Guardian of MySoul

BONDMATE I: GUARDIAN OF MY SOUL

Nessa’s heart hurt at the thought of her kesol with another woman. She was only his tathar. She had no right to be upset, but she’d considered him hers for so long she couldn’t bear to think of him with someone else. Firmly, she pushed it out of her mind. This wasn’t the time for jealousy. “We’ve got to get you out of here,” he muttered. “Tell me more of your kidnapping. Did you recognize the man?” She shook her head. “No…but he wasn’t a noble. He didn’t smell of perfume, but of dirt and sweat.” He nodded. “They waited until I was gone to take you. That means they had inside information. Only a few knew I was taking this time for myself.” Nessa bit her lip again. He hadn’t even told her he was leaving. He’d left her alone to go have sex with another woman. Suddenly, he stiffened. Grabbing her by the arms, he hauled her back against him. Before she could protest his actions, his lips slanted over hers. Gasping in surprise, she tried to pull away, but his hands moved up into her hair to hold her tightly against him. His mouth was hard, pressing against hers with passionate intent. Nessa moaned and her lips softened instinctively. In a matter of moments, she knew why the thought of Daeron with another woman bothered her so. She wanted him for herself…

BONDMATE I:

GUARDIAN OF MY SOUL BY CJ ENGLAND

AMBER Q UILL PRESS, LLC http://www.AmberQuill.com

BONDMATE I: GUARDIAN OF MY SOUL AN AMBER QUILL PRESS BOOK This book is a work of fiction. All names, characters, locations, and incidents are products of the author’s imagination, or have been used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead, locales, or events is entirely coincidental. Amber Quill Press, LLC http://www.AmberQuill.com All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be transmitted or reproduced in any form, or by any means, without permission in writing from the publisher, with the exception of brief excerpts used for the purposes of review. Copyright © 2007 by CJ England ISBN 978-1-60272-067-1 Cover Art © 2007 Trace Edward Zaber

Layout and Formatting provided by: Elemental Alchemy

PUBLISHED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

To all the wonderful science fiction authors that I have cut my teeth on: Anne McCaffrey, Piers Anthony, Frank E. Peretti, Roald Dahl, David Eddings, Terry Brooks and Stephen Lawhead. But more than any other, I want to thank Marilyn Campbell,who showed me that futuristic/science fiction romance could be written and written well. Thank you for your enthusiasm, your kindness, and your encouragement.

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CHAPTER 1 The soft sweet scent of the vyri flower filled the night air. It had rained last night and everything seemed fresh and new…except for him. He felt beaten and weary. Much too tired for a man of only twenty-six cycles. The soft moans of a woman could be heard, along with the deeper groans of her male partner. As Daeron Palantir walked closer to the Pleasure Tent, he shook his head. He couldn’t believe he was doing this. It was her fault. She’d driven him here. With her swaying hips and soft, pink mouth, she had finally pushed him over the edge. He glanced up at the twin moons, Pela and Lela. Named after the supreme goddesses of this world, they shone their 1

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sapphire light down on the planet below. He didn’t pay much attention to them anymore, although when he’d first arrived, they’d fascinated him. This world was very different from the ocean world of Maedalaer where he’d been raised. When, eight years earlier, he’d first journeyed to Caereli to take part in a work exchange program between the two societies, he’d been awed by the lush forests and verdant valleys. He’d explored them all, curious about the differences between his childhood home, which was seventy-five percent water, and this one, where water was abundant, yet mostly underground. Unlike his own wet world, no great seas dotted this planet’s landscape. His curious investigations were noticed. Young—yet oddly learned and reliable for a man his age—he’d been given the opportunity to join a very special elite force, a year after his arrival. Once that happened, everything else had been pushed out of his mind. Frowning, Daeron pushed open the tent flap. He wasn’t going to think about it…about her. He was taking tonight off. If he didn’t, he wasn’t sure what would happen. She was slowly driving him insane. “Welcome, sir. May your evening be enjoyable.” He glanced over at the greeter. She was tall and dark, with emerald green eyes and short white hair. Her naked body was draped in a pale green piece of silk that left nothing to the imagination. Damn…I must be more tired than I thought. “I would speak with your master,” he said aloud. The beauty bowed. “This way.” 2

