ALIEN MOST WANTED: UNCHAINED

FOLSOM PLANET BLUES

HONEY PHILLIPS

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

Chapter 16

Epilogue

Author’s Note

Other Titles

About the Author

Copyright © 2022 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 Kasmit Covers

Edited by Lindsay York at LY Publishing Services

Created with Vellum

CHAPTER ONE

M arcy prowled from her living room to her office and back again, unusually restless. She had long ago accepted the restraints of her life and found comfort in her home. Usually, she thought of it as her haven, every inch of it designed for her needs. The windows were tinted and the lights fitted with special bulbs. Her books lined the walls, while plants that could thrive in the dim lighting covered most of the remaining surfaces. Her furniture was old, but comfortable. There was nothing that would trigger a dangerous allergic reaction or disturb the careful balance of her house.

She ran her fingers along the familiar comforting book shelves, but tonight she wanted more than just to lose herself in a book. Walking to the window, she pulled back the heavy curtain. Night had fallen, and she could see the curved edge of the full moon as it began to rise above the horizon. A sudden longing to see it in person ran through her—to feel the night air and watch as the moon began to illuminate the town. There was no real reason she couldn’t leave the house, she decided.

There was work to be done, but then again, there was always work to be done. Nothing was urgent enough that it required her immediate attention. Decision made, she proceeded to get ready. The soft fleece-lined sweatpants and hoodie would be fine, and keep her adequately covered, but she applied lotion to her hands and face and found her sunglasses. Wearing sunglasses at night would draw attention if she happened to meet anyone, but she had no intention of meeting anyone.

What would it be like, she wondered, to just step outside whenever you felt like it? To not have to think through the possible dangers she might encounter and take appropriate precautions? But she had been doing it for so long, it was second nature now. A rising sense of excitement filled her as she finally opened the front door and took a deep breath. The night air was clean and fresh, pleasantly cool as it brushed across her skin. The streetlights blazed in the darkness, but her sunglasses reduced them to soft glowing orbs, rather than the painful spotlights they would otherwise be. She smiled, and crossed the road into the park.

The wide dirt trail was firm and springy beneath her feet and she took her time, stopping to inspect the various plants she saw along the way. There were no lights along this path, and she daringly removed her sunglasses so she could inspect the plants in more detail.

The natural world is a marvelous thing, she thought as she bent over the tightly curled fronds of a Mimosa pudica. Such a variety of shapes and forms, all perfectly suited to their environment. And yet, nature had failed her. So much of the world was dangerous to her.

As she approached the top of the hill, she could see the soft radiance from the rising moon illuminating the sky, and she reluctantly pulled her glasses back on. Moonlight should be safe enough, but there was a small open area crowning the hill and she couldn’t remember if it contained any artificial lighting. She had long ago learned not to take any chances.

She stepped out of the woods and into the garden at the top of the hill. An asphalt running path circled up from the other side of the park, but there were no runners or walkers tonight. Flower beds were arranged around several benches posed to look out over the view, and she noticed that the winter pansies were beginning to fade.

This was the highest point in town, and she walked over to the railing to look out over the town below. She had lived here for five years now and yet she really didn’t know the area. She had her prescribed routes—to her doctors and the few supply stores that didn’t deliver—but she rarely left her house. She had everything from clothes to groceries delivered, or even meals when she was in the midst of a project and remembered she needed to eat.

It looks like such a nice town, she thought wistfully. From up here, it seemed so peaceful and harmless. She had picked it from pictures she had found on the internet for exactly those reasons. Unfortunately, it was the first time she’d left the protective confines of her parents’ house, and she hadn’t anticipated the traps she would encounter. Despite her precautions, her early attempts to explore the town had inevitably resulted in one of her debilitating migraines, and it had become easier just to remain in her house. But she shouldn’t complain—she had the resources to create an environment that protected her, and she had a job that challenged her intellect.

She even had a number of virtual friends. It would be nice to meet someone in person occasionally, but it was asking a lot of people to make sure that everything they wore or used on their bodies was hypoallergenic. And no matter how willing a person was to try and accommodate her, it was so easy to overlook something. A scented deodorant or the remnants of processing chemicals on a piece of clothing could trigger a reaction.

No, it was better to remain alone in the safety of her home.

After one more wistful look down at the town, she started to turn back towards the trail. As she did, lightning speared the night, sending a fiery streak of agony through her head despite her sunglasses. She fell to her knees as her head exploded with pain. She had a vague awareness of someone nearby, but then another spike of pain radiated out from her shoulder and she collapsed gratefully into unconsciousness.

A VARIETY of unfamiliar smells washed over her before she even opened her eyes. Because she kept her environment so clean, she was extremely sensitive to scent, yet she couldn’t identify any of these. The most pervasive scents were a heavy, unpleasant musk along with something dry and equally repulsive. Only the faintest ache remained in her head, but her body felt odd and unresponsive. Had she been medicated? Taken to a hospital?

She finally managed to pry her eyes open, but she was no longer wearing her sunglasses and the lights blinded her, triggering a new wave of agony. She tried to curl into a defensive ball, but her body still refused to respond. Through the waves of pain battering at her, she heard a few distant phrases, but they meant very little. She needed her medication but when she tried to speak, only a faint gurgle emerged.

“…Different arrangement…”

Something pricked her neck again, but the pain of the needle paled in comparison to the migraine. For a moment, she hoped it had been medication, but the unrelenting pain did not abate.

“…Restored…”

“Good.”

The last phrase came through more clearly, and she thought she felt a distant sense of movement. Where was she? What had happened? She couldn’t force herself to concentrate on the questions. All she could do was to focus on her breathing and let her body recover.

Her legs and arms began to tingle painfully as sensation started to return, and she tried to concentrate on the feeling, tried to ignore the spikes being driven into her skull. In the end, she was just grateful that she managed to pull them close to her and curl into a protective ball. Was there a distant chuckle? She wasn’t quite sure, but then she was pushed from one surface to another with a painful jolt.

Something surrounded her curled body, and a moment later she knew even through her closed lids that darkness surrounded her. She was grateful for the darkness, but it would take time for the migraine to pass, especially as whatever contained her bumped across a rough surface, each movement renewing the pain. Then another, stronger jolt slammed her against the side of her container and she lost consciousness once more.

CHAPTER TWO

S ’quent sighed and scratched one more mark into the rock. Seven hundred and sixty-three days since he’d been confined to this cell. Or perhaps seven hundred and sixty-four, or even seven hundred and sixty-five. The lack of precision bothered him, but he had spent his first six months in his cell alternating between rage and depression and could not be sure that he had maintained his tally correctly during that period.

My cell in more than one sense, he thought, his mouth twisting. Even though he was locked away in this secret underground cell beneath the official Imperial prison, he was actually the legal owner of the entire planet.

Folsom had first been surveyed about a century ago, but it contained nothing of interest to the Empire. The land was unsuited to agriculture, the mountains did not contain minerals or valuable gems, and the sea life was bitter and inedible. The native plants and animals were hostile and deadly. The results of the survey were recorded and the planet promptly forgotten.

Then, about fifteen years ago, the Empire was looking for a site for a new prison. They preferred uninhabited planets in case anything went wrong. In a worst-case scenario, they could nuke the entire site from orbit, just to make sure that the problem was eliminated. The deadly qualities of the native life actually added to the appeal because they would serve as a deterrent to any escape attempts. A large area was cleared, and the prison was built.

Five years ago, he had discovered that the royal coffers received a yearly payment from the Empire. When he investigated further, he discovered that it was a lease arrangement for the use of the land on which the prison was built. The Royal House of Yaras was the rightful owner of Folsom. He was a little surprised, but his grandfather had been in the habit of acquiring property that he thought might come in useful someday. The amount had aroused his curiosity, but there was nothing otherwise noteworthy. He filed the knowledge away and moved on. Until he discovered a dying creature on one of his hunting trips. A dying creature who had turned out to be much more than he first appeared.

Even now, he couldn’t regret that discovery, although it had led directly to his imprisonment. But that confinement would be coming to an end in the very near future, he thought grimly. And once he discovered exactly how long he had been locked away, his brother would pay for every single day. In the meantime, there was work to be done.

As he turned towards the hidden entrance at the back of his cell, he heard a distant squeak in the outer corridor. Was it mealtime already? The prison food was plentiful, if uninteresting. It was enough to keep him alive, but it was missing certain vital ingredients that his species required and he would have eventually weakened. He sometimes wondered if his brother knew that. While the sadistic aspect of keeping him alive in a diminished state would no doubt appeal to S’ning, S’quent didn’t believe his brother had the intellectual knowledge to plan such a fate. Fortunately, he had found an alternative before the situation became critical.

As the noise came closer, he identified it as the wheel of the laundry cart—but it wasn’t time for laundry either. Then he detected the dry scent of Ratchi, the Warden’s assistant, and his talons sprang free. Warden Nazort was a greedy bastard, but Ratchi was something worse. Despite the meek appearance he used to camouflage his intentions, he was smart, sadistic, and totally without morals. His presence in the underground portion of the prison didn’t bode well.

S’quent moved to the outer section of his cell and leaned against the wall, waiting. In addition to Ratchi’s scent, there was another—something rich and sweet—but it was obscured somehow. His sensitive ears picked up a strange sound as well, almost hidden behind the squeak of the laundry cart, like a faint moan. His face hardened. He would not play whatever game Ratchi had in mind. He remained in the shadows of the cell wall as the assistant approached and peered into the cell.

“S’quent? Ah. There you are.”

Ratchi was a small reptilian male who generally adopted a meek demeanor, but his harmless appearance was like the deceptive fragility of the sauran flower. Like the flower, he had a poisonous heart and a dangerous touch.

“Where else would I be?” S’quent asked mockingly.

“Of course.” Ratchi gave him a cold smile. “But I have decided to relieve your monotony. I have brought you a present.”

The little assistant wheeled the laundry cart closer, then removed the lid to reveal a female hidden within. A human female—no doubt the source of that rich, tantalizing fragrance. She was curled in a ball, whimpering softly, and all he could see of her was a cloud of short white hair and some baggy grey garments. His protective instincts urged him to care for her, but he refused to participate in one of Ratchi’s twisted schemes. He knew the other male wouldn’t hesitate to use a female against him.

“No.”

“No? You would prefer I serve her to one of the other prisoners? Perhaps Skaid. He has been quite useful lately. I think he deserves a reward.”

Apparently, his chivalrous instincts had not completely vanished. The idea of the delicate female at the mercy of the brutal Sudra appalled him.

“What’s the catch?”

“Only one very simple requirement. You must keep her out of sight in that back cave of yours. No one can know that she is here. If she is discovered, she will be removed. But as long as she is not discovered, she is yours to do with as you will.”

Ratchi’s tone was smugly superior. No doubt he expected S’quent to fall up on the female like some ravenous animal. To be fair, most of the other prisoners would behave in such a way. But he had never seen Ratchi show any interest in a female and it was shortsighted of him to assume that every male could be so swayed.

He didn’t believe for an instant that he would be allowed to keep her, but perhaps he could protect her for a time. Possibly even find a more permanent solution…

He sighed and nodded. “Very well.”

“Put your hands in the cuffs,” Ratchi ordered. “And I will bring her into the cell.”

He almost laughed. One of the first things he’d done once he stopped brooding was to make sure that he could release himself from the cuffs whenever he wanted. He had never yet taken advantage of it, and he saw no need to reveal his secret now. He stepped back immediately and raised his arms. The cuffs snapped in place around his wrists. Ratchi opened the cell door and wheeled the cart into the cell before depositing the female carelessly on the ground.

“Do you wish me to remove her clothing?” he asked, bending towards her.

The thought of the other male’s hands on her skin disgusted him, and the cuffs creaked ominously before he remembered himself.

“No,” he snapped. “Move away from her.”

Ratchi obeyed, but S’quent saw the triumphant look on his face. Fuck. He was playing directly into his hands.

“I prefer to unwrap my presents myself.”

He managed to achieve his usual tone of cold mockery, but he suspected that Ratchi wasn’t fooled.

“As you wish. She is yours as long as the secret is maintained.”

The warning was quite clear, as well as the reminder that her presence here was entirely dependent on Ratchi’s goodwill. Or at least Ratchi thought it was. S’quent did have alternatives, although they would require revealing secrets that were not yet ripe.

Once Ratchi had removed himself and the cart, he released the cuffs, then stared at S’quent. S’quent stared back. If the other male was expecting an immediate display of lust on his part, he would have a long wait.

“Was there anything else?” he asked coldly.

“I am waiting for you to remove her from view.” Ratchi tilted his head. “If she is still here when that guard arrives…”

Since S’quent’s hearing was far superior to Ratchi’s he was quite sure that no one approached, but it did provide an excuse to pick the female up off the ground. He lifted her into his arms, unable to prevent himself from treating her gently despite the assistant’s scrutiny. A satisfied smile twisted the other male’s lips.

“Remember. She is our secret.”

He ignored Ratchi and carried his prize into the back cell. She felt… right in his arms, he thought, then immediately dismissed the idea. The previous human female he had encountered had also been pretty and soft. She had been dosed with breeding fluid, designed to arouse his lust, but although his body had responded, he had resisted. He would resist this female as well.

And yet, he was curiously reluctant to put her down on his cot alone. Perhaps he should hold her, merely to ensure that she didn’t fall, he told himself. But then the gong sounded to announce the time when prisoners could leave their cells in order to train. It was an ideal time to see if he could pick up any gossip that might explain why Ratchi had brought the female to him. He reluctantly put her down and returned to the outer portion of his cell.

Soon afterwards, a new male came down the tunnel. Half-Kaisarian and half something else, he decided. He’d never seen him before, but there was something familiar… Ah, yes. The scent reminded him of another prisoner, one who had escaped with his female only a short time before. He could also detect the hint of another human female.

Curious, he engaged the new male in conversation, even though another part of him was constantly on the alert for any signs of distress from his female. Not your female, he reminded himself, and then he heard her whimper. The new male heard it too and actually took a step towards the sound before S’quent blocked him and ordered him to leave.

As soon as he was out of sight, S’quent returned to the inner cave and lifted the female into his arms. She quieted immediately, turning her face into his chest and giving a shuddering sigh. She didn’t regain consciousness, but he decided to hold her until she did.

He could hear the sounds of activity from the rest of the underground prison as more inmates headed for the training room. The Warden encouraged the activity, hoping to keep the prisoners fit enough to participate in the illegal fights he staged. S’quent had actually participated a few times before his brother put a stop to it, afraid that someone would recognize him in the feeds of the fights the Warden sold.

He had quite enjoyed the fights as an outlet for his rage and frustration, but as he sat in the dark cell, holding his female, he found himself unexpectedly content. Her sweet scent filled his head, and the soft sound of her breathing reminded him that he was not alone. Even though he would undoubtedly terrify her, he found himself eager for her to wake up.

CHAPTER THREE

M arcy was curled in a chair made of the finest possible suede. The texture of the material felt soft and warm against her skin. She took a cautious sniff but couldn’t detect any harsh chemical undertones, only a deep earthy scent was oddly comforting. Darkness pressed against her eyelids, but remembering what had happened last time, she was afraid to open her eyes. Taking a deep breath, she took a cautious peek.

Nothing. Just velvety darkness. Such total darkness was rare, and her pulse started to race. Had she damaged her vision to the point where she could no longer see?

“Have I gone blind?” she whispered to herself.

“Not at all, little blossom. I prefer darkness.”

Her chair was speaking! She heard the deep voice rumbling beneath her cheek and suddenly realized she was being held in someone’s lap. Her first instinct was to scramble away, but she had no idea what surrounded her, and her body still felt drained from the migraine. She held herself completely still, afraid to move.

“Who are you?”

“Do any of us really know who we are?”

There was a faint mockery beneath the words, but the rhetorical question actually gave her confidence.

“I wasn’t seeking a philosophical debate. What’s your name?”

“A somewhat easier question. You may call me S’quent. And what is your name, little blossom?”

“My name is Marcy.”

She cautiously tried to sit up, realizing that the bottom of her “chair” was two broad, powerful thighs. From where her head had been positioned, whoever was holding her was very large indeed. She did her best to keep her voice calm.

“Now that we have been introduced, would you mind letting go of me? Please,” she added.

He chuckled, and she actually felt the sound reverberate through her body in an oddly pleasant way.

“Can you see in the dark, little blossom?”

“Marcy,” she reminded him, and sighed. “No, I can’t. But please don’t turn on the lights,” she added quickly.

“Most females would have been begging me for light by now. If they weren’t too busy screaming at the unknown.” He actually sounded surprised that she wasn’t.

“Screaming makes my head hurt,” she said truthfully. “And I’ve never seen any useful purpose to an attack of hysterics. Where am I?”

He chuckled again, that same pleasant reverberation rumbling through her body. “I do enjoy an intelligent female.”

“And I enjoy an intelligent male. Preferably one who answers my questions.”

“Point taken. I am tempted to provide you with the star coordinates for our location, but I suspect what you really want to know is that you are in the secret prison underneath the official prison on the planet Folsom.”

Her pulse was definitely racing through her veins now.

“Planet?” she asked, proud of the fact that her voice trembled only slightly.

“Yes.”

A horrifying suspicion crossed her mind, and she reached out and stroked her hand across his chest. As soft and velvety as she remembered, but this time she was quite, quite sure that it was not fabric.

“You’re not human, are you?”

“Not even remotely.”

An alien. She was being held by an alien on an alien planet. Her hands clenched as she fought to keep from panicking. Her house, her carefully controlled environment, her work. All of it gone. She tried to tell herself that it was impossible, that it was all some kind of elaborate hoax, but she didn’t believe it. Everything felt all too real.

Her captor made an odd, almost purring noise, and she felt it against her fingertips. Fingertips that were still pressed against his chest, she realized, and hastily snatched them away.

“You do not need to remove your hand on my account. I find your touch rather enjoyable.” He sounded almost surprised, and she suddenly wanted to ask him why, but she had more pressing questions.

“You said—a prison?”

“Why, yes. And before you ask, I am a prisoner.”

“What did you do?” The question popped out before she could call it back, and she immediately wished she hadn’t asked him.

“Would you believe me if I said nothing?”

The mocking note was back in his voice again, but she could have sworn there was a hint of pain beneath it.

“Yes,” she said quietly. “But why am I here?”

“I have been asking myself the same question. You were given to me by the Warden’s assistant.”

“Given?”

Her pulse started to race again at the unmistakable implication in his words. She needed to get away from him. Maybe the darkness would work in her favor. If she couldn’t see, neither could he. Before she could leap off his lap, his arms tightened around her like velvet-covered iron bands. He wasn’t hurting her, but there was no way she could break that grip.

“You can’t just give a person to someone else,” she said, trying not to sound desperate.

“I’m afraid you will find that it is not a common viewpoint in the Kaisarian Empire.”

“Kaisarian Empire?”

“The government that controls this section of space, including this planet. This is an Imperial Prison, although we are in an… unsanctioned portion of the prison.”

More questions immediately popped into her mind, but she pushed them aside in favor of the more urgent question. “Then you won’t release me?”

“Another multifaceted question. I could release you from my arms, however I have no desire for you to injure yourself. I… cannot release you from the cell.”

