The guard bowed politely when she thanked him and assumed his position outside the door to their quarters. Another male stood guard outside the study door. She hadn’t complained about either, although she’d drawn the line when he attempted to place guards in the garden and on the balcony.

“Absolutely not. I want to be outside with my mate without being watched. You have more than enough guards on the other side of the wall.”

He still wasn’t convinced, so she took him out on the balcony then slowly removed her dress. By the time she was naked, his eyes were glowing gold and his codix was thrusting against his pants.

She kneeled in front of him and lightly kissed the tip of his codix through the material.

“We couldn’t do this if there were guards present,” she teased.

“A convincing argument,” he said hoarsely, shuddering as she freed his erection.

He never mentioned having guards in the garden again.

It’s time to take advantage of our guard-free garden again, she decided as she went to find him. He was in his study, but he wasn’t behind his desk. Instead, he was staring out the window, his shoulders unusually stiff.

“Is something wrong, my love?” she asked softly as she went to join him.

He shuddered when she put her hand on his arm and turned to look down at her, an almost despairing look on his face. Her heart skipped a beat.

“What is it? You’re scaring me.”

He took a deep breath and tugged her against him.

“I never want you to be afraid, little one.”

“Then tell me what’s going on.”

Instead of responding immediately, he sat down on the wide window ledge and lifted her onto his lap, his thumb stroking her mating mark as it so often did. She snuggled closer, relaxing a little as she breathed in his familiar scent.

“Do you remember Grabon mentioning that he knew of several other human females?” he asked finally.

“I do. Why? Have you heard of more women being taken?”

“No, nothing like that. One of the women he mentioned is mated to the King of Sherae.”

“Like I’m mated to you. I hope she’s just as happy.”

She smiled up at him, but he didn’t return the smile. What was going on?

“Sherae is supposed to be a very pleasant planet,” he said slowly. “Pretty and tropical, with warm seas and many little islands.”

“That does sound nice,” she agreed.

“It is also a sanctuary planet.”

“What’s that?”

“It is a place where former slaves can go and live without being afraid that someone will claim them against their will again. The Emperor has designated several of them, but Sherae is the closest.”

She gave a frustrated huff and poked his chest, wincing when the rock hard muscles didn’t give beneath her finger.

“I’m sure you’re trying to tell me something but I have no idea what. Get to the point.”

“If you went to Sherae, you would be free to do whatever you wished,” he said slowly. “You would not need to fear that someone would claim you as a slave.”

She sat up straight, her heart pounding.

“Are you… are you telling me you want me to leave?”

“What? Fuck no.”

He looked so shocked that she gave a sigh of relief.

“Then why are you telling me this?”

“Because you had no other options when you accepted my claim. You needed my protection. But I want you with me because this is where you want to be, not because you have no choice.”

A tear trembled on her lashes as she smiled at him.

“You. Sweet. Sweet. Silly. Male.” She punctuated each word with a kiss. “I am exactly where I want to be. I love you, remember?”

“And I love you too,” he said hoarsely. “More than I ever imagined possible. If Farlain has too many bad memories, if you wish to leave, I will go with you.”

This time the tear escaped.

“There are a few bad memories but many more happy ones. This is our home. And besides, your planet needs you. I would never ask you to leave.”

He stroked her mating mark again, making her shiver.

“I would leave for you.”

“And I will stay for you. And because I love it here. I love this study.” She ran her hand down his chest. “I love our big bed.” Her hand traced the edge of his waistband. “And I love our very private garden.”

She brushed her fingers lightly across his codix, smiling when it flexed beneath her touch.

“Perhaps you should show me how much.” His voice was hoarse again.

“Right now?” she asked innocently, stroking the thick length.

“Right now.”

He rose with her in his arms and stalked out onto the balcony. He set her down in front of the stone balustrade and ripped her dress away with shocking speed. The soft breeze caressed her skin, her nipples already tight and aching.