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Daeron followed her through the large group of people that were gathered. Pleasure tents did a booming business in the smaller communities outside the capital where excitement was difficult to come by. He, himself, had ridden far to find this one. He hadn’t wanted anyone to know what he was doing. The last thing he wanted was to have it common knowledge the guardian of Princess Nessa needed to visit a prostitute. A burst of laughter brought him back from his morose thoughts. He saw a middle-aged, overweight man who looked remarkably like a picture of a pig he’d seen once as a child. The man’s small eyes peered up at him, while his fat hand rubbed the naked thigh of a pleasure slave who lay next to him. “I am Lamal Annarie,” he said jovially. “How can I help you?” Daeron swallowed heavily. Goddess… He hated the thought of doing this, but he had no choice. “I am in need of a woman.” Lamal grinned, showing teeth turned pink by overindulgence in mardesia wine. “You have come to the right place, my friend.” He gestured around the room. “I have all sorts of women here.” Gritting his teeth, Daeron tried to smile. “I have a certain type in mind. I would like to make my selection…privately.” The slave master nodded. “You wish a showing?” “Yes. Is there a room available?” Lamal looked at the younger man, his eyes knowing. He 3

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turned to the white-haired slave who’d escorted him. “Take him to the private tent in the back. When he is comfortable, arrange a line up of available slaves.” Daeron bowed. “Thank you.” “It will not be cheap, my friend,” the slave master warned. “It will depend on whether you want her for an hour…or the night.” Not being able to imagine spending the whole night with one of the man’s prostitutes, he shuddered. “I will…make that decision once I see my choices.” “Good, good.” Lamal smiled benignly. “You will see I have only the best selection of females for you to choose from. You will not be sorry.” Daeron sighed as he turned and followed the swinging hips of the slave. Even though this was the only way he could think of to keep his sanity, he was very much afraid he was already sorry. Thirty minutes later, he was bathed and clothed in a clean robe. Next to him was a plate of fruit and sweets and he held a chalice of brewsweet in his hand. Sipping at it, Daeron sighed. He needed this. He pushed back the feeling of guilt. He was a grown man with needs and he’d gone a long time without satisfying those desires. The fact he lusted after someone totally unsuitable only exacerbated those feelings. But…if he didn’t get them taken care of, he might do something really stupid, like go after the person whom he was sworn to protect. Princess Nessa. 4

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Closing his eyes, he leaned back in his chair. He’d been in her service for six years, most of which he’d spent wanting to spank or kiss her. After his acceptance into the elite Caerelian Guardian Service, he’d undergone a full year of extremely intensive training. He’d been taught everything from fighting skills to diplomacy and had learned to trust his instincts. As one of the best of the best, he’d been given the supreme honor of bonding with the guardian’s sacred animal…a land dragon. Always male, with fiery breath, almost impenetrable skin and long spiked tails, most were huge, reaching sizes of twenty-five hands high and eighty hands long. Because of this, they were used as mounts and protectors. But even more important was their ability to create a mind bond with one specific partner. Candidates were selected by their skills as guardians and then brought before the land dragons to be chosen. When Daeron first stared into the rainbow eyes of the dragon, Opakuv, he’d known instantly they were meant to be together. When their minds melded and they spoke for the first time, it had been a most awesome experience. A lifelong bonding, they’d been partners ever since and were considered as family to those who served with them. Not long after his mind bonding with Opakuv, he’d been assigned as kesol, or protector, to the princess. He was told she wanted a younger guardian and it wasn’t long into the assignment that he realized why. The princess…was a brat. 5

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Lively and curious were the nicer ways Nessa was described. Stubborn and opinionated were some others. She approached life head on, never worrying about the ramifications. He couldn’t count the number of times he pulled her out of scrapes, or how many times she’d tried to make him quit. But, at the same time, she was sweet, kind and always laughing, so no one could really stay angry with her for long. As she reached the tender age of sixteen, she showed the promise of great beauty. When she turned eighteen, Nessa was betrothed to the prince of a neighboring world. After her betrothal, things were different. Nessa was watched even closer and her practice sessions increased. No outsider knew exactly why, but, from what little was shared, when a man mated with a certain type of Caerelian woman, it was very special bonding. So special in fact, high-born females were kept protected their whole lives until the mating took place. Which is why Daeron had a job. And why that job was slowly destroying him. At night, he stood guard over her as she slept, wondering about the lessons given to prepare her for her first night as a wife. Slowly, Nessa became sexier, more demonstrative, and every time she touched him in passing, his body hardened in a glorious rush of lust. But nothing could come of it. She was a princess and he, a guardian. More importantly, she belonged to someone else. The only thing being around her could ever do was give him an itch he couldn’t scratch. 6