“Cannot or will not?”

She didn’t hear him laugh but she felt the vibration.

“Clever little blossom. Perhaps some of both. But escaping the cell would not return your freedom. You would be… given to one of the other prisoners. And I think you would find them far less civilized.”

“Are you civilized?” she asked bitterly.

“Not in the least.” His lips brushed against her ear, as velvety soft as the rest of his body, and the heat from his breath sent an unexpected shiver down her spine—a shiver that was not entirely from fear. “You would do well to remember that.”

“I…”

Words deserted her, her usually agile brain failing her for once. The threat was quite clear, and she had no doubt that it had a sexual component, but her body was not reacting as if she was afraid. Her nipples tightened, and she had the oddest desire to press her hands to the suddenly aching peaks. How long had it been since anyone had actually touched her?

Once her parents had realized the extent of her weaknesses, all of her interactions had been carefully monitored. She had lived in a sterile room, and her caretakers had been strictly instructed to maintain their distance. It would have been easier to bear if her parents hadn’t been just as distant. Her father took her weakness personally and avoided her. Her mother hovered over her, but she too maintained a physical distance between them.

As soon as she’d obtained her remote degree and qualified for her job, she announced she was moving out. They’d made no attempt to stop her, although her father had offered her the money to purchase her house and her mother had given her a list of companies that could provide suitable furnishings. She had rebelled, of course, but it had only taken one violent reaction to a chair from an unapproved vendor to make her reconsider. Even the books she loved so much went through a sterilization process before she brought them into her house.

But this alien who was holding her hadn’t triggered any of her sensitivities. His scent was comforting rather than irritating, and his suede-like skin felt… good against hers.

“I do, however, have certain standards regarding helpless females,” he continued.

The word helpless grated on her nerves, but it was hardly the first time that she’d heard it. The fact that her body was weak didn’t mean that she was helpless. But in order to put her intellectual abilities to work, she needed information.

Sternly ignoring her body’s unexpected response, she did her best to keep her voice as cool and mocking as his.

“I assume that means you do not intend to keep me in your lap forever?”

“A tempting suggestion. And of course, you would not have to remain sitting.” Her heart skipped a beat, but before she could panic he continued thoughtfully, “Releasing you does represent somewhat of a dilemma. How much light do you require to see?”

“As little as possible,” she said truthfully. “My eyes do not react well to light.”

“I see.”

There was a rush of movement, and then she was sitting on what felt like a thinly padded surface. His arms were no longer around her, and she felt unexpectedly cold.

“And before you get any ideas, little blossom, I can… see in the dark very well. Stay there so you do not hurt yourself.”

A reckless impulse made her want to test his statement, but her impulses rarely ended well. She clenched her fists and remained where she was.

A moment later, a silvery glow began to illuminate her surroundings. He had called it a cell, but it looked more like a cave. The walls were carved from dark, glistening rock. The light seemed to be coming from a curtain of lichen on the rear wall of the cave, and she realized gratefully that the soft glow was not triggering a reaction.

“Thank you—” she began, automatically turning to search for her companion.

She found him in the far corner of the cave, at the furthest distance from the light. His dark, velvety skin seemed to absorb even more of the light, but she could still see him clearly and her pulse started to race. He was huge—his head almost brushing the top of the cave and his size only enhanced by the massive dark wings furled against his back. He had said he was not human and he had not lied. Silver eyes gleamed at her from a face that could have been carved from stone. He had tall curved ears, a prominent nose, and long gleaming fangs.

And he was almost naked, she realized as her gaze traveled down over that immensely broad chest to strong hips and thickly muscled legs. He was also strongly and emphatically male. Her gaze caught on his heavy balls and the thick sheath of his cock, clearly visible beneath a pair of brief shorts.

Her words deserted her once again. She had no experience with men, and her attempts to expand her knowledge on the internet had left her feeling uncomfortable, and oddly disgusted. S’quent did not disgust her. He wasn’t posing or preening—he was just himself, and there was something raw and primal about his presence that her body responded to. She saw his nostrils flare and his eyes gleamed silver as they focused on her face.

“You are quite a surprise, little blossom. I expected you to be shrieking by now.”

If her pale coloring had permitted it, she knew she would be blushing, but she lifted her chin.

“I believe I mentioned that I found hysterics useless.”

“Indeed you did.” He stalked towards her, his massive wings fluttering behind his back. “That should make our encounter very, very interesting.”

CHAPTER FOUR

S ’quent prowled slowly back across the cave towards his female. She had already surprised him twice by not screaming—once when she first awoke, and again when she got her first real look at him. But he was prepared in case his approach frightened her. Any noise from the back cave would be muffled from the main part of the prison, but he had no intention of letting her presence be known.

Her eyes met his, an opalescent blue that shimmered in the pale illumination from the lichen. Everything about her was pale—her hair and skin as white as the night-blooming flower that her scent reminded him of. Even the ugly, shapeless clothing she was wearing was pale grey. He knew from having held her in his arms that she was far from shapeless beneath that clothing, and he had the sudden urge to remove her clothing so he could study the hidden delights it concealed.

The thought made his cock stiffen within its sheath. Perhaps some of that heat was revealed on his face because a small pale tongue flicked out to moisten equally pale pink lips before her eyes darted away from his. Once again, he prepared for the necessity of muffling her cries, but instead her expression brightened.

“Books! You have books. Where did they come from?” She immediately shook her head. “I know, it doesn’t matter. I just wasn’t expecting to see them in a prison cell.” The delicate white brows drew together. “And you said you’re a prisoner as well?”

“Most definitely.”

He thought he had spoken with his usual remote mockery, but her eyes flew back to his face.

“I’m sorry,” she said softly. “How long have you been here?”

Uncomfortable with her perception, he waved at his marks. “As you see.”

Her gaze skimmed them rapidly.

“Seven hundred and sixty-two? No, sixty-three.”

She had calculated the result that quickly? He frowned at her. “How—”

The faintest and most delectable shade of pink tinted her alabaster cheeks.

“It wasn’t difficult. You arranged them very neatly so the pattern was easy to decipher.” She shrugged apologetically. “I tend to forget it makes people uncomfortable when I do things like that.”

“Not uncomfortable, little blossom. I am simply impressed.”

If anything, his praise made her look even more embarrassed, and she gave his books a desperate glance.

“I don’t suppose you’d let me look at them?”

“Do you read Yarasan?”

The question came out rather more sardonically than he had intended, but her embarrassment disappeared and she straightened her shoulders.

“I doubt it, although I am familiar with a number of Earth’s written languages. But I’m sure I could learn.”

“And just how would you do that?”

“It would depend.”

She climbed down off the cot and walked over to the rock shelves holding his journals. She didn’t even seem to notice how close to him she passed, but he was very aware of her presence and that remarkably intoxicating scent.

She looked up at the books, and he saw her fingers twitch as if she longed to touch them, but she kept her hands at her side.

“If it’s a pictorial language, then I would look for repeated ideograms. If it’s an alphabetic language, it would be more difficult without a key.” She shot a look at him from under her eyelashes. “You could give me a key. Or even teach me.”

“Now why would I do that, little blossom?”

“What else are we going to do? If you’ve been here for seven hundred and sixty-three days, I would imagine you’re getting a little bored by now.”

He laughed, he couldn’t help it, but then he took the two steps over to her and pulled her up against his chest. A soft gasp of surprise escaped her as she looked up at him, her eyes shimmering.

“I think you’re forgetting that there are other ways to pass the time,” he purred. Her eyes widened, but then her brows drew together again.

“That can hardly occupy all of your time, can it?”

Once again, he was surprised and impressed. She wasn’t screaming or begging him not to touch her. Instead, she was presenting a logical argument. Although he didn’t think she quite realized the flaw in her argument.

“How much time do you think it would take, little blossom?” he asked, pulling her more firmly against the thick ridge of his cock.

“I don’t really know,” she admitted, the pale pink touching her cheeks again. “I don’t have a lot of experience.”

“How much is not a lot?”

He wasn’t quite sure why he was pursuing the matter, but he was beginning to wonder if her apparent lack of fear was due more to innocence than assurance.

“No personal experience,” she said, and why did that make him want to roar with triumph? “But I have read that the average act of coitus only lasts five minutes.”

“I did not realize that human males were so pitiful.”

“How long does it last for Yarasans? At least, I assume that’s what you are since that’s the language your books are written in.”

“Yes, I am Yarasan. And we last until the female has been satisfied. Many times.”

He realized that he was taking some liberty with the truth. He had been well taught, but the courtesans who provided his education were trained to provide the correct responses. He had found the experience… interesting, but ultimately meaningless. His plants and his studies were far more interesting than the rather vapid ladies of the court. But this little female… oh, yes. He suspected it would be a most satisfying experience to bring her to pleasure over and over again.

She was still frowning up at him. “I can see why that would take longer. Based on my reading, it seems as if it’s much harder for a female to achieve orgasm.”

“Especially with a male who completes the act in five minutes,” he said dryly. “Should I take you up on your challenge, I wonder?”

“I wasn’t challenging you.”

For the first time, she seemed to remember that his arms were still locked around her and she tried to take a step back. When he didn’t permit it, she sighed.

“Would it satisfy your masculine ego if I said I was sure you could? And then we could get back to talking about your books?”

Once again, he couldn’t help laughing. What a delightful little female. And a distracting one, he realized. He had work to do, and he could hardly leave her here alone. Of course, he could show her his secret. He suspected that his project would appeal to her curious nature.

“Would you like to see something?”

She gave him a suspicious look. “You mean your books? Or is this the alien equivalent of offering me a dick pic?”

“A dick pic?”

The pink returned. “You know. When you send me a picture of your… equipment.” She must have seen his confusion, because she huffed. “I mean your penis, okay? Is that what you want to show me?”

He bent down and whispered in her ear. “I would be very happy to show you my cock, but only if you asked to see it.”

“Why would I? I mean, I didn’t.”

Had any female ever looked so adorably confused? He hugged her closer and pressed a kiss on the top of her head before he realized what he was doing. Definitely distracting. He released her and took a step back, ignoring the fact that the front of his body felt cold and naked without her.

“No, little blossom. I had something more… intellectual in mind.”

“That sounds interesting.” She cast a doubtful look around the cave. “Does that mean we’re leaving your cell?”

“Yes and no.” Before she could retort, he put a finger over her lips. “Close your eyes. Trust me.”

And to his immense and rather disturbing satisfaction, she obeyed.

CHAPTER FIVE

M arcy obediently closed her eyes and stood waiting. S’quent had said to trust him, and strangely enough, she did. Perhaps it was foolish, but the fact that he had books reassured her, and his dry, mocking manner reminded her of one of her favorite professors. Of course, even over the web link, she could tell that her professor was a short older man with a head of wild curls. He was nothing like her present companion.

A faint shiver skated across her skin as she remembered that massive figure coming towards her, silver eyes glowing and his wings flaring out behind him, but it wasn’t due to fear, or even the chill in the cave. Robin, one of her caregivers, had tried to bring her comics, but her mother had refused because of the chemicals in the ink. So instead, Robin had told her stories of a winged hero and illustrated them with amateur sketches. The main thing she remembered from the sketches was the huge wings flaring behind a cloaked figure, but she found the memory oddly comforting.

Through her eyelids, she could tell that the light in the cave had dimmed, and a moment later, a huge hand closed over hers.

“How do you do that?” she asked.

“How do I do what?”

“Make the lichen stop glowing. It’s a plant, isn’t it?”

“Such an inquisitive little blossom. Perhaps I shall tell you. In time. Now keep your eyes closed and come with me.” He tugged firmly on her hand and she followed him, still keeping her eyes closed obediently. From the blackness pressing against her eyelids, she suspected it wouldn’t do any good to open them, and she had promised. He helped her through what felt like a narrow gap in the stone, then along a rocky pathway, but he guided her so well that she never even stumbled. Where on earth—where on Folsom—were they going?

“Are we leaving the prison?”

“More questions?” He sounded amused, rather than annoyed, and she shrugged.

“You said to keep my eyes closed. You didn’t say to keep my mouth closed.”

“An oversight I will be sure to remember,” he said dryly, but he still sounded amused.

She was conscious of what felt like a change in direction, and then light pressing against her eyelids. Panicking, she turned and found him directly behind her. She immediately buried her head against his chest, keeping her eyes tightly shut.

“What’s wrong, blossom?”

“The light. Artificial lights trigger my headaches.” Although calling them headaches was a laughable understatement.

“Hmm.” His hands stroked soothingly over her head and down her back. Under other circumstances, she might have taken comfort in the reassuring touch, but she was too frightened.

“Please. Please take me back.”

“Listen to me, little blossom. You said artificial lights, correct?”

She nodded against his chest, taking comfort in the velvety warmth against her cheek.

“What about natural light?”

“It depends. A sunny day is too bright, but if it’s really overcast it’s usually okay.”

“It’s certainly not sunny in here. What about moonlight? I noticed that the light from the lichen didn’t seem to bother you.”

As he questioned her, he held her more tightly against his body, and she was suddenly conscious of the thick ridge pressing against her stomach. The sensation distracted her so much that she almost didn’t answer him.

“Marcy?” he prompted her, and she did her best to concentrate on his question and not his enormous erection.

“I don’t know. Moonlight is okay and you’re right, the lichen didn’t bother me. Why? Is it night? Are we outside?”

“We are not outside.” It was an odd note in his voice that she couldn’t decipher. “But I give you my word there is no artificial lighting present. Do you want to try?” When she hesitated, he added, “I’ll use my wings to veil the light.”

The comforting dimness returned, and she gathered up her courage and cautiously opened one eye. The first thing she saw was his wing. The light behind it rendered it almost translucent, and without thinking she reached out and ran her fingers down the silky surface. His erection jerked against her stomach. Curiosity overrode her caution and she looked up at him.

“Do you like that?”

“They’re sensitive,” he admitted.

“Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t hurt you, did I?”

“Not that kind of sensitive, little blossom.” He ran a clawed finger delicately around the shell of her ear, and she shuddered. “That kind of sensitive.”

“Oh.”

She realized that she could see him quite clearly, and no streaks of pain had started to radiate through her head. Hopefully, that was a good sign. She took a deep breath.

“Maybe we could try a little more light.”

He opened his wings a little and more light filtered down, but even though it was bright, it also had a soft pinkish glow. She held her breath but no fiery burst of agony seared through her brain, and she gave him a delighted smile.

“I think it’s all right.”

He returned the smile.

“Then turn around, little blossom.”

He dropped his wings as she obeyed, and she gasped in delight. They were on a rock outcropping overlooking a vast cavern. A variety of plants and vines covered the walls, most of them shimmering in soft shades of silver and pink and purple. A waterfall streamed down the far wall, flowing across the floor and through an opening into another cavern with a deeper, bluer hue to the light.

Directly below her she could see a workbench that appeared to be made from an old cot balanced across two rock columns. The surface was scattered with containers and bits of crude equipment, along with several more books. More materials were tucked away in niches on the walls.

“This is amazing. How did you find it?”

His face turned cold. “I did not take… kindly to my captivity. Once when I was in a blind rage, I foolishly pounded my fists against the walls. It should not have had any result except to tear my skin and possibly break my bones.”

He looked down at his hands, and for the first time she noticed the fine silvery scars covering them.

“But although I damaged myself, I also managed to dislodge some of the rocks.” He shrugged. “My curiosity was aroused, and I continued moving the rocks.”

“You tunneled this far in seven hundred and sixty-three days? Or less, I suppose, since you seem well established,” she added, looking at the cluttered workspace.

He gave one of his mocking chuckles. “I fear that would have taken me much longer. But once I was through the cell wall I found the passage, which in turn led me here. The entire planet has networks of these underground caverns.”

“Do they go all the way to the surface?” she asked eagerly. “Could we escape through here?”

“It is not that simple. But that is the subject for another day. Would you like to see my work?”

She nodded, then gave the rocks leading down to the ground level a doubtful look. “Although I’m not sure if my rock climbing skills are that good.”

He laughed again and swept her up in his arms.

“There is an easier way.”

He leaped upwards, his wings snapping out to catch the air. She squeaked and grabbed his neck, but they were only airborne for a few seconds before he landed gracefully on the cavern floor. She suddenly found herself sorry that it was over. Perhaps when he flew her back up to the ledge she could ask him to go a little further, but in the meantime, she was more interested in the workbench.

As they drew closer, she could see a blue mixture simmering over a small flame. He regarded it thoughtfully, then opened one of the books and made a series of notations. Not books after all—journals.

“You’re a scientist?”

“You sound surprised, little blossom. Don’t I look like a scientist?”

“No. Not at all. What are you researching?”

“The plant life on Folsom is quite… unique.” He spoke casually, but again there was a hint of restraint underlying his words.

“Have you always studied plants?”

“To a certain extent, but more as part of the overall interactions in an ecological system.” He shrugged again, his face unreadable. “But under the circumstances, this appeared to be the best alternative.”

He made a few additional notes while she looked around his workspace. Many of the supplies were obviously made from secondhand materials—most of his containers were old bottles while others were carved from pieces of wood. Even the flame beneath his current experiment came from a wick floating in a small stone bowl filled with oil. But there were other things—what looked like a thermometer, some measuring tools, and of course the journals—that clearly had not been handmade.

“Where did your equipment come from?”

“Bribes mostly. An occasional begrudging response to a request.” His voice had turned mocking again, but when he looked up and saw her face, his tone softened. “And before you ask, little blossom, I did not request you.”

“Then why was I… given to you?”

“I do not know. Perhaps…” He frowned down at the workshop, tapping his claws against the surface.

“Perhaps what?” she prompted.

“They wish to keep me alive. Perhaps they consider a human female an incentive.” His eyes swept over her. “The idea is not without merit.”

Once again, she knew she would be blushing if her skin permitted. She quickly looked back at the row of plants sprouting in the half bottles that lined one shelf.

“I wanted to study botany once.”

“What did you do instead?”

She gave him a rueful smile.

“Became a research assistant for the biology department at my university. I document their findings, look for relevant work done by others, and prepare the first drafts of their papers.” And the final draft for quite a few, but she had long ago accepted that.

He frowned at her. “Why didn’t you take a more active role? It seems clear that you have the intellectual capacity.”

“Unfortunately, I don’t have the physical capacity. I react poorly to the presence of most chemicals.”

He reached out a hand as if to pull her back from the bench, then hesitated. “Is there anything here that troubles you?”

She shook her head. “Actually, no. But maybe it’s because everything here appears to be natural.”

He was still frowning at her. “Are your reactions due to illness?”

“No. I was born this way.” She hesitated. “I’m… different. Most humans have more pigment in their skin.”

“I know.”

“You do? How?”

“I… encountered another human female, but she was quite different.”

Why didn’t that surprise her? Maybe because it seemed unlikely that another race would have traveled to Earth just to abduct her. She tried to remember when she’d regained consciousness. Had there been others present? She couldn’t remember, everything blurred by the agony of the migraine.

“What kind of encounter?”

“A very brief one,” he assured her. “And I didn’t bring her here. No one else has ever been here.”

She ignored her flash of pleasure at his words. “What happened to her?”

“She is… no longer within the prison.”

His phrasing only raised additional questions, but since he was obviously determined to be evasive, she didn’t pursue it.