“Your turn,” she said breathlessly, and he shucked his clothing in record time, his codix springing free between them, the golden ridge glittering in the sunlight.

She reached for him but he turned her to face out into the garden as he stepped up behind her, blanketing her with his big body.

“I love you, little one,” he whispered against her mating mark, then nipped the spot, sending a fiery streak of arousal through her.

“I love you too.”

“Always?”

“Always.”

He nipped at the mark again as he lifted her hips, and then his codix slid deep inside her and she moaned at the pleasure of being filled by him.

“Always,” she repeated, and then words no longer mattered.

EPILOGUE

Three months later…

CRONAN FOUND Unity in the small turret off of the library that she had claimed as an office. He had tried to convince her that she could simply share his study but she had informed him—with some justification—that neither of them would get any work done if they shared a space. Since her mere presence had a tendency to distract him, he’d reluctantly conceded her point.

She was scowling down at the lines of numbers on her datapad.

“Is something wrong?”

“Not exactly, but I still haven’t been able to trace some of these transactions.”

She had continued her work on Ulmat’s records, aided by some of the additional information Wraith had provided, but frequently found that uncovering one item led to several more. She hadn’t let that stop her although she had less time to spend on it these days.

He had followed Barthar’s suggestion and started to include her in first the trade discussions and then in any meetings that involved financial matters. Her presence had originally been regarded with amusement but that had quickly been replaced by respect.

She was also acquiring a small but growing group of clients who consulted with her on business finances. He’d assured her that it wasn’t necessary, and she’d assured him that it was and that she enjoyed it. Since her happiness was all that really mattered to him, he let it drop.

“I’m sure you’ll be able to trace them eventually,” he said confidently, leaning over and brushing her hair aside so that he could kiss her mating mark. She hummed approvingly and put the device down, tilting her neck to allow him better access.

“Have I mentioned how delicious you smell recently?” he murmured, nipping at the delicate flesh.

She shivered but smiled up at him over her shoulder.

“Only twice so far this morning.”

“Not often enough.”

He pressed his lips to her mating mark and sucked gently, delighted when she shivered again, her nipples peaking beneath her gown, and took a deep breath of her intoxicating scent. Mmm. Even richer and sweeter than usual. He cupped a heavy breast and tugged lightly on a tempting peak and she squeaked.

“Is something wrong?”

He started to pull his hand away but she put her small fingers over his, holding him in place.

“Not at all. I’m just sensitive today. Do it again, please, just a little lighter.”

He immediately obeyed, barely applying any pressure, and she wiggled happily.

“Like this?”

“Perfect,” she sighed and covered his hand again. “A little firmer now.”

Her voice went high and breathy when he obeyed, her nipple stiffening beneath his fingers as she arched her back. He continued the gentle plucking motion as he sucked a little harder on her mating mark. Her scent increased until he was almost dizzy with it and his codix was throbbing desperately against his pants.

“I need you,” he growled.

“Yes.”

She twisted in his grip and wrapped her arms around his neck. Her lips opened eagerly under his and their tongues danced and dueled. She tasted sweeter too, and he wanted more. He lifted her up onto her desk, hastily shoving the piles of papers aside as he urged her onto her back. She gasped as he flipped her skirt up and pressed the palm of his hand against her mound, his fingers teasing their way down between her folds.

Fuck, she was hot and slick, her tight little channel clinging to his finger as he began pumping it slowly in and out. She quivered around him and then moaned, long and low and hungry as he added a second finger and began thrusting harder. He used his thumb to toy with her clit, already throbbing beneath his touch. She was so wet that the sounds of her greedy little cunt sucking at his fingers as he drove them in and out were almost as loud as her moans.