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Which is what brought him here…to this Pleasure Tent. He was in a state of constant arousal when he was near her and it was slowly driving him insane. He hoped a night with another woman would take the edge off and he could continue to protect Nessa without the sexual tension he constantly battled. The curtain at the end of the tent moved and the whitehaired slave appeared. She bowed, her dark breasts spilling out of her silken wrap. “We are ready, sir. We await your orders.” Daeron sighed and sat up in his chair. Hopefully, one of these women would be able to help him. “Show me.” The slave bowed again and turning, drew back the colorful curtain. The fluttering drapes revealed the semi-naked bodies of six beautifully shaped females, their heads covered in the tradition of a Caerelian whore. He took a deep breath as he looked at them. Each was beautiful in a different way, but none were what he was looking for. Waving his hand, he asked for the next set to be brought in. The parade of women went on for several minutes before Daeron suddenly stiffened. His entire body heated and his heart started to pound. His cock stood to attention as he stared at the last woman in the group. She was tall and slender, with nicely shaped hips, and breasts that just cried out for a man’s hands. Saliva pooled in his mouth, and he knew he’d found the one he was looking for. He frowned when she was pushed from behind, forcing her to move forward. When she stumbled and went to her knees, 7

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he came to his feet when he saw the tiny tattoo of a carna bird on her shoulder. His eyes flared and his body tightened even further. Turning to the slave girl, his jaw ticked as he fought to control himself. “The one on the end. I want her.” The slave smiled when she saw his eagerness. “Ahhh, the new girl. You have excellent taste.” Daeron wasn’t in the mood for niceties. “Get her in here, right now!” Bowing, the slave left the room, then quickly returned, dragging the hooded woman behind her. Now he could see her hands were bound behind her, the ropes barely seen under the thin draping of fabric covering her naked body. “Leave us,” he growled. The white-haired woman backed out, closing the door behind her. Immediately, Daeron whipped the hood off the woman’s head and cursed out loud. Looking back at him was the very beautiful, very angry, very shocked face of his tathar…his assignment. The one he was to protect with his very life. The Princess Nessa.

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CHAPTER 2 “Daeron?” Nessa whispered. She barely felt it when he untied her bound hands. Once she was free, she threw herself in his arms. She shuddered when his arms came up and held her tightly. For the first time that day, she felt safe again. Burying her face in his muscular chest, she inhaled his familiar scent. He was the one person in her life she trusted. The one man she could count on. It seemed right that he was the one to rescue her from this horrible place. He’d been by her side for most of her adult life. Since her sixteenth birthday and she was declared a woman, Daeron had been there to make sure she was safe. Standing several inches over six feet, he was strong and 9

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muscular…a man in his prime. He had dark brown hair he usually wore long and tied back, though it was loose and free now. His face wasn’t handsome, but rugged and masculine, with a firm jaw and sensuous lips. Even the scar that graced his left cheek added to his maleness. His almond-shaped eyes were the color of a new leaf and they changed color with his moods. Even though he was still a young man and one of the youngest guardians ever, he had a presence that warned people off. When he gave an order, everyone jumped. Everyone…except her. She wasn’t afraid of him. What she really felt for him, she refused to acknowledge, even to herself. “Nessa!” he growled in a voice that showed he was barely controlling his temper. “What are you doing here? Is this another one of your…adventures?” She blinked and pulled back from him. Her golden gaze met his green one. “Adventure? Are you insane? You think I wanted to come here?” Her eyes narrowed. “I don’t understand. If you’re not here to rescue me, then what are you…” Her voice trailed off and her mouth dropped open. “Ohhh…” *