“The lack of pigmentation may be a contributing factor. It certainly renders my eyes more susceptible to light, and my doctors suspect that my skin is equally sensitive.”

He gave her a long, slow appraisal, and once again she felt her body start to respond.

“It is a most attractive variation.”

A wave of heat washed over her, and she quickly changed the subject.

“It’s much warmer down here than it was in the cell.”

“Most of the planet is actually quite temperate, but these caverns are warm because the water is heated.” He gestured at the opening through into the other cavern. “There are hot springs in the next cave.”

“Oh, that sounds wonderful.”

“Would you like to bathe? Clothing optional,” he added, arching his eyebrow.

Ignoring the suggestive note in his voice, she considered the idea. It did sound tempting.

“Would you promise not to look?”

“Of course not. Why would I deny myself the sight of your beauty?”

A streak of vanity that she had never suspected she possessed preened at his words, but she did her best to ignore it.

“Then would you promise not to touch me?”

“Would you believe me?”

“Of course I would.” She had no idea why, but she was quite sure that he would never go back on his word.

The shock on his face disappeared so quickly she could almost believe she’d imagined it, replaced by his normal mocking smile.

“I’m afraid I can’t make that promise. What if you were to slip and require my assistance?”

“Then I’d ask you to help me.”

He shook his head.

“But perhaps the fall would render you unconscious. As you were when you were brought to me,” he added with a hint of triumph.

He was right. He had held her while she was unconscious. And while she was conscious. But he hadn’t hurt her either time. She stared at him for a minute, then shrugged.

“Then I’m going to bathe.”

She kicked off her sneakers, let the baggy sweatpants slide down over her hips, shrugged off her hoodie, and turned and walked towards the other cavern.

CHAPTER SIX

S ’quent rarely found himself at a loss for words, but this female kept surprising him. He had made the suggestion in jest, prepared for her to take offense. Instead, she had considered the matter objectively and made a decision. The right decision, he thought, watching her as she moved away from him.

Her white body glowed, reflecting the colors of the luminescent plants, the pink and lavender glow turning her pristine white skin into a precious jewel. She was still clothed in two small garments—too brief to be of any real use. A pale blue top barely contained her unexpectedly bountiful breasts, and the matching bottom garment revealed more of her underlying curves than it concealed. As he followed her like an avian seeking nectar, he wondered why she hadn’t removed them as well.

She didn’t look back as she made her way carefully across the rocky floor. He reached her just as she paused in the archway overlooking the other cavern. She didn’t turn to look at him, but she was obviously aware that he had joined her.

“This is so beautiful,” she murmured.

He had considered it more from a scientific basis, but she was correct. More streams of water trickled down the walls to splash gently in the numerous pools that covered the ground. The main channel fell from one pool to another before disappearing beneath the far wall. The plants that thrived in this more humid environment were darker, glowing in jewel tones of sapphire and ruby.

“Very beautiful,” he agreed, but he was looking at her rather than the cavern. He suddenly wanted to see her flustered by his presence as he was beginning to feel by hers. “Why do you even bother to wear those garments? They conceal nothing.”

She looked almost startled, glancing down at herself uncertainly, but then her chin came up.

“They cover as much as a bathing suit would cover.”

“You wear clothes to bathe in?”

“To swim in—if you’re in public.” A flash of sorrow crossed her face. “Not that I ever went swimming. This is my underwear.”

“Underwear?”

“To wear beneath your clothing?”

He shook his head. What a strange concept. He traced a delicate claw along the scalloped lace edging the brief top and watched as her nipples beaded beneath the thin material.

“If they are concealed, why make them so… attractive?”

She watched the movement of his finger, but she didn’t pull away. “I suppose because they help me remember that I’m a woman as well as a scientist.”

“There is no doubt of that,” he assured her, taking a step closer so that he was only a breath away from all that bare, silky skin. “Do you need help remembering?”

She shrugged, and her shoulder brushed his chest. A fleeting, completely innocent touch, but his cock responded as if she had reached out and grasped it directly.

“I suppose, sometimes. I’m by myself all the time and I only ever speak to people over the internet.”

“Internet?”

“An interconnected network that we use to send messages or exchange calls.”

“Ah. We call ours the Empweb.”

She laughed. “We used to talk about the World Wide Web, but worldwide seems pretty tame in comparison.”

He wanted to ask more about this sheltered life of hers, but she turned away and dipped her toe into the nearest pool. “It’s so warm!”

Perhaps too warm for her delicate skin. He guided her down to the second pool.

“I believe you might prefer this one. It is not quite as hot, and there is a ledge beneath the surface that is perfect for sitting.”

She gave him a delighted smile and didn’t pull away when he lifted her down onto the hidden ledge. She slid down into the water, then smiled up at him.

“You’re right. This one is perfect.”

He couldn’t tear his eyes away from her. The water rendered her garments completely translucent. He could see the slightly darker color of her nipples and areolas and the small patch of curls at the apex of her thighs. And yet, despite the transparency of the cloth, he still hated having that barrier between them.

“Your clothing is now wet,” he pointed out. “You should take it off and let it dry.”

For the first time she looked away from him. “I’ve never been naked in front of anyone except for a doctor before.”

The reminder of her innocence made him hesitate. But before he could decide on a response, she looked back up at him and smiled, a little nervously. “Do you want to come and join me?”

He didn’t hesitate. He shoved his shorts down, and her eyes immediately fastened on his cock, the broad head pushing free from its sheath. That small pink tongue came out to dampen her lips, and another inch emerged. Silently, he let her look until her gaze finally dropped away. That pale flush of color touched her cheeks again.

“I’ve never seen one in person before.”

“I didn’t expect you to have encountered a Yarasan before,” he said, arching his brow before joining her in the pool.

She shook her head. “Obviously. But I’ve never seen a human penis before either.” She shot him a quick look from under her lashes. “I don’t believe they are as large.”

That statement should not have filled him with as much satisfaction as it did. “Perhaps it’s just as well that you have never had an encounter with a human male. They sound most inadequate.”

“A lot of human females are very happy with their men.”

“Perhaps that is because they do not know any better.”

Her lips curved. “They certainly have not encountered a Yarasan before.”

Before he could pursue this fascinating topic any further, she changed the subject.

“What exactly are you working on?”

How much should he tell her, he wondered. If Ratchi removed her and questioned her…

No. He would never permit that to happen. She belonged to him now, and he would take care of her.

“Were you awake when you landed?” he asked, after a moment’s hesitation.

She shook her head.

“If you had been, you would have seen that the prison sits in the middle of a barren landscape. This entire area was originally covered by jungle, but when the decision was made to build the prison here, the surrounding vegetation was burnt to the ground and the ground treated to ensure that nothing would grow.”

“That’s terrible. Why would they do that?”

“The official reason is to add another layer of security. If a prisoner should break free, they would be easy to spot and apprehend.”

She studied his face. “And the unofficial reason?”

“A threat. A reminder of the power of the… Empire.”

“What does that have to do with your work?”

“My work is designed to do the opposite—to show the power of nature.”

“After you tamper with it?” she asked dryly.

“I am only encouraging the potential that already exists.”

“How?”

“By speeding up the growth process.”

“So the jungle can reclaim the land?” she asked thoughtfully.

He wasn’t surprised that she’d immediately identified that portion of his plan. Fortunately, she didn’t seem to realize the additional ramifications.

“Clever little blossom,” he purred.

She rolled her eyes but still seemed pleased at the compliment.

“Are you working directly with the seeds?”

He started to explain his experiments and their conversation quickly turned technical. They didn’t use exactly the same terminology, but it was clear that she had an impressive depth of knowledge. He could almost forget that she was sitting next to him with those ridiculously sheer garments barely covering her delectable body. Almost.

He had just finished describing the results of his latest experiment when she surprised him yet again. Using a wet fingertip, she sketched the name of the plant on the rock surrounding the pool.

“Is this the name of what you’re using?”

“The osish plant? Yes. How did you know?”

She ducked her head. “I saw you write it in your journal and I remembered it.”

“Do you remember everything you see in writing?”

“Almost everything, yes.”

He started to laugh and her lip trembled. He immediately realized his mistake, and lifted her onto his lap.

“I wasn’t laughing at you, blossom. I was laughing at myself for being so arrogant as to think you wouldn’t understand Yarasan.”

Her body relaxed against his as she gave him a tremulous smile. “I don’t think one word counts as understanding.”

“Agreed, but I doubt it would take you long.”

“Maybe.” She looked at him from under her lashes. “Will you teach me?”

“Yes.” Remembering their earlier conversation, he added provocatively, “Would you like me to teach you about the other things you haven’t experienced?”

She took a deep breath, her breasts perilously close to spilling out of her wet top. Then, to his complete and utter shock, she looked up at him and smiled.

“Yes, please.”

CHAPTER SEVEN

M arcy felt S’quent’s body tense and immediately wondered if he was regretting his offer. But then she felt his cock throb beneath her butt. It certainly seemed as if he liked the idea.

“Are you sure about this, little blossom?”

“I’m sure.”

It had been an impulsive decision, but the more she thought about it, the more it made sense. Despite his alien appearance—or even in part, because of it—she was extremely attracted to him. The fact that they had been in close proximity since she awakened without triggering any negative reactions was another point in his favor. And most of all, she liked him. She liked the passion with which he discussed his work, liked the subtle workings of his brain—and she liked the way he treated her. As if she was intelligent, but also as if she was beautiful.

She had missed out on so many things in her life, and here was a chance to experience something she had only read about. And something about S’quent made her feel safe, in spite of his fangs and his claws and just the sheer overwhelming size of him. In fact, she thought, wiggling a little closer to that massive velvety chest, the size difference actually made her feel safer.

Was it some kind of biological response, she wondered, momentarily distracted. Were women programmed to respond to a male who would be a good provider for their children? Not that there would ever be any children between them. They were two completely different species, and their bodies would not be biologically compatible. The thought actually made her a little sad, even though she had long ago accepted that there would be no children in her future.

She was still considering biological imperatives when S’quent’s hand closed over her breast—huge and warm and sending a streak of excitement rocketing through her body. She gasped and jumped and he immediately removed his hand.

“As I thought. You are not ready for this.”

He sounded regretful, but not upset, and she found herself frowning up at him. Shouldn’t he want to touch her? She shifted her weight a little and felt the reassuring jerk of his cock. Emboldened by his response, she grabbed his hand and firmly brought it back up to her breast, arching into it as his fingers automatically closed around the soft mound.

“I’m ready,” she assured him. “You just startled me because I was thinking.”

He laughed, sending another one of those delightful vibrations through her body, but this time he didn’t remove his hand.

“I believe the point of this exercise is for you to stop thinking and enjoy.”

“But how can I enjoy it if I’m not think—”

He stopped her from talking by the simple expedient of pressing his mouth against hers and kissing her. Mmm. That felt very nice. His lips were firm and velvety and although she was aware of his fangs, they didn’t feel threatening.

My first kiss, and it was a wonderful one, she thought, leaning into him with a happy little sigh.

His mouth moved away a fraction until he was no longer kissing her. She opened her mouth to ask for more, but before any words could emerge, he was back. Taking advantage of her open mouth, his tongue swept inside. He tasted delicious, somehow cool and spicy at the same time, but his tongue was big and hot and demanding. Something about it surprised her, but before she could analyze it, he began to explore her mouth and her thoughts vanished like a puff of smoke.

Sensations washed over her, extending far beyond her mouth. When he wrapped his tongue around hers and tugged gently, she felt the pull from her aching nipples down to her throbbing clit. She clung to him, trying to get closer, seeking more of those delicious sensations. She felt rather than heard him groan into her mouth, a rumbling sensation that only added to her excitement. He had one big hand cupping her head, holding her close for his kiss, and the other was clenched on her buttocks, grinding her needy body against the well-defined ridges of his abdominal muscles.

Yes, that.

She tried to get even closer, seeking that elusive climax that hovered just out of reach. As she tried to wiggle closer, she brushed against something huge and hot and wet. Instinctively, she tried to press down on it, to relieve the needy ache between her legs. There was a sudden rush of movement, and she found herself back on the underwater ledge staring up at S’quent. His eyes were closed and his massive chest rose and fell with his rapid breathing. What had happened? He almost looked as if he were in pain.

“What’s wrong? Did I hurt you?”

His eyes flew open at the question, and he shook his head, even as he reached beneath the water and fisted his cock, now fully emerged from its sheath. Not as dark as his skin, but flushed a deep rich purple. She watched enviously as he put his hand around it. Her own body still throbbed and ached.

“Can I do that?”

He groaned again, and she saw his hand clench around his massive shaft, almost too large for even his big hand to contain.

“Little blossom, I am very close to losing control. That has not happened for a very, very long time.”

“I don’t mind.” Her clit throbbed again as she remembered how good it had felt when he pressed between her legs.

“No,” he said firmly. “You are not ready.”

She could have cried with frustration. Her body still throbbed and burned, still longing for that elusive climax. She knew from experience that she could touch herself, perhaps even achieve a pleasant little climax, but this had promised to be so much more.

“How do I become ready?” she demanded. “Is there a test I can take?”

He started to laugh, and for the first time the grimness disappeared from his face. He pulled her back onto his lap and she went eagerly, already reaching for that tantalizing cock. He intercepted her hand before she could touch him.

“I will help you to… prepare, but your body will need time.”

“My body is ready,” she insisted. “It’s all hot and achy and…”

His face softened even further. “I understand, blossom.”

“You said that Yarasan males always make sure that the females are satisfied.” She had intended her statement as a logical argument, but it came out as disturbingly needy.

He laughed again and rose to his feet, still holding her tightly against his chest.

“I did, and I promise that you will be satisfied. But not that way. At least not yet.”

She actually felt herself pout, an expression that hadn’t crossed her face since she was five. Perhaps it was appropriate. She did rather feel as if someone had promised her a delicious treat and then snatched it away. Then S’quent started to put her down again, distracting her from her thoughts.

“What are you doing?”

“I am making you comfortable. This may take a while.”

“But—”

Her protest stopped as he sat her on a rocky ledge carpeted with thick purple moss. Small silver specks gleamed amidst the purple, and it felt heavenly against her damp skin.

“This moss is safe, but many of the plants on Folsom are not,” he warned. “Always approach them with caution.”

Interesting. Under other circumstances she would have peppered him with questions, but right now, she wasn’t in the mood for a biology lecture.

“Aren’t you going to join me?”

“Yes, but first…”

He leaned over her to examine the fastening of her bra, and for the first time she noticed that the platform was at the same level as his waist. She edged forward, just a little, just enough to feel the tantalizing brush of his huge cock against the damp silk covering her pussy. He jerked back just as he succeeded in undoing her bra, and the silky garment fluttered free. His gaze immediately went to her breasts.

“Beautiful,” he murmured.

“Really?” She’d never been impressed by her body. Her nipples were small and pale, only barely darker than her skin.

“Yes,” he said firmly, and brushed his thumb across the sensitive peak. Her back arched as that simple touch reawakened all the need simmering in her blood.

“Do that again,” she demanded.

“Patience, little blossom. Pleasure is most enhanced when it is somewhat delayed.”

“It’s been delayed long enough.”

Before he could object, she reached down and yanked off her wet panties. Under other circumstances, she might have hesitated, might have been self-conscious about the scant silky white curls or her pale folds, but she believed him when he said he found her beautiful. She saw his cock jerk as his eyes focused between her legs, and she smiled happily as she lay down.

“I’m ready.”

“Indeed?”

His eyes swept over her from head to toe, and she could almost feel a corresponding warmth traveling over her skin. Even so, she jumped when he placed a big, warm hand on her leg.

“Relax, little blossom. I’m here to please you, not to perform a medical exam.”

She felt her cheeks warm as she realized she had automatically placed herself as if preparing for a doctor’s examination. “It’s the only time I’ve ever been naked with a man.”

“You may be naked with me as often as you wish.”

“I’m not sure that’s very pract—”

Once again, he stopped her with a kiss, as deep and thorough and overwhelming as before. It wasn’t until he finally raised his head that her thoughts began to return and she realized that he was also cupping her breasts, tugging gently on the taut peaks. He gave her a lazy, satisfied smile but she could see the tension in his posture.

“Is there something different about your tongue?” Once again the question popped out before she could call it back, and he started to laugh.

“You are supposed to be enjoying, blossom, not analyzing.”

Her first reaction was concern that she was not behaving appropriately, but his eyes were warm and he no longer looked quite so stiff. She relaxed and returned his smile.

“I can’t help it. My mind is always working. Except when you’re kissing me,” she added truthfully.

“Then I shall have to see what else I can do to get that busy little mind to rest.” His smile turned dark, almost dangerous, and she shivered with anticipation. “But to answer your question, yes. My tongue has papillae that stiffen when I am aroused to provide additional stimulation. Like so.”

He lifted her hand and sucked her finger into his mouth, wrapping his tongue around the slender digit. She could feel his tongue caressing her, a tantalizing combination of rough and smooth and wet. But she also felt a subtler touch, as if a million smaller tongues were caressing her, awakening each individual nerve ending. Even though he was only kissing her finger, the sensation echoed throughout her body and she shivered again.

“You see?” he asked as he released her finger.

She nodded, and then her eyes widened as her mind raced ahead. “Does that mean they also stimulate… other body parts?”

“Oh, yes,” he purred, and then his mouth closed over her breast and she lost all capacity for rational thought.

CHAPTER EIGHT

S ’quent watched in satisfaction as Marcy’s beautiful eyes fluttered shut. He closed his mouth over her nipple, letting his tongue stimulate the sensitive flesh while he gently worked her other nipple with his fingers, watching for her response. He had been taught to do this - to monitor a female’s response to determine what brought her pleasure - but that had seemed like such a clinical process, the simple application of stimuli and response. This was entirely different.

Every slight sound that escaped Marcy’s lips, every tremor that rippled across her skin seemed to reverberate within him, his arousal building as he ignited hers. The heady scent of her arousal made his head spin.

He kept his touch gentle at first, afraid of damaging her delicate body, but every sign indicated she wanted more. He tightened his grip on her nipple, watching until her back arched and her eyes fluttered open.

“Oh, God, yes.”

He lifted his mouth from her other peak, letting his breath drift across her damp skin. “Do you like that, little blossom?”

“Very much, but…”

Her body moved restlessly as she spoke.

“But you need more?”

Triumph filled him when she nodded. She responded so perfectly to his touch.

As if she’d been made for me. The thought sprang into his mind, startling in its intensity. His people understood the concept of true mates, of course, and it was a frequent topic in songs and literature. But in real life, most couples married for far more pedestrian reasons—political or trade advantages, mutual goals, or even simple friendship. He has always assumed that his eventual marriage would be a political one.

No. His mind immediately rebelled at the idea, and his body froze. There would be no political union. He had found his mate. His father had faced such a decision once and chosen politics. Even assuming he could return to Yaras and claim the throne, he would never make that choice.

“S’quent?” Marcy’s soft voice interrupted his thoughts, and he realized he was still frozen in place. “Did I do something wrong? Are my reactions… not right?”

She looked shy and uncertain and guilt immediately swamped him. Making his mate uncomfortable was hardly the most propitious start to their relationship. He would make sure she never doubted her appeal again.

