us embracing as our bodies calm from the frenzy of lovemaking. I decide that this is my safe place. The place I will return to over and over again in my life to fill my cup with love and acceptance. I mean to do the same for my queen.
Choosing A Mate
Juliet
Running my fingers over the drawer where I keep my tiny stash of personal items, I open it up and grab a palm-sized case. Though I own things of value, this is my most prized possession because it has sentimental value. Sliding it into the front of my fancy uniform dress, I head out to meet Borak. Taking a look at my dark teal outfit, I like the way it looks against my skin. I’ve started wearing a little more make-up, and it’s helped me feel more like a woman instead of a soldier.
This evening, I’ve been invited to dine with his family in their clade quarters. To be honest, I’ve been avoiding visiting him there. The thing is, now that I’m sure we’re right for each other, I’ll go toe to toe with anyone who objects. My Borak is definitely worth fighting for. We’re more than well suited for each other; we’re damn near perfect. I’m not about to let anyone get between us at this point.
We’re a week out from landing on Onello, and we’ve both got some serious decisions to make. Though I might have started out a bit reluctant, things got heated fast between us and I’m anything but hesitant now. Our relationship feels more right than anything in my life ever did. It’s not just the amazing sex and how he’s so focused on my pleasure. It’s that he’s kind and considerate and understands me like no other man ever did. I’ve already decided that tonight I’m grabbing my happiness with both hands and not letting it go.
Standing in front of his door, I wave my hand over the scanner and the door slides right open. My sweet soon to be mate already gave me access to his clade quarters. It’s so like him to do that without even mentioning it.
My Chantel comes to greet me at the door. Taking me by the hand, she leads me into their common room. We sit on one of the numerous settees. “Borak will be along shortly. He’s changed his clothing three times. I guess he’s anxious about making a good impression tonight.”
I lean over and whisper conspiratorially, “He should be nervous as hell; he’s getting chosen tonight.”
She squeals with excitement, her hands going to her face. “Are you serious? He’s going to be on cloud nine. You are seriously the only thing that man talks about.”
Hearing that makes me smile. “We’ve only got a week left before we land on Onello. Once that happens everything’s probably going to get complicated again. If I want his undivided attention, I’d better jump on it now, right?”
My daughter’s expression morphs into one of confusion. “I think you underestimate how important women are in their world. No matter when you mate him, his entire world would stop for a bit to spend one-on-one time with you. That’s happened with Korak. The other warriors just close ranks and picked up the slack to give the newly mated warrior time with his queen.”
That sets my mind at ease, but once I’ve truly thought something out and made up my mind, I don’t usually change it. “I’m giving him our heirloom pocket watch.”
That little announcement gets me a shoulder squeeze. “It’s been in our family for generations. That’s a really good idea.” She looks over my new clothing and smiles. “Borak is good for you, and you’re definitely putting a smile on his face lately.”
A familiar voice sounds off from across the room. “Greetings, my queen.” Chantel and I both come to our feet in time to see Borak strolling into the room.
He’s wearing what I’m guessing is a formal uniform. No, there are no Draconian markings. As much as he likes to fight, I can’t imagine him quitting the military. Instead of freaking out, I play it cool in front of his family. “Greetings, my gorgeous protector. You’re looking sharp tonight.”
His eyes light up. Mingled with the pleasure is a certain vulnerability that endears him to me even more. Soldiers hate for people to see their weaknesses, and he’s opening himself to me. That’s got to be hard for him. Whether he’s feeling that way because of the compliment or me referring to