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Incredibly, Daeron felt himself turning red. He couldn’t believe this was happening. He fought his emotions, staring down at her exotic beauty. She had the pale golden skin of the Caerelian noble class, with waist-length hair the blue of a clear summer sky. Her 10

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eyes were the color of newly minted gold, framed with long dark lashes. Her small turned up nose gave her a mischievous expression, one softened by her full womanly lips. He swore to himself as his body reacted again. While he’d chanced across her bathing a few times, he’d been careful not to look at her directly. Now that he’d seen her full beauty, he was very much afraid he’d never be able to forget it. Tearing his eyes away from the transparent robe she wore, he forced his mind to concentrate. “Never mind what I’m doing here. What happened?” Her lips trembled and her eyes filled with tears. “I was sleeping. Next thing I knew, someone was standing over me.” She looked up at him. “I thought it was you.” She huddled close to him again and instinctively his arms tightened. “I started to scream, but he put a cloth over my face. It smelled horrible. Then my head started spinning and I felt sick. Next thing I knew, I was lying on a dirty cot in a room filled with other women.” Daeron gave a growl. Kidnapped. How could this have happened? She sniffed. “They made me take a bath, dressed me in this flimsy cloth and brought me in here. I thought…I was going to be raped.” The thought of her in another man’s arms inflamed his anger even higher. “The goddesses be praised it was I and not some other awaiting you. I recognized your tattoo.” She stared up at him. “This is the Pleasure Tent, isn’t it?” At his nod, she bit her lower lip. “And you are here…to 11

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receive pleasure from one of these women?” He narrowed his eyes and pulled away from her. He hated that she made him feel like he was betraying her. “I’m a man, princess. Let it go at that.” *

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Nessa’s heart hurt at the thought of her kesol with another woman. She was only his tathar. She had no right to be upset, but she’d considered him hers for so long she couldn’t bear to think of him with someone else. Firmly, she pushed it out of her mind. This wasn’t the time for jealousy. “We’ve got to get you out of here,” he muttered. “Tell me more of your kidnapping. Did you recognize the man?” She shook her head. “No…but he wasn’t a noble. He didn’t smell of perfume, but of dirt and sweat.” He nodded. “They waited until I was gone to take you. That means they had inside information. Only a few knew I was taking this time for myself.” Nessa bit her lip again. He hadn’t even told her he was leaving. He’d left her alone to go have sex with another woman. Suddenly, he stiffened. Grabbing her by the arms, he hauled her back against him. Before she could protest his actions, his lips slanted over hers. Gasping in surprise, she tried to pull away, but his hands moved up into her hair to hold her tightly against him. His mouth was hard, pressing against hers with passionate intent. Nessa moaned and her lips softened instinctively. In a matter 12

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of moments, she knew why the thought of Daeron with another woman bothered her so. She wanted him for herself. Forgetting completely where they were, she arched herself into him, winding her own hands into his unbound hair. She gave him her mouth, surprised when he didn’t take her up on the offer. Instead, he tore his away and bent to whisper in her ear, “Fight me, damn it!” She froze at his words, her confusion complete, but then she heard the sound of a man clearing his throat behind them. All the lovely warmth he’d created in her cooled immediately and she struggled in his arms. “Let go of me!” The cough turned to laughter. “Do you need help there, traveler?” *

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Daeron gritted his teeth. The feel of the princess in his arms was even better than he’d dreamed it would be. His cock throbbed like a sore tooth at just the touch of her sweet lips against his. He ached to pull her down to the bed and bury himself deep within her, even though the only reason he kissed her was to fool the slave master who appeared, unannounced, in the doorway. Pushing the princess behind him, he turned to the unwelcome visitor. “Is there a problem?” he asked icily. “I thought this room was private.” Lamal quailed under his furious eyes. “S-s-so sorry,” he 13

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stuttered. “But this slave shouldn’t have been included in the line-up. She is promised to someone else.” Daeron felt Nessa stiffen behind him. “I have made my selection,” he growled. “The female stays.” “But, sir, any other slave can be yours. In fact,”—the man shifted back and forth on his pudgy feet—“I’ll give you two for the price of one.” “No.” The slave master began to sweat. Then, his tiny eyes dropped to the sight of Daeron’s fearsome erection tenting his pants. “Good sir, perhaps we can help each other.” Daeron noted the cunning in the man’s eyes. “How is that?” Lamal gestured to the slender girl standing behind him. “She is a special case. I have been asked to take care of her personally.” At Daeron’s growl, he went on hurriedly, “But I would be most happy to allow you the honor.” “And just what honor would that be?” The slave master rubbed his hands together. “Why…the taking of her virginity, of course.”