“Not at all. You responded perfectly—so perfectly I was unforgivably distracted.”

He waved a hand at his throbbing cock, happy to pass the blame to the unruly appendage. Her eyes widened, and she extended a small hand in his direction.

“May I touch you?”

Gods, yes. His eager cock jerked at the shy request, but he intercepted her hand just as he’d done earlier.

“Another time,” he said firmly. “I do not want any more distractions. Now, I believe you requested more?”

“I’m not sure what ‘more’ means, but yes. Please.”

He could tell that her brain had clicked on again so he didn’t bother with a verbal response. He returned to her delightful breasts, using his hands and mouth until she quivered beneath him. He kissed his way down her body, noting the spot on her fragile ribs that made her giggle and the way she gasped when he circled the small indentation in her stomach.

Her body thrashed restlessly as he parted her thighs. He wanted to pause, to admire the pale perfection and plan the ideal place for his mating bite, but he didn’t want her to worry again. Instead, he chose the equally delightful option of using his tongue to explore.

Her taste washed over his tongue, as rich and sweet as her scent. He lapped slowly, absorbing her taste into his papillae as he stimulated her sensitive flesh. He found the small bud at the top of her slit that made her body tighten and circled it slowly.

She made an incoherent noise, and he circled it again, using more pressure this time. Her muscles quivered as he reluctantly abandoned the intriguing little spot and slipped lower. He probed at her entrance, impossibly small but hot and wet and welcoming. He pushed deeper, groaning as more of her essence washed over his tongue, even sweeter here. When he found the fragile barrier of her innocence, he hesitated, but her body and her soft cries urged him on. Stroking her small pleasure nub to distract her, he thrust his tongue through the small barrier.

Her body arched as she cried out, and then he felt her climaxing around his tongue, milking it in long, slow pulses. More of her essence flooded his mouth, mixed with a tiny amount of her blood. His fangs ached, longing to take in more of her rich, spicy blood.

Her shudders started to subside, and he pressed deeper, exploring every inch of the narrow channel now available to him. His cock ached, and he wrapped his hand around it, stroking it in the same rhythm as his exploring tongue. Unbelievably, her tiny cunt started to flutter again, responding to his strokes, and when she climaxed again, he joined her, his seed splattering against the rock in a heated flood.

He still wanted more—craved more—but her body had gone limp. He took one last delicious taste and reluctantly withdrew. Her eyes had closed, but they fluttered open as he joined her on the mossy ledge.

“I… I don’t know what to say.”

“I consider that a compliment,” he said gravely and she laughed.

He smiled back, then pulled her into his arms. She nestled against him with a contented little sound. For the first time since he’d arrived on Folsom, he felt equally content. There was still work to be done and plans to complete, but for right now he allowed himself to enjoy the simple pleasure of a quiet moment and his satisfied female safe in his arms.

Unfortunately, S’quent’s peace did not last long. Even from within the cavern, he could hear the sounds of increased activity in the tunnels above. It was time for the evening meal, and then lights out. He sighed and rose to his feet, carefully keeping Marcy’s limp body tucked against his chest.

As he carried her back through the cavern, he thought she was asleep. He should have known better.

“You have a net under the waterfall,” she said suddenly, and he almost shook his head. Soon he would have no secrets left at all.

“Yes, I do.”

“Why?”

“To catch fish.” Which was true—but not the entire truth.

“Fish? Down here?”

“There are cave fish, but in this case, the stream is not entirely subterranean.”

“Do you ever get anything else from the surface?” she asked.

He didn’t want to lie to her, but neither was he prepared to tell her the truth.

“Sometimes things fall into the water and are carried along.”

Her eyes narrowed. “Why do I get the feeling you’re not telling me everything?”

“Because you’re a clever little blossom?”

“Flattery isn’t going to work,” she said severely, then shocked him by leaning up and pressing a kiss to his mouth.

“That will not discourage me,” he assured her.

“I know. I just wanted to thank you. For being so sweet and thoughtful.”

“Those are not words usually associated with me,” he said dryly.

“You probably don’t give everyone you meet the best orgasm—the best two orgasms of their entire life. At least I don’t think you do, do you?”

The look of uncertainty in her face made his chest ache. He came to a halt and lifted her so he could look directly into her eyes.

“No, blossom. I’ve never had the least interest in bringing another female to even one orgasm.”

“Well, good. Me either. I mean, not with another man.” Her face brightened. “But I do with you. Will you show me how—”

His cock signaled its enthusiastic agreement with her request, but this was not the time.

“Yes, but not now.”

“Good. I love our lessons.”

She brushed another kiss across his lips, then snuggled back down into his arms. Her innocent enthusiasm delighted him, but then he stopped to check his work while she pulled her shapeless clothing back on. It was a stark reminder of the reality of their situation, only compounded when they returned to the grim confines of his cell.

“I definitely prefer the caverns,” she said wistfully. “Do we have to stay here?”

“I am afraid so. I do not want the caverns to be discovered. A long absence would arouse curiosity. Generally, they leave me alone, but I sleep in the cell and I try to be present when meals are distributed.”

If he had been the only one involved, he would have been tempted to abandon his plans and escape with her into the jungle. But he’d made a vow that he couldn’t—wouldn’t—forget.

She immediately apologized. “I know it’s not your fault. And maybe you could spend some time teaching me. Your language,” she added quickly when he started to laugh.

“I thought you were an insatiable little blossom,” he teased.

“Couldn’t they hear us?” she whispered, pointing at the passage into the front cell.

“Probably not, but I agree. This is not the place.”

“I suppose books are just as good,” she said thoughtfully.

It wasn’t until he saw her eyes sparkling that he realized she was teasing him in return.

“I see I shall have to work harder to move up in your estimation.”

“I can’t wait.”

“But wait you will. In the meantime…” He pulled one of his journals off the rock shelf. “Shall we try the alternative?”

Somehow, he was not surprised to find her an incredibly fast learner. She remembered each of the symbols flawlessly, and by the time the meal arrived she had started to read his notes.

The meal was the usual—bland, but plentiful and designed to provide adequate nutrition for most species. Except mine, he thought, wondering once again if that omission had been a deliberate instruction on his brother’s part.

“It looks like a lot of food,” Marcy said quietly when he returned to the back cell with the tray. “But you’re a big male. Did they give you more because I’m here?”

“No, but there is food in the caverns.”

“Ah, yes. Your fish.”

She met his gaze with limpid innocence, but he was quite sure she still doubted his story.

“And other things. Some of the fungi are edible, and I catch an occasional small mammal.”

Her face turned even paler than usual. “That sounds… nice.”

“I suspect you mean the exact opposite, but there is plenty here. Unless—do you have restrictions on your diet?”

He had already started planning how to accommodate any restrictions when she shook her head.

“Fortunately, my stomach has never been sensitive. Now tell me about the food.”

He explained each item, watching in satisfaction as she ate. Once she was finished, he quickly consumed the rest and returned the tray for pickup.

“Are you sure you’re not still hungry?”

Only for another taste of her, but that would have to wait. He settled her on the cot, then walked over to the curtain of lichen that concealed the entrance to the underground caverns. When he stroked his hand down the fine strands, it darkened, plunging the cell into darkness.

“So that’s how you do it,” Marcy said thoughtfully. “Is it a biochemical reaction to your skin?”

He laughed as he lay down next to her and pulled her into his arms. “Actually, it seems to be based on the orientation of the strands. Now stop thinking and go to sleep, little blossom.”

“You know there’s only one way to stop me thinking,” she whispered, her fingers skating across his chest.

“Tomorrow,” he promised against her ear, smiling as she shivered.

He wrapped his arms and wings around her and watched as she settled into sleep. He began reviewing his plans again, but her soft little body against his side comforted him and he only lasted a little longer before following her into sleep.

CHAPTER NINE

M arcy woke up feeling warm and comfortable. Even her organic cotton sheets and over-stuffed hypoallergenic comforter had never felt as good as being wrapped in S’quent’s arms. Not only his arms but his wings were also wrapped around her, enveloping her in a blanket of safety.

I really should be more upset, she thought to herself. She’d been kidnapped, stolen from her home, her work, but somehow, lying here in S’quent’s arms, it really didn’t seem that bad. How long would it take before her parents even noticed that she was gone, she wondered. She was sure they would make some effort to search for her, once they noticed, but would they really care? Then again, she had stopped believing that they cared for her long ago.

Now she had S’quent—or at least she had him for now. She was intelligent enough to realize that if whoever had given her to him decided to take her back, there would be very little that either of them could do about it. At least the fact that he’d insisted her presence was to be kept secret sounded as if he meant for her to stay with S’quent.

Which means I have my very own bat man and my own bat cave to explore, she thought with a smile.

And speaking of exploring… Last night he had promised to let her touch him tomorrow and she was sure this was a new day. She ran her fingers slowly down his stomach, admiring the iron muscles beneath the velvety soft skin. His cock was still encased in its velvety sheath, but she ran her hand along the thick ridge. The broad head began to emerge, and she could feel it hot and slick against her fingers when she circled it curiously. She was just wondering if she could bend down and examine it more closely when S’quent’s hand clamped down over hers.

“Little blossom, what are you doing?”

Even though he had grabbed her hand, he wasn’t preventing her from moving it and she continued lightly circling the tip.

“It’s tomorrow.”

“I suppose so. Why?”

“You said I could touch you tomorrow.”

He laughed, and she could feel the rumble vibrate throughout her body.

“You are correct as always, blossom. Although this isn’t quite what I had in mind.”

“Am I doing it wrong?”

“Not at all. I meant the location.”

She remembered what he had said about not attracting attention, but she didn’t want to lose this chance to explore him. And he wasn’t stopping her, even though his hand was still covering hers.

“Then you’ll just have to be quiet,” she said, gripping him a little tighter.

“You are making that a challenge.”

“Show me,” she whispered. “Show me how you like to be touched.”

“I like to be touched by you.”

She smiled, but shook her head. “You know what I mean.”

He guided her hand down over his sheath and up again. More of his cock emerged with the stroke, and she caressed the exposed shaft. As she did, she felt the same tingling sensation as when he licked her.

“It’s like your tongue, isn’t it?”

“Yes. It too is designed to stimulate.”

His tongue felt amazing inside her, but the thought of his massive cock stretching her open, stroking every inch of her channel with that tantalizing touch, made her shiver with anticipation.

“When?”

He didn’t pretend to misunderstand. “Not until you are ready. And before you tell me that you’re ready, remember that you are very small. I will need to stretch you and prepare your body.”

“All right,” she said immediately. “Can we start today?”

He jerked at her question, and another inch of his shaft emerged.

“Yes, little blossom, but definitely not here.”

“That’s fine. I’m not through exploring anyway.”

Taking advantage of his distraction, she bent down and gave the tip of his cock a tentative lick. Mmm. Cool and spicy, like his kiss, but with the tang of something wilder. She took a second, more confident lick, and his body jerked again, almost hard enough to toss her off the cot. He murmured an apology and wrapped his wings around her once more. She liked that. She liked the two of them enclosed in the shelter of his wings as she did dirty things to him.

Remembering some of the things she’d read, she tried to take him in her mouth, but she could only manage the very tip. He didn’t seem to mind, groaning again as she swirled her tongue around everything she could reach.

“You have to be quiet,” she reminded him.

“Yes, blossom,” he said immediately, and then he showed her how to grip his shaft while she sucked on his cock. His grip was much firmer than she would have used, but he seemed to enjoy it so she continued the motion—stroking up and down as she licked and sucked until his body tensed beneath hers.

“I’m about to climax,” he warned her, but she had no intention of stopping. She gripped him tighter still and sucked harder. A deep echoing cry filled the room as a flood of hot liquid filled her mouth. She did her best to swallow it down, but there was too much and she had too little experience. She lost some of the delicious liquid.

“I’m sorry I didn’t get it all. I’ll do better next time,” she said apologetically.

His body started to shake, and for a moment she was concerned. Was he laughing at her? Before she had a chance to worry about it, he pulled her back up his body and buried his face in her neck.

“If you get any better, I may shout down the entire prison,” he mumbled against her skin. She could hear the smile in his voice, and she relaxed.

“You were supposed to be quiet,” she said, mock sternly.

“And I failed miserably. You are very bad for my self-control, little blossom.”

She chose to take that as a compliment.

“Can we go to the caverns now?”

“Soon. They will deliver the morning meal shortly.”

She didn’t really mind waiting as long as they could stay tucked together. Her body still hummed with unexpected arousal. She hadn’t realized that pleasing him would be so stimulating.

“Can you really see in the dark?” she asked him, trying to distract herself from the ache between her legs.

“To a certain extent, although it is a different kind of vision. Based more on heat than sight.”

“What if everything’s the same temperature?” she asked absently, trying to surreptitiously rub her aching nipples against his chest.

“Then I use my echolocation,” he said before rolling over on top of her. “If you keep wiggling against me, little blossom, we won’t make it until breakfast.”

“I don’t mind,” she said breathlessly, before her common sense reasserted itself and she sighed. “But I suppose you’re right. I’ll be good.”

“You are already very… very… good.” He punctuated each pause with a kiss, and she would have tugged him down for more when he lifted his head. “Our meal is here. I will return shortly.”

She could hear a faint conversation and realized that S’quent was right to be cautious; they weren’t as secluded as the intimate cave suggested. When he returned, she asked if he had been talking to the guard.

“It is perhaps more accurate to say that he was talking to me. Apparently, my cry was heard.” He sighed. “You are a dangerous female, little blossom.”

She laughed and blushed and couldn’t think of anything to say so she concentrated on the meal instead. Once again, he let her choose the portions of the meal she enjoyed before finishing what remained. As soon as they were through with breakfast, he led her through the lichen curtain and back down to the caverns.

“Look, you have something trapped in your net. Although it doesn’t look like a fish,” she added, walking towards the waterfall.

He sighed and went to retrieve it. When he returned, he handed it to her silently. It appeared to be made out of wood, or perhaps a length of vine, polished smooth with a faint but discernible line along the center.

“It’s a type of puzzle box,” he said. “The secret to the catch is—” He stopped speaking as she carefully pulled it open, and he couldn’t help but laugh. “I should have known you could open it.”

Inside the box was a large, thin leaf, marked with apparently random lines, along with a small woven bag filled with seeds.

“Where did this come from?”

He sighed again. “It is a long story, but perhaps this is the right time to tell you.”

He sat on one of the flattened boulders and pulled her onto his lap.

“This planet is inhabited, despite all records to the contrary. The note and the seeds are from the race who live here—they call themselves the Maki’pinga. They live in the trees and have little use for technology, although they have an encyclopedic knowledge of the jungle plants and how to use them.”

“I don’t understand. If people were already living here, in the jungle, why did they clear the land to build the prison?”

“An excellent question. As I said, they do not have any advanced technology and everything they use is composed of natural materials. It would be almost possible to believe that it was an unintentional oversight.”

“Except that you don’t believe it.”

“I know it’s not true. Not only was their land destroyed, but the males of the species were also enslaved.”

“Oh my God. That’s terrible.”

“It gets worse. They are enslaved on Yaras.”

Her eyes widened in horror. “You allow slaves on your planet?”

“Technically, slaves are allowed anywhere within the Kaisarian Empire, as long as all Imperial laws regarding their health and wellbeing are followed. But we have never practiced slavery on Yaras,” he added hastily.

“I thought you said the Maki’pinga were enslaved?”

“They were classified as animals, as non-sentient, even though that is clearly incorrect.”

“How do you know?”

“Because I discovered one of them. He was dying, but we managed to communicate before he did. My investigation led me here.”

“Is that why you were imprisoned?”

“Clever little blossom. You are correct, although there were other… factors.”

“And that’s why you’re working on this project. To help the jungle reclaim the land.”

“Exactly. We use the river to communicate. I drop messages into the stream, and they send them the same way.”

“How close are you to finishing?”

“A few weeks, perhaps even less. According to this message,” he nodded at the leaf, “the last solution I sent them was successful. Now it is just a question of identifying key trigger points.”

“I see.”

On one hand, she was glad he’d found a way to help the people who lived here, but if his project was only a few weeks from completion, what would happen then? Would he leave the planet? And what would happen to her when he did?

“What is it, little blossom?” he asked softly. “You look troubled.”

Her question hovered on the tip of her tongue, but for once, she didn’t want to know the answer. She shook her head instead.

“I’m just sorry that even out here, people treat each other so badly.”

“Not everyone does, blossom,” he said, softly stroking her face.

“I know.” She managed a smile, then looked past him to the leaf on the table. “Can you teach me to read the Maki’pinga language?”

The change of subject was successful. He laughed and shook his head.

“Oh yes, blossom, I will teach you anything you wish to know.”

“That’s good.” She hopped up from his lap, then gave him what she hoped was a seductive smile. “Because I want more of the other kind of lessons as well.”

The lessons—both kinds—went very well, and she was ready for bed when they returned to the top cell that evening. As she snuggled against him, on the verge of sleep, he suddenly tensed and rose, leaving her alone on the cot. He disappeared into the front cell, and a short time later she heard another muffled conversation. When he returned, he kneeled on the floor next to her.

“One of the other prisoners is making an escape.”

Her heart started to beat faster.

“Do you want to go with them?”

He shook his head. “There is still work to be done. But I believe he is a good male and he is accompanied by a human female. Do you want to go with them?”

“Without you?”

“I would join you as soon as my work is done,” he promised, but she was already shaking her head.

“No, not without you.”

Even in the dimness, she caught the white flash of his fangs as he smiled.

“Good.” He hesitated. “But I think I will send a message with him.”

“Will the Maki’pinga get it?”

“Of course. They’re aware of everything that happens in the jungle. And perhaps the fact that he carries it will encourage them to communicate with him.”

“That sounds like a good idea. Give him the puzzle box and hurry back to me.”

CHAPTER TEN

T he next few days passed in a blur of lessons—lessons in Yarasan and lessons in Maki’pinga and lessons in the language of their bodies. Marcy found all of them fascinating, although S’quent still insisted that she was not yet ready to take him. In spite of that one restriction, she thoroughly enjoyed the rest of their time together. She was noting the results of one of his experiments when she looked up and found him watching her.

“What is it?” she asked.

“You were singing.”

“I was?” Her cheeks began to heat. “I’m sorry. I tend to do that when I’m working. When I’m relaxed and… happy.”

“You are happy here?”

“Well, yes. I suppose that sounds strange, but in some ways it’s not that different from my life on Earth. I have things to learn and work to do, and I feel… safe. Nothing in this cave hurts me.” She took a deep breath, sure her cheeks were on fire. “In fact, it’s better than Earth because there I was alone. Here, I have you.”

Silver flames burned in his eyes as he reached for her.

“I think it is time for another lesson, little blossom.”

A LONG TIME LATER, she curled against him on their mossy bed. Her body was limp and relaxed, her thoughts lazy and peaceful as she ran her fingers across the velvety softness of his skin. Were all Yarasans like him?

“What were your parents like?” she asked curiously.

He stared up at the rocks overhead. “It’s… complicated. My father was very busy, of course, but he always made time for me. He taught me to hunt and began my warrior training. My mother liked to play games with me. She told me stories and encouraged my interest in the books.”

