“Ten rotations,” I proclaimed, pushing my broad shoulders back.
Despite the magnetic presence of the female standing next to Calti Joele, I attempted to stay focused.
At that precise moment, my communicator chimed, signaling an update from a member of the bridge crew.
“Captain, we are scheduled to meet the Drakkari fleet at Javar Outpost. We are two rotations away from reaching our destination.” After responding to the crewman, I faced the Drakkari female to relay the message.
She acknowledged me with a quick nod. “Did the Zinids take anyone else from the station?”
“You’re the only one we’re aware of. It’s unclear whether you were a specific target or if the abduction was random. All Alaran ally space stations and outposts will receive additional patrol vessels to boost security as soon as we can supply them.”
Calti Joele’s lips curled into a wry grin. “This incident underscores the growing requirement for more Protectorate Forces.”
“I agree.” I clenched my hands into fists over the situation we faced.
The Krilex and Zinids were ramping up their incursions into our territory, and it would only worsen unless we stopped it.
It remained a mystery why the enemy persisted in infiltrating our section of heavily guarded space recently, when they’d avoided us for manytenris.Something else had to be going on here.
I couldn’t help it. My eyes darted to the captivating human before I quickly returned my attention to the Calti.
Joele’s lips formed a slight curve when she noticed my distraction.
“If it’s alright with you, I would appreciate some rest and good food?”
“Certainly.” I nodded and turned to Commander Krin, asking him to escort the Drakkari diplomat to her quarters.
She bowed her head in a Drakkari salute. “Thank you, Captain.”
With a half nod, I moved backward, giving them space to leave.
I turned my attention back to the fiery-haired female, who had been observing me with wide eyes.
Our eyes met in a lingering gaze and locked. Her captivating green eyes reminded me of rare Tulian gemstones. Her lips, so captivating, hinted at a smile that made me yearn to feel their softness against mine.
I caught the other three females looking at me from the corner of my eye. One of them coughed, then asked when they would be brought back home. I brushed off her question because I wasn’t prepared to discuss our next steps.
Once again, I found myself wondering how they ended up in Alaran space.
Standing there, the heat of my mating marks intensified, and I begrudgingly tore myself away to fulfill my responsibilities as Captain.
My personal feelings about the situation would have to be dealt with at a later time.
Taking charge, I assigned one of my warriors to escort the females to the Medi-bay, where they would be fitted with translator implants and have any injuries examined.
The young warrior acknowledged with a quick nod.
I looked away from the enchanting human, touching my mating marks as I walked away.
The loud thumping of my heart in my chest made me believe everyone was aware of it.
5
Grace
THE CAPTAIN LOOKEDme over while I stood next to Joele, running my hands along my arms. A cool shiver went down my spine, and not just because of my exposed limbs.
Oh no, my hair! I must look awful!