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CHAPTER 3 Daeron hoped the shock didn’t show on his face. The princess had been taken for the sole purpose of dishonoring her? This was no ordinary kidnapping. “Explain yourself,” he ordered. “What is so important about this wench?” The portly man ignored Nessa’s gasp of indignation. “I don’t know everything. Just that she was to be used as a bargaining chip between two factions. Stealing her honor will make her useless to the man who owns her, so whatever deal she was a part of will fall through.” He laughed nervously. “That’s all I know. I try not to get too involved in the lives of nobles.” Who would do this? The alliance that would be formed 15

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when Nessa mated with her betrothed would be a strong one. Two planets, two races, would unite for the first time. Many of the nearby worlds hadn’t been happy with the idea. But would one of them go so far as to destroy her to prevent it? The true reason for a guardian’s protection was shrouded in secrecy, but he’d long been of the opinion it was the princess’s honor he protected. Though the nobles never came right out and said it, it was apparent, by their treatment of their daughters, they thought their purity a very important asset. They often spoke of it. To have it stolen away would be a tremendous insult. He glared at the slave master. “Who is the noble?” Lamal swallowed hard. “I don’t know. I received the woman and a missive stating she was to be ravished if I wanted my payment. I’m to send proof back with the messenger.” Caught between following the messenger to find out who was behind this and protecting Nessa, he chose the only one he could. “The woman stays with me.” The slave master relaxed, thinking he’d made a deal. “I won’t charge you the full amount, since she is inexperienced. I know you came here in great need.” He gave a little chuckle as he looked Nessa up and down lasciviously. “I envy you, friend. I would give much to be the one rutting between her thighs.” Daeron barely prevented himself from knocking Lamal through the door. To have the man speak about the princess that way made him furious. He swore, when he got Nessa back 16

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to safety, he would come after the slave master and make him pay for everything. “After you fuck her,” the little man went on, not knowing how close he was to death, “I will need to see proof of it.” “What proof?” “Why, her blood, of course. And your seed.” Lamal grinned nastily. “That way we know the deed is done.” Abruptly, Daeron lost his patience. “Get out!” Lamal began backing away. “I’ll be outside if you need me.” “I said, get out!” Daeron roared. After the door slammed behind the slave master, he turned back to the princess, his face grim. “We’ll find a way to get out of here, princess. This, I promise.” She looked up at him trustingly. “You have always protected me, Daeron.” She sighed and looked around the room. “Although I do believe this is one scrape you may not be able to save me from. There are too many of them for you to fight.” He allowed himself a brief touch on her naked shoulder. “I will not let him dishonor you.” He stepped closer. “He may be watching,” he whispered. “We must be careful.” She shuddered. “I don’t want him to touch me.” “He won’t.” She looked around the small room. “What will we do?” He could think of only one way to get them out of this mess. “You will have to trust me.” Her golden eyes lifted to his. “Of course.” 17

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Clenching his jaw, he led her over to the bed. Pulling back the soft sheets, he motioned to her. “Get in.” She swallowed visibly and then obeyed, staring up at him with wide eyes. Hoping she’d miss the fact her barely-covered body was making him hard as stone, he slid in next to her, covering them with the thin linen. The feel of her body against his made him groan inwardly. “We’ll have to fool him into believing we have followed his instructions.” *

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Nessa could barely breathe, her heart pounding at his closeness. He was big and hard and hot. She wanted to touch him, to see if he felt as good as he looked. She’d become more and more aware of him in the last year, feeling things she knew she shouldn’t feel for her kesol. She knew he’d never touch her. Even though she knew she saw something in his eyes when he looked at her. He was her protector. If she wanted to know more of the emotions she’d discovered when he kissed her, she’d have to make the first move. Daeron reached over and surreptitiously pulled a large knife out of his folded pile of clothes. “We will need blood.” “You’re going to cut me?” “No.” He shook his head. “I can’t hurt you. I will use my own.” She flushed. “And the other?” His cheeks reddened. “I am sorry, princess. We have no choice.” He glanced back at the draperies at the end of the 18