“They sound like good parents.”

“They were, individually. It was more difficult when all of us were together.”

“Why?”

“Because my father had been in love with another female. I suspect perhaps he still was—and so did my mother. It was hard on her, on both of them.”

How sad. She couldn’t imagine living with a man—having a family with him—knowing that he didn’t love her.

“What happened to them?”

His body stiffened. “They died in an accident when I was twelve. At least, I thought it was an accident.”

“You don’t know?”

“I never discovered any evidence to the contrary, but I wasn’t looking for it at the time. But I’ve had a long time to think since I’ve been here, and I’ve begun to wonder if perhaps it wasn’t an accident after all.”

He stared off into the distance, his claws tapping together slowly, until she put her hand on his arm. Then he turned and smiled down at her, obviously shaking off the memory.

“What about your parents, little blossom? What were they like?”

“I’m not really sure I know,” she said slowly. “My father was wealthy—very wealthy—but it was never enough. As far as I can tell, it was the only thing that ever really mattered to him.”

In some ways, she was grateful. His wealth had allowed for the special provisions to make her life easier, had paid for doctors and attendants, and all of her physical needs, but she wished she had seen any sign that he cared for her.

“I saw very little of him,” she added.

“And your mother?”

The familiar pang of sorrow welled up inside her. “I saw a lot more of her. She spent a good part of my life watching over me like a hawk. A bird of prey,” she added at his confused look.

“That does not sound… loving.”

“I think you’re right, but at the time, I thought she watched over me because she cared.”

“You no longer think that was true?”

“No. When I decided to make a home of my own, she objected, of course, and I was worried that she would try and take over.” She had been so determined to fight for the life she wanted, but it hadn’t been a fight after all. “But as soon as I left, it was like she forgot about me. At first, she called me every week, but it was more as if she was checking something off her list than because she really cared about how I was doing. The second year, she called me once a month. By the time I was taken it was down to Christmas and my birthday.”

She had adapted and continued to carve out the life she wanted—a life she could control—but it had taken a long time before she stopped missing her mother’s presence.

“After a while, I started thinking that maybe the reason she was so diligent about caring for me when I lived with them was simply to make sure that my father wasn’t inconvenienced. Or maybe to make it up to him for having a defective child.”

He growled. “You are not defective, little blossom.”

Unexpected tears sprang her eyes, but she gave him a watery smile. “Perhaps defective isn’t the right word. But I was not well equipped for life.”

“On Earth,” he said firmly. “You are well equipped for life on Folsom and—”

“And?” she prompted when he halted.

“And for life on Yaras,” he continued at last. “I had not thought much beyond the destruction of the prison, but I suppose I shall have to return home.”

Her heart started to thud against her ribs. “You want me to go with you?”

His eyes gleamed silver. “You will not escape me so easily, little blossom. You are mine.”

“Yes,” she whispered.

Did that mean he had finally decided she was ready? He started to reach for her again, then shook his head and stood up instead.

“I’m afraid it is time to return for the midday meal.”

She could have cried with frustration, and her face must have reflected her annoyance because he paused long enough to kiss her, lingering until she was clinging to his arms.

“After our meal,” he promised, then lifted her into his arms and carried her back to the cell.

S’QUENT SMILED as he watched Marcy push all of the sarlan steak to one side for him. He always insisted that she have first choice from their meals, but she had quickly noticed which foods he preferred. His sweet little mate. She hummed with pleasure as she took a bite of fruit, and his cock jerked within its sheath. She hummed the same way when she licked him.

It was time, he decided. She had accepted his claim, and she could take two of his fingers now. As soon as they returned to the cavern, he would make her completely his. He waited impatiently for her to finish, his own appetite vanishing. Or at least, his appetite for food.

He was watching her so intently that he almost missed the warning hum. As soon as he recognized the sound, he grabbed her to his chest and wrapped his wings around her. He was just in time. The lights in both cells sprang to life, blinding in their intensity. He found them more annoying than painful, but he suspected that they would have triggered one of Marcy’s attacks.

“S’quent?” she whispered, her voice shaking. “What happened?”

“Fucking Ratchi wants to speak to me. He’s the one who brought you to me.”

Her fingers clutched him desperately. “Don’t let him take me away from you.”

“Never,” he growled. He would do whatever it took to keep her with him.

The lights dimmed, then went out. He cautiously opened his wings and looked down at her. Her face was even paler than normal, and he could see the fear in her eyes, but to his relief, she wasn’t whimpering in pain.

“Did I cover you in time?”

“Yes, thank you. What are we going to do?”

“I’m going to go and find out what he wants. I don’t believe he will play that trick with the lights again, but keep your eyes closed.”

“Do you have to go?”

“I find it’s helpful to know what we’re facing. Be brave, little blossom.”

Her lips pressed together in a firm line, and she nodded. “I will.”

He brushed a kiss across that determined mouth, and forced himself to saunter casually into the outer cell. The Warden’s assistant was waiting outside the bars.

“Ratchi. What an unpleasant surprise.”

“After I’ve been so good to you?” The other male studied him, and S’quent wished he knew what he was hoping to see. “Is she still alive?”

He wondered if he should say no and hide her away, but since he still wasn’t sure why she had been given to him in the first place, he decided the truth was a safer option.

“Yes.”

Ratchi gave him an unpleasant smile. “Good.”

“Is that all you wanted?” He started to turn away.

“No. Your brother wishes to speak to you.”

Anger speared through his veins, but he managed to keep his voice cold.

“What a shame. I have no wish to speak to him.”

“You will speak to him, S’quent, or I will have your cell illuminated twenty-four hours a day.”

It was a potent threat. Marcy wouldn’t be able to remain in the cells under those conditions, and even he would have difficulty dealing with it. He forced himself to shrug casually.

“Then I suppose I must accede to your request.”

“I thought you might see reason.”

Ratchi started to raise the device that controlled the cell door, but S’quent lifted his hand.

“One moment.”

A satisfied smirk crossed the other male’s face, but S’quent ignored it. He refused to leave without telling Marcy what was happening. And without taking other precautions. He hurried back to the inner cell.

“I have to go and speak to my brother,” he told her as he searched through his possessions. Ah, there it was.

“What brother? You’ve never mentioned a brother.”

“I’ll explain when I return. Here.” He handed her the small device, and she gave it a confused look. “This will jam the frequency of the cell door. Press this button as soon as I leave. It’s keyed to my genetic code, and no one will be able to enter until I come back.”

“But you will come back?”

Her eyes were wide and terrified, but her face was still determined.

“Nothing could keep me away,” he promised. “Remember, as soon as I leave.”

He didn’t kiss her this time, afraid that it would make it impossible to leave her. Instead, he marched back to the outer cell.

Ratchi had been joined by two of the hulking Zameetan guards. Interesting. The small male had waited to call them until he was sure that S’quent would come. He wondered if Ratchi was actually foolish enough to think the guards would prevent him if he chose to attack. They would be a slight distraction, nothing more.

The cell door opened and he walked through without comment, pressing his palm against the lock as he did. The door closed behind him and he breathed a sigh of relief. At least no one could get to Marcy until he returned.

The four of them took the elevator from the underground prison to the official prison above. It was like stepping into a different world—a starkly modern contrast to the primitive cells below—but it was equally confining. He almost preferred the hidden cells. At least they made no attempt to disguise what they were.

Ratchi ushered him into what looked like an empty conference room, then pulled up a video feed. His brother appeared on the screen, lounging comfortably in an oversized chair. He recognized the space. The bastard had taken over their father’s quarters.

“Leave us, Ratchi,” S’ning demanded.

“Yes, Regent S’ning.” Ratchi bowed and departed, but S’quent saw the look of dislike on the assistant’s face as he did.

S’ning turned his attention to S’quent.

“Ah, little brother, there you are. You’re looking well.” S’ning didn’t seem pleased by that fact.

“It would be more appropriate for you to address me as Your Highness,” he said coldly, and S’ning’s smile vanished.

“A king without a throne? I hardly think a king in exile deserves such courtesy.”

“No, you don’t think.” He allowed himself to enjoy the suppressed rage darkening his brother’s face for a moment before he shrugged. “But your lack of intellect is not the issue. Why did you want to speak to me?”

“I have been wondering whether or not I acted too hastily. Perhaps there is a way in which you could return to Yaras…”

Maintaining his stoic expression was surprisingly easy. While he had every intention of returning, it was not because of his position. He hadn’t missed any of his ceremonial duties. Still, he was curious as to what S’ning was proposing.

“I suspect there are strings attached,” he said dryly.

S’ning assumed a hurt expression that S’quent didn’t believe for a moment. “I just have one minor condition.”

“And that is?”

S’ning’s face hardened. “Forget Folsom and forget those animals. As long as you are willing to do so, we can return to the way we were before. You could return to the palace and all the pleasures of court life. And of course, you would have access to your laboratories and libraries once more,” he added with a faint disparaging note.

Court life held no interest for him, but he did feel a pang of regret for the books and resources he had once taken for granted.

“While you continue to rule?”

S’ning shrugged. “You know you have no real interest. Or aptitude. You’ve always been much happier with your studies.”

To his eternal regret. He should have paid closer attention to S’ning’s dealings long ago. But the message was quite clear—he could only return as long as he was willing to continue to ignore his brother’s activities.

“Why are you making the offer?”

“It is for the good of our people.” S’ning assumed a sanctimonious expression. “I do not wish them to be concerned about your extended absence.”

In other words, questions were being raised that S’ning did not want to answer. Even though he didn’t trust his brother at all, he was almost tempted to take him up on his offer—just to have the satisfaction of destroying his plans. But he had Marcy to consider now and his project was not quite complete. It wasn’t worth it.

“No.”

The look of shock on S’ning’s face was almost comical.

“You would rather remain in confinement for the rest of your life?”

“At least it is an obvious prison. Being trapped in your lies may be less obvious, but it is far more confining.”

S’ning snarled, finally showing his true character.

“Then remain you will. For the rest of your life.”

He laughed. “Perhaps. But remember one thing, S’ning: justice always finds a way.”

“On Yaras, my justice is the only one that counts.”

“Always, S’ning.”

He stared at his brother until the other male reached forward and turned off the feed, but he saw the hint of uncertainty in his brother’s eyes. Good.

Justice was coming for him.

CHAPTER ELEVEN

M arcy paced back and forth after S’quent left. A thousand scenarios went through her head, each more horrible than the last, until she finally forced herself to calm down. She took one of his journals from the shelf and tried to concentrate on the words, but her usual focus had deserted her.

The sound of someone rattling the cell door made her heart skip a beat. She heard an annoyed mutter, then a low voice.

“I know you are in there, human female.”

As if she would be stupid enough to fall for that.

The voice sharpened. “I wish to speak to you. Do I need to have the cell illuminated so the bars can be removed?”

That threat got her attention. She moved cautiously to the opening that led to the outer cell. A small reptilian male waited on the other side of the bards. He looked harmless enough, but he had eyes like a shark and a chill went down her spine.

“I was told to remain out of sight.”

“I gave that order, but I am rescinding it. Temporarily.”

This must be Ratchi. She didn’t move. “Why?”

“Because I want you to drink this.” He held up a small vial filled with golden liquid.

She still didn’t move. Instead, she put her hands on her hips and glared at him.

“Do I look stupid to you?”

He gave an unpleasant laugh. “No—which is why you will take this and drink it without arguing.”

“That’s hardly a convincing argument.”

“If you do not take it, I will make sure this secret cave of S’quent’s is fully illuminated at all times.”

Her heart skipped a beat. Did he know about the hidden cave?

“You and that winged bastard won’t be able to hide away in the back anymore,” he added, and she did her best to hide her relief.

It was still a potent threat, and she suspected that it would be as painful for S’quent as it would be for her.

“Why do you want me to drink it?”

“Because he has not yet taken the bait.” His eyes traveled over her dismissively, and she was suddenly grateful she was wearing the baggy sweats again. “Perhaps it was not well chosen, but one must work with what one has. Now take it.”

He held out the vial again.

“What is it?”

“Don’t worry. It won’t poison you. You might even enjoy it.”

She very cautiously took the vial from his hand and sniffed it. The scent filled her head—rich and sweet, like honey mixed with exotic spices. When she continued to hesitate, his voice turned deadly.

“Not only will I have the cave illuminated, I will have S’quent strung up while I force you to drink it. There is no alternative.”

She glared at him, doing her best to disguise her fear. If she was in the throes of one of her migraines she would be almost helpless, and the thought of S’quent at the mercy of this male made her stomach hurt.

“All right.”

He didn’t even look triumphant.

“Then drink it. All of it.”

The first sip wasn’t bad—the liquid was a little thick, but it tasted as sweet and spicy as it smelled.

“All of it,” Ratchi demanded, and she took a deep breath, then drained the vial.

“Excellent.” He started to leave then turned back. “If you value your clothing, I suggest you remove it before S’quent returns.”

“Why would I do that?”

He shrugged, a disturbing smile twisting his lips. “You’ll find out soon enough.”

She stared after him. What the hell was he talking about? Of course, she did feel a little warm, but it was probably just aggravation. She returned to the inner cave and stroked her hand along the lichen to make it glow. The soft mossy feel against her fingers sent a shiver of pleasure down her spine. As soft as S’quent’s tongue, she thought, squirming as her clit gave a pulse of excitement.

Her nipples started to throb, and when she absentmindedly pressed her hands to them, the resulting sensation almost brought her to her knees. Her entire body felt flushed and hot, her clit beginning to throb as well. She pulled off her top and was sliding her pants down her legs when she remembered Ratchi’s words. What had he done to her?

The heat between her thighs increased, a fiery, tormenting ache. She yearned to be touched, filled. S’quent, she thought desperately. I need you.

S’QUENT STALKED BACK down the tunnels in the underground prison, ignoring the two guards trailing behind him. He was going to make his bastard brother pay if it was the last thing he ever did.

As soon as he turned into the tunnel that led to his cell, he caught the scents. Ratchi’s dry, papery smell was overlaid by another, rich and potent. He recognized it immediately. Breeding liquid. In small quantities, the liquid was designed to enhance sexual pleasure. In larger quantities, it created a fierce and almost irresistible need for sex—not only in the one who took it but in anyone who encountered them.

The guards did not have his olfactory senses, but even they were beginning to sniff the air curiously. Fucking Ratchi. What had he done to Marcy? A mixture of fury and fear raced through his veins and his pace increased. Blont laughed.

“Never seen an inmate in such a hurry to get back to the cell, have you, Qichi?”

Qichi only grunted, still sniffing. “What’s that smell? Reminds me of the brothel on Zavak.”

Blont sniffed as well, then shrugged. “Maybe. But it will be another two months before we get to go back there. You got any more of that hot lotion, S’quent?”

He forced himself to slow his pace and shrug, even though the need to make sure that Marcy was safe was tearing at him. It wouldn’t help her if the guards discovered her because of his foolishness.

“Perhaps. What do you have to trade?”

One of the ways he bribed the guards was with medicines made from the plants in the cavern. The so-called hot lotion heated the skin, and many of the guards liked to use it when masturbating. It was a long six months between their leaves.

Blont wanted to bargain, and S’quent forced himself to stand and listen, even though the honeyed scent filled his head as they stood outside his cell. His cock throbbed and swelled, already pushing free of his sheath and barely hidden beneath his shorts. He managed to touch the cell door before Blont unlocked it, and as soon as it was open he slipped inside, pulling it shut behind him.

“Come and see me when you have the materials,” he said over his shoulder as he headed for the rear cave.

As soon as he came through the passageway, the scents washed over him—the rich honey of the breeding liquid and the spicy sweetness that was purely Marcy. His cock emerged completely as he looked over and saw her on their cot. A fine sheen of moisture covered her pale skin, making her gleam in the dimness like an ethereal vision. But the hard nubs of her nipples and the pearls of moisture on her pale curls were wonderfully real. She was touching herself—one hand clutching at a swollen nipple and the other working between her thighs as she shifted back and forth restlessly.

“Marcy.”

Her eyes opened at the sound of his voice, and then she launched herself into his arms, rubbing her body frantically against his.

“S’quent, help me.”

The delicate silk of her naked skin rubbed against his aching shaft, and only the merest shred of self-control kept him from plunging into her. He clamped his hand on her ass, trying to keep her still, trying to prevent the tormenting motion of her body, but as he did, his thumb slipped into the silken heat between her thighs. She shuddered, and cried out his name, her body quivering in his arms. His own thoughts were clouded by his increasing need but he retained enough clarity to know they mustn’t be discovered.

Keeping her pressed against his chest, he slipped through the entrance to the caverns. As he flew down off the ledge, she escaped his grip long enough that he felt the wet kiss of her tiny cunt against the head of his cock. It would be so easy to thrust, just a little, into that waiting haven, but two things stopped him. He did not want to hurt her, and he wanted to make sure that she was aware of what she was requesting.

As soon as he landed, he carried her to the mossy ledge by the pool that was one of their favorite spots. Her eyes opened as she tried as he tried to put her down, their opalescent gleam reflecting the pinks and purples of the plants.

“Don’t leave me,” she begged.

“I will never leave you, little blossom,” he promised. The words echoed in his head before a wave of need washed over him and he focused on her again. He closed his mouth over a pale nipple and she cried out, her body shuddering again. Even before her body stopped shaking, she grabbed his hand and pulled it down between her legs.

“I need you inside me. I feel so empty.”

He didn’t hesitate to obey, pressing his finger up into her sweet little cunt. As soon as he did, she climaxed again, squeezing his finger as his cock ached with longing.

“More,” she demanded, and he obeyed.

She climaxed again when he inserted a second finger, then once again demanded more. This was as far as they had ever gone, and he hesitated, trying to think past the need overwhelming his own body. Some of it came from the scent of the breeding liquid, but most of it was from the desire he had been suppressing for what felt like an eternity.

“Please, S’quent. I need more.”

He carefully added a third finger. She was tight, almost impossibly so, but she was also wet and hot and urging him on. He brushed his thumb across her clit as he pressed all three fingers deep inside her and she exploded again, her body convulsing in his arms as her tight little channel pulsed around him and his own cock threatened to explode.

When she finally stopped shaking, she looked up at him and she no longer seemed completely lost to the lust that had overwhelmed her body. Relief filled her face as she smiled up at him.

“I knew you’d help me.”

“Always, little blossom.”

He started to pull his fingers free. Her body arched as he withdrew them, her channel clinging to his digits.

“Make love to me, S’quent,” she whispered.

Yes. He forced his instinctive response back under control.

“I am concerned that the breeding fluid is still affecting you.”

“Breeding fluid?” The delicate brows drew together, and then she nodded. “That’s what Ratchi gave me?”

“Yes. It’s an intense aphrodisiac.”

“You can say that again,” she muttered, then bit her lip.

He saw her body tremble as that delicate hint of color flushed her cheeks.

“Don’t worry, little blossom. I will continue to ease you until it passes.”

Her body was flushed and trembling, her nipples like twin gems, but her eyes were clear.

“I don’t just want you to ease me. I want you to make love to me. Unless…” She turned her head away, no longer looking at him.

“Unless what?” he demanded.

“Unless you don’t want me.” The words were quiet, uncertain, and he stared at her in disbelief.