“I love how hot you get for me,” he growled as she tightened convulsively around him. She was always receptive to his touch, but this was something more—hotter, sweeter, wetter, hungrier, almost as if…

He froze as a possibility occurred to him. What if she were pregnant? With his child? She mumbled a protest at the halt, and he resumed his strokes as he tried desperately to decide if it could be true. All slaves were given a fertility restrictor—but what if Ulmat had wanted more from her than just a sexual plaything, especially given Astra’s failure to produce an heir?

Her sweet scent flooded his senses as she began pulsing around his fingers and his codix throbbed wildly in response. She gasped and shuddered as he stroked her hard and fast until she exploded around him, her sweetness covering his fingers as she bucked against his hand. The sight of her climax only added to his desperation. He growled again as he yanked his fingers away and replaced them with his codix, pushing into her in one long, hard stroke.

“You’re so fucking perfect.”

“More,” she breathed as she writhed on his codix, her silky heat clutching him so tightly he could barely move. His control was already fraying and he grabbed her ass, holding her in place as he thrust into her, the sound of their bodies colliding joining her increasingly urgent moans as he moved faster and faster.

When her inner muscles flexed around him again, he groaned helplessly as his codix erupted and he emptied himself into her. She sighed happily and put her arms around his neck when he collapsed down over her, careful to keep his weight off her stomach.

“That was even more amazing than normal,” she murmured. “I feel so… alive.”

He didn’t reply, still coming to terms with what he suspected, but after a moment she stirred and he pushed himself upright, then sat down in the desk chair keeping his codix embedded inside her. She wiggled, then snuggled against him as he stroked her hair and tried to decide how to tell her.

“Unity, we need to talk.”

“Mmm? About what?”

“You.”

She stilled in his arms, but he kept stroking her hair as he continued.

“Something has changed.”

“I beg your pardon?”

She sounded politely confused and he shook his head.

“Perhaps it’s more accurate to say something has changed within you.”

“What are you talking about?”

She pushed away a little so she could look up at his face, and they both groaned as his codix flexed.

“Do human females have a monthly cycle?” he asked finally.

“Of course we do. Why—” Her eyes went wide as the realization crossed her face. “Which I haven’t had since I arrived here. Do you think that means…”

Her eyes filled with tears, and his chest ached as he drew her close again.

“I’m so sorry, little one, I—”

“Sorry?” She pushed back again and glared at him. “You mean you don’t want a baby?”

“Not want our child? Of course I want our child.” He slid his hand down between them and placed it over her soft little stomach. “I meant I was sorry that you were not allowed the choice, especially when we have been so busy.”

She shrugged, then smiled up at him.

“There’s never going to be a perfect time. But are you sure you want a baby too?”

He slid his fingers down farther, lightly circling her clit as his codix stiffened and grew.

“Of course I’m sure. Nothing could make me happier.”

“Or harder?” she teased, even as she started to rock against him.

He laughed, a rumbling purr of pure delight as he continued to caress her, but his laughter faded as he met her eyes.

“We will make sure that our child will always know that they are loved and wanted by both of us.”

“Always.” She touched her fingers lightly to his cheek, then gave him a wicked smile as her sweet little cunt tightened around him. “But right now your mate is the one who needs to know she’s wanted.”

“Always,” he echoed, and proceeded to prove it.

GRABON’S STORY is up next in Vera and the Victor!

AUTHOR’S NOTE

Thank you so much for reading Unity and the Usurper! It’s always a pleasure to be back in the Kaisarian universe! I love Cronan, our reluctant king, so determined to do the right thing. And Unity is his perfect match - sweet, smart, and caring!

Whether you enjoyed the story or not, it would mean the world to me if you left an honest review on Amazon—reviews are one of the best ways to help other readers find my books!

Thank you all for supporting these books—I couldn’t do it without you!

And, as always, a special thanks to my beta team—Janet S, Nancy V, and Kitty S. Your thoughts and comments are incredibly helpful!

Grabon’s story is up next in Vera and the Victor!

Grabon went looking for a mate and found a rebellion. When he’s sent to crush one last lingering group of rebels, he discovers their leader is a female - a too smart, too pretty, and too passionate human female.