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room. “We must make them believe I have taken my pleasure of you. There is only one way to do that.” “How?” He swallowed. “I will…use my hand. Then I will cut myself and mix the blood and seed on the sheet. That should buy us time to figure out a way out of here.” The thought of what he was going to do made Nessa’s body warm in anticipation. She wished it could be for real. She’d always wanted him to be the first to make love to her, especially after she’d been betrothed to a man she’d seen only once. After four long years, her training was over. Soon she’d leave to be with her new mate, the first of her kind to be mated to an off-worlder. The thought of never knowing Daeron’s touch was intolerable. “Are you ready?” His words jerked her thoughts out of the clouds. She stared up at him, seeing his eyes had already darkened. Suddenly, she knew what to do. It was time to put some of those lessons she’d been given to good use. She ran her hand down his chest. “I want to help.” His mouth fell open. “What?” He trapped the wandering hand before it got any closer to his throbbing cock. She smiled. “I know what to do, Daeron. I have been trained. Allow me to pleasure you.” *

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His whole body tightened so fast he was afraid he’d break in two. He wanted her touch so very much. He dreamt of her at night. To have her offer herself… He shook his head. 19

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“No,” he growled hoarsely. “It cannot be. Nessa moved closer to him. “I want to do this for you.” She slipped her hand from his grasp and trailed it down his side until she reached his straining shaft. She wrapped her hand around him through his robe, smiling as he groaned. “And I don’t think you are adverse to the idea.” Daeron tried to think. “It is wrong, princess.” He tried to push her hand away, but she held on tightly. “I am your kesol…your protector.” “And you must find your pleasure to save me.” She squeezed gently and was rewarded by another groan and a small thrust of his hips. “Let me help you.” Leaning forward, she kissed his naked throat. “I have wanted to touch you for a long time, my handsome guardian. Circumstances wouldn’t allow us the freedom to do so, but now…now we can. Please, let me give you this gift.” His body was on fire with the touch of her lips, her hand on his cock. It was impossible to think of anything other than how much he wanted her. And to find out she wanted him as well? He shuddered. “Princess…” “Please,” she whispered, kissing down his throat to his chest. “I want to do this, Daeron. Don’t make me beg.” “I will not dishonor you,” he rasped out. She framed his face in her hands. “Nothing you could do would bring shame on me. I know you don’t understand, but I swear to you, there will be no disgrace.” Daeron surrendered. Beaten by her words, by the look in her eyes, by her very touch. He’d tried, but he couldn’t fight 20

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how he felt about her anymore. He couldn’t have her forever, but right now, at this moment, she would be his. Groaning, he lay back on the bed. He felt her hands pull apart the robe he was wearing. One of her hands slid over his body and stroked over his hard masculine nipples, while the other one smoothed down his side and encircled his already throbbing cock. Clenching his hands into the sheets, he groaned again. “Princess,” he muttered, trying one last time, “we shouldn’t.” Her soft laugh stirred him even more. “I think you should call me Nessa after this. And we should do this.” She sighed. “In fact, I think we should have a long time ago.” He closed his eyes. Her touch made thought impossible. Pulling the bedclothes higher over them, he allowed himself to enjoy. Her hand smoothed over his erect cock. It felt cool and wonderful against his heated skin. She teased him, sliding her fingers along the underside of his shaft, tickling the throbbing vein she discovered there. She traced her way back up to its dark head, using her finger to spread the pre-cum she found all over the sensitive flesh. A fire began to burn low in his loins. He couldn’t help but thrust against her, needing more. Her lips replaced the hand on his chest and he groaned when her tongue tickled his nipple. At the same time, her hand moved down and cupped his turgid balls. Daeron’s eyes flew open. His whole body was already so 21