“Not want you? Little blossom, I have never wanted anything more.”

She looked back up at him, her face so filled with happiness that his chest ached.

“Really?”

His ability to reason disappeared. His female wanted him, needed him, and he would never disappoint her. He placed the head of his cock at her entrance and pushed. For the briefest moment, her body resisted, but then it began to open, sheathing him in an impossibly tight grip. She was small, but she was hot and wet and willing as he slowly, carefully, let himself slide into her. Her small channel began quivering before he was even halfway inside, the fluttering pulses urging him on, but he refused to hurry. He sank his claws into the rock and pushed deeper and deeper until they were locked together. Her eyes drifted open, wide and wondering.

“I had no idea.”

“Neither did I,” he admitted. Nothing had ever felt this right, this perfect. Not just the perfection of their physical joining, but Marcy herself. His other half.

“But it gets better,” he whispered, bending his head to her ear and licking the delicate curve.

She shivered, then gasped as her channel tightened around him.

“You mean like that?”

He laughed. “Yes, blossom. And more.”

As he started to withdraw, the fine papillae that covered his cock stroked the inside of her channel and she cried out. Her body tightened around his again, and his long-held control vanished as he showed her over and over how much better it could be, until his seed finally erupted in hot, draining pulses that left him limp and empty.

He tucked her into his arms and wrapped his wings around them both, filled with a vast contentment. In spite of the prison, in spite of his brother’s schemes and Ratchi’s manipulations, he had never been happier.

CHAPTER TWELVE

M arcy snuggled closer to S’quent as his wings surrounded them. She loved being close to him like this, loved the slight persistent ache between her thighs, loved the way his hand stroked her back. She could still feel a lingering warmth from the breeding fluid, but the urgent need had vanished.

“Thank you,” she whispered.

“For what, little blossom?”

“For taking care of me. For preparing me,” she added. His size had been overwhelming, but not painful, and she knew it was because of the time he had taken to make sure she was ready.

“I enjoyed every moment touching your sweet little body. And I intend to do much more of it in the future.” She wiggled restlessly, and he laughed. “Once you have recovered.”

She pouted at him, but he was undoubtedly right. His mention of the future also made her start thinking about the events that had led to this moment.

“You said you have a brother?”

He sighed and sat up, keeping her in his arms as he carried her to the hot spring. He settled them on the underwater ledge before he continued.

“I suppose it’s time to have that discussion.”

Despite his acknowledgement, he didn’t say anything else.

“Your brother?” she prompted. “Is he older or younger?”

“Older. He’s been acting as Regent since my parents died.”

“Regent? I thought that term only applied if someone was acting for a monarch?” A horrible suspicion crossed her mind. “Are you some kind of royalty?”

“Technically, I am King of Yaras,” he admitted. “Although as I said, my brother has been acting as Regent for years now.”

Her heart ached as she realized what this meant. He had said she was his, but she could never be a queen. She pushed aside the hurt, unwilling to spoil the afterglow of their first time together. She focused on what he was telling her instead.

“Wait a minute. Didn’t you say he’s your older brother? Doesn’t that make him the rightful king?”

He frowned down at the steaming water. “I’m afraid it’s not that straightforward. In order to be crowned king, you must be accepted by the Selection Stone.”

“What’s that?”

“It creates an actual genetic link between the king and the throne. S’ning was not accepted.”

“Why not?”

“It’s not always clear. Do you remember I told you that my father was in love with another female? Most rulers have their mates tested. If they are accepted, then there is a strong chance that their children will be as well. But S’ning’s mother was rejected, even though she was rumored to be one of the most beautiful and accomplished ladies of the court.”

Her heart sank even further. If a beautiful, accomplished female had been rejected, what chance would she stand?

“Why was she rejected?” She was proud of how calmly she spoke.

“I do not know, although now that I have discovered my brother’s true nature, I wonder if she had that same streak of cruelty. Because the Selection Stone rejected her, my father chose not to marry her. I don’t know if she was already pregnant with S’ning, or if she became pregnant in an attempt to change his mind. It didn’t work. My father acknowledged S’ning, of course, but he was never the heir. In due time, he met my mother. The Selection Stone approved her and I was born.”

“And I’m guessing S’ning never accepted that?”

“I suspect not. When I was very young, he was unkind, even though he always made it seem as if I was overreacting. But he became nicer as I grew up—or perhaps he simply learned to disguise his emotions better. There is a considerable age difference between us. My parents died before I was of legal age, and he was appointed as Regent. I had no objections. I was busy with my studies, and I never had much taste for court life. I was in no hurry to assume the throne, so he was free to do whatever he wished.”

“What happened?” she asked softly.

“I discovered he was using the Maki’pinga as workers in the mines. It’s a dangerous job and difficult for Yarasans because of our size and wings. One of them escaped, and I found him as he was dying.” His eyes closed at the memory. “My brother assured me they were merely trained animals, but I wasn’t convinced. I began to study them, to see if I could understand their language.”

“Why couldn’t you? I’ve understood everybody who has spoken to me, even when I didn’t want to.”

“Because their language was never entered in the Imperial data records.” He was frowning at the water again. “When I discovered that, it only aroused my curiosity. I learned to communicate with them enough to realize that they had been taken from Folsom.”

“What did you do?”

“I went to my brother, of course. I was naïve enough to believe that it was a misunderstanding. He pretended to be shocked, and promised to bring me to their planet so we could investigate.” He laughed bitterly. “I played right into his hands. As soon as we arrived here, I was taken to see the Warden—just to make the introductions, of course. We drank tea, and I woke up in my cell.”

“As much as I hate to even ask—why didn’t he just kill you?”

“Because the throne is still linked to my genetic signature. As long as I’m alive, nothing changes. If I were to die, the Selection Stone would reset. My cousin is next in line. I don’t know him well, but from everything I’ve heard, he is a kind, intelligent male—and he would not allow my brother to make the kind of decisions he has been making.”

“I’m so sorry.”

“When I realized that, I actually considered killing myself.” His voice was calm and absolutely neutral.

She shivered and hugged him. “I’m very glad you didn’t.”

“Thank you, little blossom. I made a promise to the Maki’pinga. I promised them that their slavery would end and they would be returned. That this prison which has destroyed so much of their land would be removed. And I intend to keep that promise.”

“That’s the real reason for your experiments.”

He didn’t try to deny it. “I will destroy this place completely.”

She bit her lip as she considered the possibilities. “But what if…?”

“What if what?”

“What if there are others like you? Others who were condemned here through no fault of their own.”

“The Maki’pinga were condemned through no fault of their own.”

“And that was wrong. Just as it would be wrong to assume that everyone here should be condemned. You hear everything that goes on—are you so sure that they’re all evil?”

His mouth was pressed together in a stubborn line.

“Even the guards,” she added. “They’re just doing a job.”

“The Zameetans are a brutal race.”

“All of them? You said you bargained with them for your journals and equipment. Didn’t they do you a favor?”

“For which they were well rewarded.”

“But they didn’t have to do it. I’m sure some of them are terrible and cruel, but maybe some of them aren’t. Maybe some of them are just doing a job.”

“I do not wish to discuss this any further.”

She didn’t either, not when they had just been so close. And not when their time together might be coming to an end soon.

“How long?”

“No more than a few weeks, I think.” His face softened. “Don’t worry, little blossom. I will keep you safe.”

Somehow, that made her heart ache even more, but she managed a smile. Then she trailed her fingers down across the damp velvet of his chest to caress his sheath.

“You know, the warm water really helps. I’m feeling much better.”

“Indeed?”

He mimicked her gesture, his thick finger sliding gently through her swollen folds. Her clit throbbed, sending a pulse of excitement through her body, but when he probed a little deeper she winced.

“Not yet,” he said firmly.

She knew he was right, but even that brief touch seemed to have reawakened the need created by the breeding fluid. Her body moved restlessly and his eyes gleamed silver.

“But there are other delightful alternatives,” he murmured, lifting her onto the rocks surrounding the pool before using his mouth and tongue to drive her into another shuddering climax.

For once, he ignored his experiments and they spent the rest of the day simply being together. They talked a lot, but only about neutral subjects. She told him about Robin’s winged hero—which he found highly amusing—and he told her more about Yaras. Most of the planet was mountainous, but the permanent cloud cover created a lush greenhouse effect, with a wide variety of native plants. It sounds beautiful, she thought wistfully. He had promised to take her there, but how long would it be before he abandoned her for a more suitable female?

The breeding fluid periodically sent additional waves of heat through her body, and each time he took care of her—slowly, gently, and thoroughly. It wasn’t until it was almost time to return to the cell for the night that he entered again. Despite his gentleness, she was still swollen and his sheer size threatened to overwhelm her. Tears sprang to her eyes as he filled her and he immediately stopped.

“I knew it was too soon.”

“No!” She wrapped her legs around him to hold him in place. If their time together was limited, she didn’t want to miss a minute of it. “Just give me a moment to adjust.”

“Are you sure, blossom?”

“I’m positive.”

He remained perfectly still, but she could feel his papillae stroking the inside of her channel, awakening all the sensitive nerve endings. The pleasure began to overcome the slight burn as he lowered his mouth to her neck and his fangs scraped the delicate skin. She suddenly remembered a vampire novel she’d read.

“Do you want to bite me?”

“Oh, yes.” His deep voice rumbled against her skin as he sucked lightly on her neck. “But not here. And not now.”

He reached between their bodies and began to circle her clit. The last of the burn disappeared in a wave of pleasure, and she tightened her legs around him.

“More,” she demanded, and he laughed and obeyed, sending her soaring into two climaxes before shuddering through his own release.

Perhaps there was a way they could still be together, she thought optimistically as he carried her limp body back to the cell. Maybe a king could have a concubine? The thought of herself as a concubine made her want to giggle, and she was smiling when he placed her on their cot. He was about to join her when his head tilted, listening.

“That’s interesting. I’ll be back shortly, little blossom.”

He didn’t seem worried, but her pulse still raced as she waited for him to return. There was another quiet conversation, and she was almost tempted to sneak closer.

“It’s very annoying not to know what’s happening,” she told him when he returned.

“I know, blossom. I don’t like keeping you in the dark back here either.” He gave her an apologetic kiss before wrapping his wings around them.

“Who were you talking to?”

“A member of the Imperial Court,” he said thoughtfully. “Do you remember Altrez—the male who escaped?”

“The one you wanted to send me away with?”

“I never wanted you to leave. I just thought you might be safer.”

“I’m glad I didn’t go.”

“As am I. But Leavent is searching for him—Altrez is his brother.”

There was an odd note in his voice, almost of envy. She suspected it was because his own brother was such an evil bastard.

“Does it affect your plans?”

“Perhaps. He will be sending in the Royal Fleet to investigate the prison as soon as he has rescued his brothers. Which means they can return us to Yaras.”

He was still saying us, but how long would that last?

“That’s nice,” she said, her voice carefully neutral.

“It is helpful,” he agreed. “But that means I need to finalize everything as soon as possible. Will you help me?”

“Of course.” Even if it meant their time together was running out.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

S ’quent looked up from his workbench and smiled. It had been a challenging week, but everything was in place. The Maki’pinga had been alerted and the growth pods were in place. He couldn’t have completed everything so quickly without Marcy’s agile brain and nimble fingers. Because of the impending arrival of the Fleet, he had even broken his usual routine and returned to the caverns after lights out to work. She had accompanied him without complaint, and now he tugged her into his arms for a kiss.

“Thank you, little blossom.”

“For what?”

“For your assistance. I’m not sure I could have done it without you.”

She gave him an oddly tremulous smile. “I’m sure you could have done it. Is it time?”

“Yes. Let us return to the cell and wait. The cell walls should protect us, but just in case…”

He handed her the repellent lotion he had developed, and they both coated their bodies before returning to his cell. He hesitated, then retrieved the device he had used to lock the cell.

“I have thought about what you said,” he said slowly. “I will give them one warning.”

He still had his doubts, but she was right. There could be other prisoners who had been trapped as he had been. He opened the cell door and went to the nearest communication panel, overriding the control and broadcasting his words throughout both levels of the prison.

“If you value your life, you will seek immediate shelter within a locked room or cell. This is your only warning.”

When he returned to his cell, she gave him a misty smile.

“Thank you.”

“I hope you are correct.”

He closed the cell door just as Blont came storming around the corner.

“Was that you, S’quent? What the hell are you playing at?” His mouth dropped open as he noticed Marcy standing quietly at S’quent’s side. “And how the hell did you get a female in there?”

He shrugged. “Ask Ratchi.”

Blont muttered something, but S’quent wasn’t listening. He tilted his head, waiting, and finally caught the first slithering sound. He looked back at Blont.

“I meant what I said.”

Blont stared at him for another moment, then took off at a run. The first vine slithered up the tunnel a moment later, as thick around as his thigh and a deep blood red. It hovered outside the cell for a second, and his body automatically began to prepare for battle, but then it slithered past. More vines followed, and then the screaming began.

Marcy swayed at the first cry, and he swore under his breath before picking her up and carrying her into the rear cell. He should have realized how much it would upset her.

“You should wait in the caverns,” he urged.

“Will you come with me?”

“I need to remain here and monitor progress.”

“Then I’ll stay too,” she said, pale but determined. “Although, can we wait back here?”

“Of course.”

He picked her up and carried her to the cot. She buried her head against his chest, and he covered her with his wing. The noises were more muffled here, and she gradually relaxed. He suspected she was almost asleep when the prison finally went silent. He hated to disturb her, but it was time to deal with the Warden. And with Ratchi.

“Wake up, little blossom. We need to go.”

She lifted her head and tried to smile at him, but he could feel her trembling.

“Are you sure you wouldn’t rather remain here?” he asked. “It might be… upsetting.”

“No!” Her hands tightened on his arms. “Please don’t leave me.”

“Of course not. But let me know if you change your mind,” he said sternly.

She nodded and took his hand as he led her out of the cell. The corridor was filled with vines, not just the thick red ones, but a smaller silvery one with curly tendrils and a hair-like blue one. They lay mostly quiescent, but it felt as if they were waiting. He didn’t blame Marcy for shuddering and moving closer to him.

The lotion continued to work, the vines slithering away from both of them as they made their way towards the arena. The vines had not entered any of the closed cells, although they passed at least one where an encapsulated figure rested in the half-open door. He hoped Marcy didn’t notice that it was still moving. The door to the guard office was closed, and he suspected that Blont had made it back but he didn’t stop to check.

They reached the Pit—the huge cavern that had been used as the arena for the Warden’s illegal fights. The walls were now covered with vines, including a new flowering variety, but it was still the fastest way to the upper prison. He lifted her into his arms and flew up to the ceiling, past the bank of lights and video equipment to the utility catwalk.

“I need you to wait here for just a moment while I disconnect the lighting. Can you do that?”

She started to shake her head, then gave him a reluctant nod. “I suppose that makes sense. I won’t be much use if I’m in the middle of a migraine.”

“Brave little blossom.” He took her hands and closed them around the catwalk railing. “Just hold on to this until I return.”

He slipped through the doorway, careful not to open it too far, and found the utility panel. It wasn’t difficult to disable all of the lighting throughout the facility. After a brief hesitation, he left the emergency lighting intact. It had a dim red glow which he hoped wouldn’t trigger her headache, and he suspected she would prefer some light.

“Yes, I would,” she said when he returned and asked her. “Being in the dark with all these vines… It’s bad enough when you can see them.”

They made their way through the upper prison. There were more bodies here, and he could feel her trembling increase. All he could do was wrap his wing around her to try and shield her from the sight as he hurried her along. He felt little remorse.

The door to the Warden’s office was open, and he suspected what he would find even before he entered. One of the pale silvery vines was wrapped around what was left of the Warden’s body—little more than a dry, shriveled husk.

Marcy swayed, and he quickly carried her to the big chair behind the Warden’s desk. He pulled the corpse back through the open door, the vine still clinging to it, then closed the doors. The room appeared otherwise intact. He joined her at the desk, pulling up the computer screen and scrolling rapidly through the feeds.

“What are you looking for?” she asked quietly. She seemed calmer now that they were no longer surrounded by vines.

“I’m looking for Ratchi. I suspect it would be very easy to place the blame for everything that has happened here on Warden Nazort, but although he was greedy and easily manipulated, Ratchi was the one actually pulling the strings. He will not escape justice.”

He found the assistant at last, in a room filled with valuable objects, adding the most precious and easily disposable to a small case. A grim smile twisted his lips, before he turned to Marcy.

“Please, blossom, remain here. You don’t want to see this.” And he didn’t want her to see.

She studied his face for a moment, then nodded.

“All right.” She gave the computer a wistful look. “I don’t suppose this thing is in Yarasan?”

He leaned past her and switched the language. “There. Behave yourself while I’m gone.”

“I will.”

He brushed a kiss against her lips and left, closing the door firmly behind him.

MARCY STARED at the closed door, hoping she wasn’t making a mistake by remaining behind. But S’quent seemed very confident, and she was happy to be away from the vines and the bodies. She turned back to the computer. The keyboard was unfamiliar, but she soon found her way into the prisoner records.

She only needed to read through a few of them to know that he was right—they couldn’t simply be released. Sickened, she looked deeper and finally found the special prisoner records. The ones who had been confined for no other reason than because they had inconvenienced someone else. There was even a whole group of small yellow-scaled males who seemed to have been imprisoned for no reason other than to serve the Warden and his men.

She noted the location of the files, but as she closed the folder, she accidentally reopened the last video feed. Her heart skipped a beat as she recognized S’quent. He was advancing on Ratchi as the smaller male cowered away from him. Ratchi looked so helpless, but she remembered their encounter and she wasn’t fooled by the appearance of weakness. He was going to get what he deserved—but that didn’t mean she wanted to see it.

Before she could close the screen, the door to one side of Ratchi started to slide open. She searched desperately for an audio control so she could warn S’quent, but then she realized why the door had opened. A vine slid through the opening, one of the thick red ones. It made its way along the side of the room, but neither male seemed to notice. It paused when it came even with S’quent and her heart skipped a beat, but it slithered past him. And then it reached Ratchi.

She watched in horror as it grabbed the small male’s foot, holding him in place as more of the vine wrapped around him. He struggled wildly, but to no avail. Long thin spikes emerged from the vine, spearing the male’s flesh in multiple places. Even without the sound, she could tell he was screaming. S’quent looked at him, then turned and walked out of the room. Ratchi continued to thrash and scream, and she switched off the screen with a shaky hand.

S’quent rejoined her a moment later, his face grim.

“The vines took him.”

“I know. I saw.” She wasn’t sure she wanted to know, but she asked anyway. “How long will he… live?”

“I don’t know, but I don’t think it will be fast. The Warden was luckier.”

His voice was still cold and grim, and she slipped out of her chair and went to him.

“Are you all right?”

“I don’t know. I expected to feel triumphant. Instead, I feel… sick.”

She wrapped her arms around his waist, and a moment later he pulled her against him, almost clinging to her.

“What now?” she asked, when his grip finally loosened.

“I assume you’re not going to try and convince me to let the other prisoners go free?”

“No. I looked at their records. Many of them are very dangerous criminals.” She bit her lip. “Would it be so bad to continue to have a prison here? Once the jungle is restored?”

