Riley’s mouth twisted. “I’m not sure. Staying here could be risky.”
I don’t know how she could think that, but okay.
Avery strode over, looking even more resolute. “When we get to this Javar place, I’m going with Joele. She’s promised to make sure I get back to Earth.”
I let out a sigh.
Avery’s decision not to stay with the Protectorate warriors made it clear that there was no need for further discussion.
I forced a smile when I caught Joele’s curious stare.
The alien female’s lips tipped into a smile, though she didn’t utter a word.
16
Trex
WHILE WE RESUMED OURjourney to the Outpost, my blood began to cool and my mind wandered back to Grace.
I wish I could have gone to her when she called for me, but I had to be on the bridge during the attack.
It was possible that she was even more upset with me than before. I felt a bit lost and unsure of myself.
I became unsure of my next move because of her vexation toward me. Nervously tugging at my earlobe, I hoped the brief Krilex encounter didn’t scare her.
My chest rumbled. I wanted to go see her to ensure that she was okay. Yet, my responsibility as the Captain of the ship left me feeling conflicted.
‘Are you troubled by something?‘ Krin glanced my way as his thoughts entered my mind.
Troubled wasn’t thewordI would use.
My encounter with Grace was having a profound impact on me, and I was prepared to take on the Universe to keep her safe.
My smile grew as I looked at him.‘I think I have found my K’sha.’
Krin did a double-take and then spoke aloud. “Captain?”
Some of the crew cast a quick glance at us before redirecting their focus.
‘My mating marks have been triggered.’ I showed him, moving the leather straps that crossed the center of my chest. ‘When I am near her, I feel them searing my skin.’
Krin’s mouth fell open in astonishment as his gaze fixated on my chest. The faint etching in my skin was unmistakably visible, serving as evidence of my honesty.
He spoke inside my head.‘It’s one of the rescued females?’
My response was a simple nod.
I was mindful of my responsibilities to my fellow warriors on the ship and the entire Alaran sector. However, the meaning of my mating marks being activated couldn’t be ignored.
Grace was a creation of Tenage and Veshar, the talented weaver’s behind the grand tapestry. Our destinies were now intertwined, bound by a common purpose.
All that was needed was for me to claim her, sealing our eternal bond through the sacred mating ritual.
Having found her, I couldn’t imagine being with anyone else.
On Alara, males had etchings on their skin when they were born.
Various castes indicated distinct locations on the male’s body. They were designed to change color and become more visible when a male met his K’sha.