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sensitized, he could barely stand it. He knew once she really started touching him, it would all be over very soon. She had been trained well. Without conscious thought, he took over, rolling her beneath him. His mind blanked of everything except the enjoyment of her touch, he made an irrevocable decision. If they had to do this, he wouldn’t be the only one who found pleasure in the deed. Nessa’s eyes widened, but then she moaned when his mouth found hers again. This time it was even better because he wanted to kiss her. He nipped at her lips, then tickled them with his tongue, before smoothly parting them to explore inside. He tasted every inch of her mouth. Every recess, every hidden corner, every nerve ending. He taught her how he liked to kiss, their tongues dueling in time with each other. Then he moved back to her lips and started all over again. Daeron’s muscles ached from the strain of holding onto his control. He wouldn’t allow himself to take her, no matter how badly he wanted to. Instead, he ran his hand down her side, pushing away the insubstantial silk. His fingers stroked the soft mound of curls that protected her and, when she gasped, he kissed her again, readying her for his touch. He eased his fingers between her damp folds and caressed her aching clit. She moved against him, her eyes wide with surprise. Then they fluttered shut as she moaned out his name. The sound made his cock throb in sudden, desperate need, and he was abruptly sure he wouldn’t last much longer. 22

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Slanting his mouth over hers, he continued to flick and rub her swollen clit until she was moving against him in mindless need. *

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All Nessa could do was ride the wave of feeling. She hadn’t expected his response. She’d been prepared to gift him with his pleasure, but now it seemed he had other ideas. Her body warmed and softened, preparing for whatever he would do next. She nearly cried out when he took her breast into his hand. His thumb flicked back and forth over the nipple, making the aching bud lengthen and firm. She moaned into his mouth as heat curled in her belly. She wanted to weep. By the goddesses…it felt so good. What she’d been taught to do to herself didn’t come close to the sensations Daeron was creating in her body. His wicked fingers plucked at her, making the heat coil tighter and tighter in her belly. Her breasts ached and her nipples throbbed. Reaching downward, she encircled his hard cock in her hand, glorying in the way his body surged closer. She began to pump him up and down, loving his strength as he pulsed against her. “Nessa…” he murmured in his own language, “Eas Oevw…eas ayattn.” She wondered briefly what he’d said to her, but her own passion soon pushed away the flicker of curiosity. He thrust against her hands, the heat of his body burning into hers. His 23

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fingers moved now to the warm, wet entrance of her body. His callused thumb circled her opening. Then, without hesitation, he plunged it inside of her. She screamed as all the feelings that had been building inside of her coalesced into a white hot ball of sensation. Her orgasm was unbelievably strong as her entire body shook with it. She shivered against him, her hand tightening on his shaft with such vigor he groaned. Knowing he couldn’t put off his own climax a second longer, Daeron covered her shaking hand with his own and started pumping his cock madly. His mouth took hers again, and she moaned. He was so hungry for her, it took only a few strong thrusts before he felt the heat shoot up his from his balls, hesitate and then explode all over the softness of her golden stomach.

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CHAPTER 4 Afterward, Daeron wanted nothing more than to wrap Nessa in his arms and hold her through the night. What they had shared was more than just a quick release. Even though he hadn’t been inside her, they’d been as intimate as two people could be. He gazed down at her. Her eyes were closed, her lips were smiling, and to his eyes…she was so beautiful. His body still ached with the urge to cover and penetrate. A need so old and instinctive, so possessive, he literally had to fight against it. He knew he couldn’t have her…that she belonged to someone else, but the thought of her in her future mate’s arms caused him to growl out loud. The sound made Nessa open her eyes. Carefully, she 25

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reached up and touched his face. “What is wrong?” When his face closed up, she sighed. “Don’t shut me out, please. Isn’t it too late for that?” When he still didn’t answer, she glared back at him. “I asked you a question.” His eyes narrowed, then abruptly softened with amusement as he leaned over her, pressing his body against hers. “I don’t think you are in the position to be giving orders…princess.” Her mouth curved into a smile. “It’s Nessa…remember?” He gently pushed back her hair. “Nessa.” “Don’t be sorry for what we did, Daeron. I couldn’t bear it.” Heat flared in his eyes. “You are a princess, and I am your guardian. We have no future together.” He put an index finger over her mouth to quiet her when she tried to speak. “But…I don’t regret this. What I regret is that it couldn’t be more.” Her eyes filled. “Daeron…you didn’t have to give me pleasure, but you did.” “Yes.” “Why? It was unnecessary. We needed only your seed.” His mouth tightened. “It was very necessary. I couldn’t take my pleasure without giving you your own.” “I don’t understand.” He looked at her for a very long time. Then he sighed. “I would not have you remember our only time together as one where I was selfish. I care too much about you to allow that.” “Daeron…” He heard her voice soften and purposely changed the subject before their emotions got too high. “As much as I’d 26