“I hadn’t considered that option, but it’s a possibility. We would need to discuss it with the Maki’pinga.”

“Uh, okay. How?”

“We will travel to their closest village.”

“We?”

“Unless you prefer to remain here, little blossom?”

“Absolutely not.”

He laughed and tugged her into his arms. “Good, because I had no intention of leaving you behind. You’re mine, little blossom.”

The word sent a thrill of happiness through her body, but as he carried her quickly back through the hallways and up to the roof, she kept turning them over in her mind. Mine for now? Mine forever? She wanted it to be forever, but even assuming they made it safely off the planet, he was a king and she was a human scientist. It would never work.

She was still turning the subject over in her mind when they reached the roof and he leapt into the air. The short flights in the cavern and the Pit hadn’t prepared her for this. He gave a triumphant cry as he soared into the sky—a dim grey sky, she realized gratefully. A huge purple moon hung low overhead with its smaller, darker sister half-hidden behind its bulk.

He soared so high she was beginning to wonder if they would actually touch that moon before he twisted and plummeted down, spinning wildly. Her stomach dropped with the movement, but he had her securely enclosed in his arms, and she knew to the depths of her soul that he would never let her fall. She hugged him even tighter and felt the now familiar ridge of his erection pressing against her stomach.

“Now?”

He looked down at her and smiled, his face more at peace than she had ever seen it. “Why not now? I am free, and I have the most beautiful, desirable female in the universe in my arms.”

“Me?”

His chuckle reverberated pleasantly against her aching nipples.

“I don’t see anyone else, little blossom.” His voice turned serious. “I would not want anyone else. I meant what I said, Marcy. You’re mine. Now and forever.”

“But you’re a king. And what about your Selection Stone?”

“It makes absolutely no difference. Do you not realize how much I love you?”

“You never said.”

“It was not the place. This is the place.” He slowed his speed, floating on some current in the air. “Do you feel the same way? Or do you want me to return you to Earth?”

“Earth? You could do that?”

He shrugged. “Its location is supposed to be a secret, but apparently it’s a poorly kept one. I’m sure that we could find it. But I warn you, little blossom, if you decide to return, I shall follow you. I will live in one of those caves like your bat man and come out at night looking for you.”

She didn’t even realize she was crying until the cool air brushed against her wet cheeks. “But I don’t want to be with you only at night. I want to be with you in the morning and in the afternoon and all day long, so I think I’d better stay here.”

“Are you sure?”

“Of course I am. I love you too, S’quent.”

He gave another triumphant cry, then bent his head and kissed her. She responded eagerly, feeling his shaft begin to emerge. She was just starting to wonder if they could have sex while flying when he reluctantly lifted his head.

“As enjoyable as this is, little blossom, we need to speak to the Maki’pinga.”

“All right.” But as they turned and headed for the thicker part of the jungle, she added, “Can you have sex while flying?”

The smooth speed of his wings actually faltered for a second, and they dropped a few feet before he swore and resumed flying. “We most certainly can, little blossom, and I intend to prove it to you. Later.”

“Mmm.” She reached up and nibbled on the sensitive shell of his ear, then laughed when his wings stalled again.

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

M arcy wasn’t exactly sure what she expected of the Maki’pinga—but she certainly hadn’t expected furry creatures who were a cross between spiders and monkeys and who lived high in the massive jungle trees. Their village consisted primarily of open-walled huts connected by rope bridges, but she remembered what S’quent had said about their use of natural materials. She also remembered the thorough, detailed information which had been passed on to them.

No one seemed surprised when S’quent landed in the village. An older female came to join them, and he introduced her as Kayora. He had mentioned her before, and from what Marcy understood, she was a combination of healer and wise woman.

The three of them went to Kayora’s hut, and Marcy watched as Kayora and S’quent talked. Kayora spoke mostly in their fast-paced chittering language, and S’quent responded both in their language and his own. She had no trouble with his language, but she only understood a word or two from Kayora. If only they could have communicated in writing, she thought wistfully. At least she would have been able to read it.

Although she was interested in their discussion, the events of the day weighed on her and her eyes began to close. S’quent noticed and pulled her onto his lap. She nestled happily against his chest and decided a little nap wouldn’t hurt. Before she could fall asleep, Kayora made an inquisitive noise and S’quent bent over her.

“Little blossom, Kayora wishes to examine you.”

“Examine me? Why?”

“I am not entirely sure.” He frowned thoughtfully. “But I believe that she is both intelligent and well intentioned.”

“I suppose it’s all right.” She’d spent half her life being examined by various doctors—and a jungle hut was far superior to the clinical sterility of most doctor’s offices. “What is she going to do?”

He repeated the question, and Kayora laughed. She reached forward and took Marcy’s hand. Her fingers were long and surprisingly strong, covered with soft dark blue fur. At first, all she did was hold Marcy’s hand. Then she leaned closer and her nostrils flared as she took several long inhales. Her fingers went to Marcy’s neck, then between her breasts, and then to her stomach before she sat back, regarding both of them contemplatively.

Marcy’s heartbeat increased. It had never been a good sign when a doctor didn’t immediately begin talking.

“Is something wrong?” she whispered.

“Of course not,” he said immediately, tightening his arms around her, but she suspected his statement was more protective than knowledgeable.

Kayora leaned forward again and placed her hand directly on Marcy’s stomach.

“Baybeh.”

S’quent’s body turned to stone beneath her.

“D-did you say baby?” she stuttered. “Like—a child?”

Kayora nodded firmly, then rose on her many legs with a weirdly disturbing grace and went to her shelves. Marcy watched blankly as the older female started mixing ingredients.

A baby? How is that even possible?

“We’re not even the same species,” she protested.

“Neither were the extor vines and the osish,” S’quent said slowly.

She turned and glared up at him. “But we’re not plants. It shouldn’t be possible.”

His face hardened, as stern as it had been those first few days. “Are you unhappy that it is possible?”

“Unhappy?” His question stopped her mind from racing through all the questions about how it had occurred. If she truly was pregnant—and she was still a little skeptical—then she was having S’quent’s child. Sudden tears gathered in her eyes. “No, I’m not unhappy at all. I just never thought…”

“Nor did I.”

His face was still unreadable, and her stomach flipped. “Are you unhappy?”

“I am terrified,” he said unexpectedly.

“Terrified?”

“Now I understand why you were given to me. Why Ratchi forced you to take the breeding fluid.”

“I don’t understand.”

He rested his hand lightly, reverently, on her stomach and her heart skipped a beat.

“He wanted you to become pregnant. A child with my genetic signature would prevent the transfer of power. S’ning could kill me and continue to rule.”

She shuddered. “You mean he wanted a pawn. My baby.”

“Our baby,” he said immediately. “I will never let anything happen to either of you, but the thought of what might have happened to the two of you terrifies me.”

“But it didn’t. We’re free, and we’re together.”

“Yes, but it makes it even more imperative to return to Yaras and put an end to S’ning’s schemes.”

“Right now?”

He laughed. “Not at this exact moment. You need to rest. And Kayora says you should drink this,” he added as the older female returned with a steaming mug and chittered at her.

“What is it?”

“I’m not sure, but she says it’s good for the baby.”

She looked from his face to Kayora’s big, dark eyes and took a cautious sip. Mmm. Herbal with a slightly minty tang. She continued to sip as the other two resumed their discussion, and by the time she had finished the mug, she was falling asleep again.

“Come, little blossom,” S’quent murmured, lifting her into his arms. “Time to rest.”

She was asleep before she found out where he was taking her.

WHEN SHE AWOKE, she was surrounded by softly filtered light. Woven vine curtains surrounded a huge nest-like bed. Her clothes had been removed, and the warm air felt wonderful on her bare skin. She was alone, but as soon as she raised her head, one of the curtains opened and S’quent entered.

“How do you feel?” he asked immediately as he came over to her.

She stretched experimentally, then smiled. “Good. Rested. I feel as if I slept for a week. I didn’t, did I?” she added as she remembered the herbal tea.

“No, blossom, only overnight. Although it felt like an eternity to me.”

“Why?”

“Because we did not get a chance to celebrate properly. Because I did not get to tell you how wonderful and perfect and beautiful you are. Because I…”

He stopped, looking unusually hesitant.

“Because you what?”

“Do you remember when I mentioned biting you?”

It had seemed like an exciting idea at the time, but looking at his fangs now, she wasn’t quite as sure. But she trusted him.

“Yes,” she said, a little tentatively.

“It is the traditional way to indicate that you are my mate, and I find that I want that very much.”

“You mean you want to bite my neck?”

“Your neck? Oh, no. This is a very private thing—to be shared only between us.”

“Then where?”

He didn’t respond verbally. Instead, his hand dipped down between her thighs, unerringly finding her clit and stroking it with his thumb. Excitement and a hint of fear shivered down her spine.

“Won’t that hurt?”

“Oh no, little blossom. You will enjoy it very, very much.”

She tensed, expecting him to bite her immediately, but instead he kissed her, slowly, leisurely, teasing her until she was quivering beneath him. He finally left her mouth and moved to her breasts, sucking and licking the sensitive peaks. She felt the scrape of his fangs, but it only added to her excitement as he kept her hovering on the edge of climax.

“There?” she asked.

“Not this time, but one day.”

“Then hurry up.”

He chuckled, but finally moved lower. He rubbed against her clit with his amazing tongue, driving her higher and higher, until her fingernails were digging into his shoulders and her entire body was tight with anticipation. And then he struck. A sharp sting was followed by a wave of pleasure so intense that her vision sheeted white. More waves crashed down over her, her body convulsing as her climax rolled on and on.

WHEN MARCY’S body finally softened, S’quent raised his head. His body screamed for completion, but he paused to admire his mating mark first. Two dark red circles, perfectly framing her delightful little cunt. Her delicate folds glistened, her body still responding to the ecstasy of his bite. The spicy tang of her blood mixed with her sweet essence, coating his tongue, and making his cock throb.

He moved over her, letting his wings spread out around them.

“Are you ready, blossom?”

Her eyes fluttered open, dazed with pleasure, and she smiled.

“Yes, my love.”

He shuddered as he entered her, hotter and wetter than ever. His papillae stroked her small channel, greedily absorbing her essence as the changes wrought by his bite worked their way into her system. His instincts took over, and he plunged deeper, harder than ever before, knowing that she could take all of him, knowing that she was his.

Afterwards, they curled together silently in the small hut, no words necessary to express their happiness. He found himself cupping her stomach, already anticipating seeing it ripen with their child. He could almost be grateful to S’ning for having him imprisoned, for leading him to this moment and this female. Almost.

He didn’t want to think about any future other than that with his mate and his child, but somehow, he wasn’t surprised when Marcy broke the silence.

“What do we do now?”

“We return to the prison.”

She shuddered. “Really? Why?”

“In order to use the communication equipment. If Leavent kept his promise, there should be Imperial ships on route. I will request one of them take us to Yaras.”

“And they’ll just do that?”

“It’s a reasonable request. I’m still the legal ruler of Yaras.”

She didn’t look any more pleased by that thought than he was, but she nodded. “I suppose. When should we go?”

“As soon as possible. You could remain here, if you wished,” he added reluctantly.

To his relief, she immediately shook her head.

“Nope. We stay together.”

“Then we should go while it’s still light.”

She shuddered again and nodded. “I don’t want to be there after dark.”

They reapplied the repellent lotion, and then he helped her put her clothing back on. When they emerged from the hut, Kayora was waiting for them. She handed Marcy a long cloak woven from muted blue and purple vines.

“She says this will protect you.”

“Protect me?”

Kayora nodded, and brushed her fingers lightly over Marcy’s hand. “Sayf.”

She gave him a startled look. “Did you tell her I was sensitive?”

“No, but she seems to know these things.”

“Thank you,” Marcy said slowly and carefully in Maki’pinga, and Kayora beamed with delight.

“We will return,” he promised, then gathered Marcy into his arms and took flight.

The vegetation covering the plain was even thicker now, and the prison almost completely concealed beneath the blood red vines. He touched down cautiously, but the lotion was as effective as before and the vines slithered away.

“I’ll never get used to that,” Marcy whispered.

“Do you want me to carry you?”

“No, let’s just get this over.”

They hurried through the darkened prison to the communication center. The vines were everywhere, but he noticed that many of them were already beginning to shrivel and darken.

“Look. They won’t last much longer.”

“Because of their accelerated growth?” she asked thoughtfully. “You know, if we modified that formula a little, we could probably get a better balance between growth rate and the decay rate.”

He couldn’t help laughing as they stepped into the communication room, thankfully free of vines.

“Little blossom, do you really want to create longer-lasting carnivorous vines?”

“Well, no. But it’s an interesting biological problem.”

“It is indeed,” he agreed as he moved to the main console. “But perhaps one best not pursued.”

“I suppose you’re right.”

Despite her agreement, he suspected her busy little mind was still processing the problem. He was more interested in finding out if the Fleet was actually on their way. The alternative would be to take one of the vehicles in the hangar, then send a message once they were in space, but this would be much more effective.

To his relief, there was an immediate response on the Imperial frequency. A stern voice demanded his information.

“This is King S’quent of Yaras. I require extraction from Folsom for myself and my mate.”

There was only the faintest pause before the officer answered.

“Yes, Your Highness. However, we are also here to investigate the prison.” A faint note of caution entered the male’s voice. “It appears to be somewhat… overgrown.”

“I am aware of that,” he said coolly. “If you send a shuttle to these coordinates, along with whoever is in charge, we can discuss options.”

The officer agreed and signed off, and S’quent turned to Marcy.

“And now we wait.”

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

M arcy had expected they would have to wait for a while, but they had just started discussing where to find food when the communicator pinged again.

“Did you actually leave anywhere to set down a shuttle?” a cold voice drawled.

S’quent smiled.

“Lord Leavent. What a pleasant surprise.”

She could almost hear the other male shrug. “We were returning to Kaisar, so I decided we would stop and see if your… seeds had borne fruit. Apparently they have.”

A sudden desire to giggle made her clamp her hand to her mouth. His seed had indeed borne fruit. S’quent smiled and pulled her closer to him.

“Quite so. If you will land on the roof next to the guard tower, I will meet you there. I have a lotion for you to apply to your skin to repel the vines.”

“Will it damage my female’s skin?”

“It has not harmed my female.”

An oddly thoughtful pause.

“Why do I suspect that your female is human?”

They both heard a quickly muffled squeak of excitement from Leavent’s end.

“Because you are more intelligent than you appear?” S’quent said dryly.

Leavent laughed. “I will land where you directed.”

He ended the call, and Marcy turned to S’quent.

“Do you think he has a human mate?”

“I believe so. In fact, I suspect all three brothers have human mates.”

“Three brothers? I only remember the one you wanted to send me away with.”

He sighed. “I did not want to send you away, blossom. And I did mention the first female. She and Riker escaped the prison before you came.”

She frowned up at him. “The one you… encountered?”

“Yes.”

“How far did that encounter go?”

“Not far at all. I protected her for a night and sent her back to Riker unharmed.”

She had never considered herself a jealous person, but the idea that another female had spent the night with him did not make her happy.

“You are the only one for me, little blossom,” he assured her.

“But—”

He resorted to his usual method and stopped her questions with a kiss. When her body was limp and quivering, he raised his head and smiled down at her.

“My perfect mate.” Then his eyes gleamed silver. “But perhaps another mating bite might help to convince you.”

“Another? Where?”

He cupped her breast, stroking the hard nub of her nipple.

“Perhaps here. Perhaps even an entire ring of them adorning your skin.”

“Now?”

For a moment, she thought he’d actually agree, but then an alarm chimed and he reluctantly put her on her feet.

“I’m afraid not. Time to meet the ship.”

They were waiting when the ship landed on the roof. Her eyes widened as the ramp lowered and a male appeared. He had deep burgundy skin and spiraling horns, and he bore a very close resemblance to some images she had seen of the devil. He leaned casually in the opening, shooting a vine that tried to climb the ramp.

“It occurs to me that there is no reason to actually enter the prison. Why don’t you join us instead?”

“I think that’s an excellent idea. Marcy?”

She looked at the shriveled vine trying to squirm back towards the ramp and shuddered. “I agree.”

“Dim the lights first, Leavent,” S’quent ordered, and she gave him a grateful smile.

“Of course.” Leavent leaned back inside the ship to make an adjustment, then nodded. “All set.”

She climbed up the ramp without a backwards look. As soon as they were on board, a pretty, petite redhead came flying towards them.

“I can’t believe they took another woman. And none of us knew about you.” She smiled at Marcy as Leavent tucked her small body against his side. “I’m Sophie.”

“I’m Marcy. And this is S’quent.”

“This is so exciting. I can’t wait to tell the others.” Sophie looked hopefully up at Leavent. “Maybe we should go back to Votar and make the introductions?”

“I’m afraid not, little cat. We have to deal with this mess here, and S’quent needs to return to his people.”

“I suppose, but you’ll have to come and visit. Just wait until you see the house! It’s old, but it’s big and bright—”

Marcy flinched, and S’quent automatically pulled her closer.

“My mate is sensitive to light,” he said severely.

“Oh no. I’m so sorry. But we could cover the windows, couldn’t we? And turn off the lights?”

Marcy started to laugh, charmed by the other woman’s enthusiasm and her obvious desire to make Marcy feel included.

“I’m sure we can work something out.”

“That’s wonderful.” Sophie slipped out from under Leavent’s arm and took Marcy’s hand. “Now come and tell me all about yourself.”

Marcy gave S’quent an uncertain look but he only smiled at her and she let Sophie pull her along as the males fell in behind. They ended up in a small, comfortable lounge area, but Sophie didn’t get very far with her questions before the males began to talk business.

“The corridors will need to be cleared,” S’quent said. “The vines are dying, but it will take time, and the prisoners will require food and water before that occurs. The Maki’pinga have agreed to let the prison remain, as long as no land is damaged.”

“I will have Commander Carstal and his ship remain behind,” Leavent decided. “They can clear the corridors and take care of the prisoners until more officials can be sent. We will also need to determine who was brought here simply in order to get them out of the way.”

“My mate found those records. I’ll provide the location of the files.”

“Excellent.” Leavent’s face turned grim, looking more than ever like a devil. “I intend to make sure that all of those responsible pay heavily. My brother was one of those treated that way. And as for the Sudra, they may take service in my House or return home, whichever they prefer.”

“Good.” S’quent sighed, and looked at Marcy. “The guards should be treated individually as well. Not all of them were cruel.”

“I agree, and I will let Commander Carstal know. He has a great deal of experience, and I trust his judgment.”

S’quent looked at her again, and she nodded. It seemed like the best solution.

“Then we will accompany you to Yaras,” Leavent continued. “It will be harder for your brother to deny your presence when you’re accompanied by an Imperial cruiser.”

S’quent looked at him for a moment, then bowed his head.

“Thank you, Prince Leavent.”

Sophie’s eyes widened as she looked at her mate. “You’re a prince?”

“Only by the merest technicality,” Leavent assured her. “I must be a thousand people away from the throne in the line of succession.”

“Six hundred and seventy-three, to be precise,” S’quent said.

Leavent laughed. “How do you know that?”