He knows humans are trouble, and yet he can’t seem to resist the annoying little female. The temperature isn’t the only thing heating up in this alien paradise!

Click here to order Vera and the Victor!

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OTHER TITLES

KAISARIAN EMPIRE

The Alien Abduction Series

Anna and the Alien

Beth and the Barbarian

Cam and the Conqueror

Deb and the Demon

Ella and the Emperor

Faith and the Fighter

Greta and the Gargoyle

Hanna and the Hitman

Izzie and the Icebeast

Joan and the Juggernaut

Kate and the Kraken

Lily and the Lion

Mary and the Minotaur

Nancy and the Naga

Olivia and the Orc

Pandora and the Prisoner

Quinn and the Queller

Rita and the Raider

Sara and the Spymaster

Tammy and the Traitor

Unity and the Usurper

Vera and the Victor

Folsom Planet Blues

Alien Most Wanted: Caged Beast

Alien Most Wanted: Prison Mate

Alien Most Wanted: Mastermind

Alien Most Wanted: Unchained

Stranded with an Alien

Sinta - A SciFi Holiday Tail

Treasured by the Alien

Mama and the Alien Warrior

A Son for the Alien Warrior

Daughter of the Alien Warrior

A Family for the Alien Warrior

The Nanny and the Alien Warrior

A Home for the Alien Warrior

A Gift for the Alien Warrior

A Treasure for the Alien Warrior

Three Babies and the Alien Warrior

Sanctuary for the Alien Warrior

A Miracle for the Alien Warrior

Hope for the Alien Warrior

HOMESTEAD WORLDS

Seven Brides for Seven Alien Brothers

Artek

Benjar

Callum

Drakkar

Endark

Frantor

Gilmat

You Got Alien Trouble!

How the Aliens Were Won

Borgaz

Temel

Naffon

S’kal

Celenk

Kalpar

H’zim

Tomlin

Cosmic Fairy Tales

Jackie and the Giant

Blind Date with an Alien

Her Alien Farmhand

Cyborgs on Mars

High Plains Cyborg

The Good, the Bad, and the Cyborg

A Fistful of Cyborg

A Few Cyborgs More

The Magnificent Cyborg

The Outlaw Cyborg

The Cyborg with No Name

Cyborg Rider

Cosmic Cinema

My Fair Alien

The Alien and I

Skruj

Horned Holidays

Krampus and the Crone

A Gift for Nicholas

A Kiss of Frost

Exposed to the Elements

The Naked Alien

The Bare Essentials

A Nude Attitude

The Buff Beast

The Strip Down

The Alien Invasion Series

Alien Selection

Alien Conquest

Alien Prisoner

Alien Breeder

Alien Alliance

Alien Hope

Alien Castaway

Alien Chief

Alien Ruler

COZY MONSTERS

Fairhaven Falls

Cupcakes for My Orc Enemy

Trouble for My Troll

Fireworks for My Dragon Boss

The Single Mom and the Orc

Mistletoe for My Minotaur

Valentine for My Vampire

Protected by the Orc

Gift for My Ghost

Monster Between the Sheets

Extra Virgin Gargoyle

Without a Stitch

Standalones

Hot Wolf in the City

Mated to the Swamp Monster

FANTASY

The Five Kingdoms

The Orc’s Hidden Bride

The Orc’s Stolen Bride

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Honey Phillips writes steamy science fiction stories about hot alien warriors and the human women they can’t resist. From abductions to invasions, the ride might be rough, but the end always satisfies.

Honey wrote and illustrated her first book at the tender age of five. Her writing has improved since then. Her drawing skills, unfortunately, have not. She loves writing, reading, traveling, cooking, and drinking champagne - not necessarily in that order.

Honey loves to hear from her wonderful readers! You can stalk her at any of the following locations…

www.facebook.com/HoneyPhillipsAuthor

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www.honeyphillips.com