He shrugged. “I was bored one summer and studied the genealogy of the Royal House.”

“Should I call you Prince Leavent?” Sophie asked, her eyes twinkling.

“Lord Leavent is just fine.”

“Yes, my Lord,” she said meekly, but Marcy saw her give her mate a provocative glance and Leavent’s eyes heat in response.

A wave of tiredness washed over her, and she gave S’quent a longing look. He responded immediately, bending down to lift her into his arms.

“Can you show us to our room? My mate is tired.”

“Of course. Follow me.”

Leavent led them to a large cabin, then firmly insisted that Sophie leave them to settle in alone. Marcy had the vague impression of rich furnishings, but everything seemed blurry and far away.

“Are you ill, little blossom? Should I send for a medic?”

“I’m not ill. It’s just all… so much. I miss being alone with you.”

He carried her to the bed and lay down with her, cocooning them in his wings.

“Is this better?”

“Yes. Just the two of us.”

“The three of us,” he reminded her, gently touching her stomach.

“Okay, one more,” she whispered, her eyes already drifting shut. “Can you stay with me?”

“Always, little blossom.”

His words were the last thing she heard before she fell asleep.

She ended up spending most of the trip in their quarters. While Leavent had arranged for the lights to be dimmed whenever she wished to leave, it was much easier to control her environment in their own rooms and she felt less overwhelmed. Sophie frequently came to visit her, usually accompanied by Leavent.

Marcy really liked the other woman. She had a natural sweetness and an understanding heart. She seemed just as much in love with her mate as Marcy was with hers, and equally undisturbed at the prospect of never seeing Earth again.

“I didn’t have much to leave,” she confessed, “Although I did love my house. But I know I’ll be happier here. We’ll be happier here,” she added, her hand covering her stomach.

“You’re pregnant?”

Sophie giggled. “Yes, I am.”

“With Leavent’s child?”

“Yes,” Leavent said immediately from across the room, and Sophie rolled her eyes.

“I was pregnant when I was taken, but Leavent will be her father. Or his father.”

Marcy shot a quick glance at S’quent. He was already looking at her, an amused smile on his face. He raised an eyebrow, and she took it as permission.

“I’m pregnant too,” she blurted out.

“That’s wonderful! We can be pregnancy buddies.”

Sophie hugged her enthusiastically, and even though the smell of her shampoo made Marcy’s nose itch, she hugged her back. It was so nice to have a friend.

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

“T his is Lord Leavent. I am seeking an audience with Regent S’ning.”

Marcy watched anxiously as Leavent waited for the Yarasans to respond. They had decided to let him make the first contact. S’quent’s standing was quite clear, but S’ning had many friends amongst the Council. Leavent’s appearance, not to mention the presence of the Fleet, would be a compelling reminder not to challenge his position.

“Very well,” the Yarasan communications officer replied at last. “You may land at the field next to the Palace.”

She watched through the window as the ship descended. What she could see of the planet was reassuring—tall mountains and heavily forested hills, interspersed with attractive towns built from dark stone. The planet was much further from the sun than Earth, and combined with the constant cloud cover, S’quent was convinced that the sunlight would not bother her.

She still flinched nervously when the doors opened, but he was correct. The bluish light filtering into the ship reminded her of Folsom, and she gave a sigh of relief.

“Stay close to me, blossom,” S’quent ordered, then smiled down at her. “You look far too beautiful. I do not want anyone attempting to steal you from me.”

The clothes did give her courage—a long dress of palest blue with a matching cloak, both created from an artificial silk which thankfully did not irritate her skin. He was wearing dark robes that made him look almost terrifying regal, but he had also donned a pale blue sash that exactly matched her dress.

Leavent led the way, Sophie at his side, and after a brief pause they followed. As soon as they stepped out of the ship, she heard a murmur of excitement from the assembled crowd. Several figures took to the air, and she was sure news of his arrival was spreading.

“Greetings, Regent S’ning. I have wonderful news. Your king has been restored to you.” Leavent’s voice was ice cold, leaving no doubt of his disgust for the male he was greeting.

S’ning stared at them, apparently unable to speak. This was S’quent’s brother? The one who had caused so much pain? He was far less impressive than she had expected. He looked old and… dissipated, his face drooping and his muscles turned to flab.

“That is, as you say, wonderful news.” S’ning managed to speak at least. “Greetings, brother.”

He approached with an outstretched hand and S’quent ignored it, turning to an older male who had been standing next to S’ning.

“Assemble the Council, S’rah. I have matters to discuss.”

S’ning opened his mouth as if to protest, but after one look at Leavent, he subsided.

“Yes, Your Highness,” S’rah said smoothly. “Would you care to accompany me?”

“I will see my mate to our quarters first.”

There was another murmur of excitement, and S’rah’s composure faltered for a second.

“Your mate, Your Highness?”

“Yes. This is the Lady Marcy.”

S’rah recovered enough to execute a polite bow, and she nodded, praying she didn’t look as uncomfortable as she felt.

“I could have a servant accompany her, if you wish to proceed to the Council Chamber.”

“No. I wish to see her safely to our quarters first and make sure that she is comfortable.” There was just the slightest emphasis on the word safely, and she saw S’ning flinch.

“But please arrange to have Lord Leavent and Lady Sophie taken to the best guest chamber. They are here as representatives of the Imperial Court.”

That message was even clearer. S’ning cast an almost desperate look around, but two Fleet officers had moved into position behind him. S’quent ignored him, tucking her hand in his arm and moving forward with his usual assurance. The crowd parted to let them pass, but she could feel their eyes following them.

Neither one of them spoke as he led her down several long polished stone corridors. The walls were hung with art, and graceful flower arrangements occupied niches along the way, but she was too nervous to pay much attention. She didn’t relax until he threw open a pair of double doors and led her into a massive living room. Windows lined the far wall, opening onto a terrace, and she could see mountains in the distance.

“That went better than I expected,” he said thoughtfully.

“It did?”

“S’ning has been ruling for a long time, and he has many supporters. There was always the possibility that he would simply denounce me as an imposter and have me arrested again. But I think Leavent’s presence made the difference. Now I need to have him removed from his position as Regent.”

Her knees suddenly felt weak, and she collapsed on the nearest chair.

“It’s not going to help that you have a human mate, is it?”

He went to his knees in front of her, taking her cold fingers in his big warm hands.

“Perhaps not, but the legal precedent is quite clear and I don’t care about their opinions. I don’t care about the throne either. I would happily abdicate today, but first I must make sure that the throne is in good hands and that the Maki’pinga are safe. It will take time, little blossom, and I worry that you will not be happy here.”

She took a deep breath, then leaned forward and kissed him.

“As long as you’re here, I will be happy.” She guided his hand to her stomach. “And our child will be here as well.”

He pressed a soft kiss to her stomach, then rose, assuming his regal air once more.

“This may take a while, but I will return as soon as I can.”

“I’ll be waiting for you,” she promised.

S’QUENT RETURNED to their quarters a long time later to find Marcy waiting for him, just as she’d promised. The lights in the room had been dimmed, and she was standing by the long windows leading out onto the terrace.

“Is it done?”

“Yes.”

He rubbed tired eyes. It had been a long, draining session responding to all of the Council’s questions and concerns. S’ning had started off smooth and controlled, assuring them that it was all a misunderstanding. He had many friends on the Council, and for a while S’quent had thought that his brother might actually convince them to believe his lies.

But as more of the story emerged and the Council asked more pressing questions, S’ning’s composure began to disappear. The angrier he became, and the wilder his counter accusations, the more even his most ardent supporters began to desert him. Some of them had simply slipped away, but enough remained for a sentence.

“My brother has been exiled.” Not that S’ning had accepted the verdict—he’d been dragged from the Council Chamber still shouting threats—but he was already being deported.

“He should have been imprisoned,” she said tartly.

“Perhaps. But he is leaving without anything, and that seems like punishment enough.”

“You’re more forgiving than I am.”

“I would not have been,” he admitted. “You have softened me, blossom.”

Her pale fingers reached out and traced his shaft. “Not noticeably.”

He laughed and pulled her closer, but she had more questions.

“What about the Maki’pinga?”

“They will be freed and returned home.”

He didn’t want to think about how difficult it had been to convince the Council. They were a conservative group, already inclined to think anyone other than a Yarasan inferior, let alone a race who couldn’t communicate with them.

“That’s wonderful.”

“I have arranged for transport. I wish we could go with them, but there is too much to be done here. But I thought perhaps we could go and visit in a few months. That is, if you don’t mind returning to Folsom?”

“Why would I mind? It’s a beautiful planet—and that’s where we met.” She smiled up at him, her opalescent eyes reflecting the moonlight. “Now come with me. I have a surprise.”

She led him out onto the terrace, and he immediately noticed the bank of white flowers surrounding a cushioned bench.

“Night-blooming alyasa,” he said softly.

“This is why you called me blossom, isn’t it?” She walked over and stroked one of the silky petals, her fingers just as white.

“Yes, although I find your scent far sweeter.”

She reached up and unfastened the silken gown, letting it drop to her feet. Her body glowed more luminously than the flowers, and his cock responded. He shoved off the official robes impatiently as he went to join her.

Before he could reach her, she turned away from him, giving him a provocative look over her shoulder as she arranged herself across the bench.

“I thought we could try this position. I’ve read that it’s very pleasurable.”

He looked down at the slender lines of her back, his cock so hard it ached. The position was not forbidden, exactly, but it was rarely used by Yarasans because of their wings. She looked fragile and vulnerable and infinitely desirable. He bent down and pressed a kiss between those bare, wingless shoulders. Her skin quivered beneath his mouth, as responsive as always.

He reached beneath her, tracing her mating mark, and she gasped, the heady scent of her arousal far more enticing than the surrounding flowers.

“Are you ready for me, little blossom?”

“Yes.”

She wiggled her ass impatiently, and he discovered another advantage to this position. His cock was perfectly aligned with her entrance, and he pressed easily through that slight, initial resistance until her body opened to receive him. He refused to hurry, letting his papillae heighten her desire as he pushed deeper. She tried to wiggle again, to urge him to move faster, but that too was easy to control in this position.

“Patience, blossom.”

“I don’t want to be patient. I need you.”

“I need you too, my mate, my love. But I want our first time here to be perfect.”

“It’s always perfect,” she said breathlessly as he stroked across her most sensitive place and his hips snapped forward faster than he’d intended.

He forced himself back under control, rocking her slowly into first one climax, then another, before he finally allowed his pace to increase, thrusting harder into her welcoming body. Harder and harder until he exploded with a deep cry, his voice echoing out across the valley and letting everyone know that the king had returned.

Perfect.

EPILOGUE

F ive years later…

“ARE YOU SURE ABOUT THIS?” Marcy asked S’quent again.

“Very sure, little blossom.” He arched an eyebrow at her. “Are you going to try and convince me that you enjoy life on Yaras?”

“I enjoy some of it,” she said truthfully.

The times when they were alone together, whether it was working or making love or just being together. She also enjoyed the spectacular beauty of the planet and her freedom to come and go without precautions. But Palace life was… difficult. No one was foolish enough to be explicitly rude to her, and at least amongst the scientific community she had won a begrudging respect, but she knew that most of the courtiers regarded her with contempt.

S’ning had died not long after he was exiled, caught trying to cheat a far more ruthless male. Neither one of them regretted his demise, but she also knew that a certain number of the Council still blamed them for his death.

“And you will still be able to enjoy those things. We’re not going into exile and leaving Yaras behind forever, but we can step back from court duties, travel more often.”

“I would like to see Kayora,” she admitted. They were working with the older female on reproducing some of her herbal remedies but they’d only had time for a few brief visits back to Folsom. “And spend more time with Sophie and the others.”

She suspected that he wanted that too. Leavent and his brothers had become almost an extended family to him.

“Then stop worrying about it,” he said firmly. “You knew this was the plan all along.”

She shrugged. “Yes, but you might have changed your mind.”

She knew he didn’t enjoy the pomp and circumstance either, but he did feel strongly about his responsibilities towards his people.

“I have not. Which is why I have spent the last five years making sure that S’caire is ready to take over.”

She nodded, but couldn’t prevent herself from pacing over to the window. She didn’t make it. He swooped on her, gathering her up in his arms and flying over to the bed with her. He tucked her beneath him and expanded his wings so the two of them were enclosed in an intimate cocoon.

“Talk to me, little blossom,” he ordered.

“Is it because of Jaden?” she blurted out. “Because you know the Selection Stone would reject him?”

“What makes you think that?”

“You said it would reject anyone who was unworthy. He’s half-human, and I’m sure that humans are considered unworthy.”

“Humans in general, perhaps. But the beautiful, brilliant mother of my son? Never.” His face was serious, but she recognized the smile lurking in his eyes.

“You already had him tested, didn’t you?”

“I did. Right after he was born. I wanted to make sure I was aware of all the options.”

“You never told me.”

He shrugged a massive shoulder, his wings fluttering. “I decided it didn’t make any difference. It was simply an option that I already suspected would not be a good fit. I sent for S’caire the next day.”

“Even though you knew that you could pass on the throne to Jaden?”

“Yes. But the option will remain open until the ceremony. We could postpone it, if you think it would be best for him.”

Their shy, studious son? Although he had inherited S’quent’s build and speed, his personality was a mirror of her own. And yet…

“Perhaps we should ask him?”

“He’s only five.”

“I am well aware of that. In case you’ve forgotten, I was there when he was born,” she said tartly.

His chuckle reverberated through her body, and her nipples sprang to attention. His eyes began to glow, but she lifted her hand to his chest when he started to lower his head.

“I want to finish talking about this first.”

“How disappointing that I’m relegated to second place.” He didn’t kiss her, but he let the warmth of his breath tease her sensitive ears and she shivered.

“I do think we should ask him.”

“Very well, little blossom. Is there anything else you wish to discuss first?” He scraped his fangs along the curve of her neck.

“Not unless you wish to hear about the results of the experiments with the Olias seed.” The words came out breathlessly, and he laughed again as he reached between them and circled the ring of mating marks that now surrounded each nipple. Her clit gave an excited pulse as arousal washed over her.

“Let’s make that third on the list,” he whispered.

She didn’t argue.

TWO WEEKS LATER, they were on their way to Votar.

They had talked to Jaden as she suggested. He studied both of them from his silver eyes, so much like his father’s.

“I don’t want to be king,” he said quietly. “Unless… do you want me to be?”

“No, son,” S’quent said immediately. “But it is an important position. We wanted you to have the choice.”

“I don’t want it.” Jaden looked over at her, and she smiled at him, relief flooding her.

“I will make the arrangements,” S’quent said.

The ceremony had been surprisingly simple. S’quent and S’caire stood in front of the Selection Stone, pricked their fingers, and placed their hands on the Stone. S’quent renounced his claim, and then a light flared around S’caire’s hand as he was accepted.

Her lingering doubts had disappeared at the obvious relief on her mate’s face when he turned to her. Jaden seemed just as relieved, and thrilled about their trip. They had intended to take one of S’quent’s ships, but Altrez and Lori were in the vicinity so they decided to travel with them instead.

S’quent liked to act as if Altrez annoyed him, but she knew he harbored a deep affection for the light-hearted male. And Pippi, their bouncy, energetic daughter, simply ignored Jaden’s reserve, dragging him into whatever mischief she could think up.

Marcy was talking to Lori in the lounge when S’quent entered. The sight of his tall, winged figure still made her heart skip a beat.

“We’ll arrive after dark, and Leavent will make sure that the lights are dimmed.”

She gave him a grateful smile. No one ever seemed bothered by her limitations, adjusting to them without complaint. She would have to remain within the house during the day, but it would be worth it to visit with their friends—their family—and to see her husband and son relaxed and happy.

“Pippi and Jaden wore each other out. They’re curled up asleep in your bed,” he told Lori.

Lori laughed and rolled her eyes. “You’re so diplomatic, S’quent. You mean my daughter wore your son out making him chase her through the ship.”

“I’m sure he enjoyed every minute.” He looked over at Marcy and his eyes gleamed silver. “A male always enjoys a good chase.”

“Which gives me an idea.” Lori jumped up and gave them a mischievous look. “Don’t come near the cockpit for a while.”

Lori disappeared through the doorway, and S’quent took her place on the couch, lifting Marcy into his arms. She smiled up at him.

“You didn’t exactly have to chase me, you know. If I remember correctly, I was always the one urging you to move faster.”

“Ah. That is because I am a very clever hunter. I make my prey want to leap into my trap.”

“I certainly did.” She nestled closer with a contented sigh. “We did the right thing, didn’t we?”

“Yes,” he said firmly, then hesitated. “But I’ve been thinking…”

“About what?”

“I think Jaden needs a brother. A true brother, like Leavent and Altrez and Riker.”

Her heart welled with love, but she gave him a teasing smile. “Are you sure? It might be a sister instead.”

“That would also be acceptable,” he said solemnly.

She laughed and kissed him, letting his talented tongue heighten her arousal. Her mating marks throbbed, her body already preparing for him.

“I think it’s an excellent idea. And I think we should get started immediately.”

As he lifted her into his arms and carried her out of the room, she smiled, grateful that she’d once had the courage to leave her protected house and follow the path of the moon. She hoped that the moon would be shining when they arrived on Votar, and that this time, they could follow its path together.

AUTHOR’S NOTE

Thank you so much for reading Alien Most Wanted: Unchained! I know S’quent has intrigued many of you from the beginning and I hope you enjoy reading his story as much as I enjoyed writing it! It’s always a little sad when I bring a series to a conclusion, but who knows? You may see some of these characters pop up again in the future!

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!

As usual, I have to thank my readers for coming on these adventures with me - 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!

Now that we’ve left Folsom, what’s next? I’m excited to announce that I’m returning to two of my favorite worlds!

First up - A Gift for the Alien Warrior!

When Taranov stumbles upon an abandoned ship, a helpless infant, and a beautiful female who can’t even remember her name, his instincts demand that he protect them… but his heart wants so much more!

Click here to order A Gift for the Alien Warrior!

And next - Olivia and the Orc!

Baldric may look more like an orc than an alien, but the fierce warrior is the only one who can keep Olivia safe. He can’t speak a word of her language, but there are other ways to communicate…

Click here to order Olivia and the Orc!

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OTHER TITLES

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

The Alien Invasion Series

Alien Selection

Alien Conquest

Alien Prisoner

Alien Breeder

Alien Alliance

Alien Hope

Exposed to the Elements

The Naked Alien

The Bare Essentials

A Nude Attitude

The Buff Beast

The Strip Down

Folsom Planet Blues

Alien Most Wanted: Caged Beast

Alien Most Wanted: Prison Mate

Alien Most Wanted: Mastermind

Alien Most Wanted: Unchained

Horned Holidays

Krampus and the Crone

A Gift for Nicholas

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

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

Cosmic Fairy Tales

Jackie and the Giant

Blind Date with an Alien

Her Alien Farmhand

Anthologies

Claimed Among the Stars

Adamant Spirits

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

www.bookbub.com/authors/honey-phillips

www.instagram.com/HoneyPhillipsAuthor

www.honeyphillips.com

Table of Contents

Title Page

Contents

Copyright

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

Chapter 16

Epilogue

Author’s Note

Other Titles

About the Author