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like to lie with you longer, attayn, we have to get out of here.” Trying to ignore her nakedness, he used his hand to wipe the spent seed from her body onto the sheets between her legs. Then, using the knife, he made a small incision high, on the inside of his arm where it wouldn’t be seen, allowing the blood to drip onto the sheet to mingle with his essence. Using a forefinger, he blended the two together, then painted his semi-hard penis with the mixture. At her questioning look, he shrugged. “He may look.” Nodding, she reached down and did the same to the inside of her thighs. “Then I should be prepared, just in case.” His jaw clenched. “He will not look at you again.” She just shook her head. “Let’s get this over with. I want to get out of here.” He rose from the bed, closing the robe back around him and putting aside the emotions that churned in him. “Cover yourself and try to look suitably ravished.” She chuckled, rising from the bed and wrapping a blanket around her. The stained sheet was easily seen in the low light. “I’m ready.” Going to the door, Daeron pulled it open, unsurprised when the slave master almost fell through the doorway. “G-g-g-good sir,” Lamal stammered as he scrambled for balance. “Is all well?” Daeron gestured toward the bed. “It’s done.” The man waddled over and examined the sheet. Pulling it from the mattress, he nodded happily. Glancing back at the cowering Nessa, he grinned. “If you are done with this one, I 27

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would like to have a chance with her.” Wanting to grab him and wring his neck, Daeron contented himself with a glare. “I will keep her for the night. I’m just getting started.” Lamal chortled as he rubbed his own flaccid cock. “I don’t suppose you’d like company?” Daeron grimaced in disgust. “I would not. Take your proof and leave us. And do not bother us again. I will leave when I’m ready!” Bowing, the slave master backed away. “As you wish, my fine traveler. But if you change your mind, I am but a call away.” Slamming the door shut, Daeron went to the draped showing area and made sure it was closed up tight. Then striding back to the bed, he whipped off the remaining sheet and handed it to Nessa, along with his soft linen shirt. “Clean yourself and get dressed,” he ordered quietly, as, using the robe he wore, he followed his own instructions. *

*

*

A few minutes later they were both somewhat clothed. Nessa wore his dark, long-sleeved shirt that reached to midthigh, and he quickly and efficiently bound her feet with strips of the sheet so she would be able to run. Wriggling her toes, she looked down at his bent head. Gone was the tender lover of earlier. Her guardian warrior was back in full force. She smiled. He wore only his leather trousers and hide boots, and his naked muscular chest made 28

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her ache to touch him. She might be partial, but to her, he was the handsomest man on the planet. He glanced up at her and his eyes softened for a moment. Then his face went granite hard. “It’s time.” They walked to the back of the small tent and he pressed his ear against the cloth. Nessa held still, barely even breathing. A few minutes later, he grunted in satisfaction. Using his knife, he cut an opening in the bottom of the tent and then crawled through. She waited until his head poked back in again. “It’s clear,” he whispered. “Hurry.” Going to her knees, she crawled through the opening. Once she was out, Daeron set a rock next to the flap to hide the opening. Then, taking her hand, he led her at a fast trot into the darkness of the surrounding forest. *

*

*

It was several hours later when Daeron stopped under the spreading branches of a torach tree. They were both breathing heavily. After a moment, he touched her flushed cheek, something he’d never done before. “You have done well.” She wrinkled her nose at him. “All those years of you chasing me is coming in handy now. I’m in good shape for this.” His eyes flicked downward at her shapely legs. “I would agree.” Then he cleared his throat. “Exercise is good.” She looked around them. “Where are we?” “Far enough away, to rest. Now I can call Opakuv.” 29

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Her eyes lit up. “Your land dragon is here?” He nodded. “He was hidden in the forest outside the Pleasure Tent. I sent him off when I sensed trouble.” He concentrated, his eyes going a pale, unfocused green as he communicated with his steed. “He’s on his way now.” She sighed. She’d always wished she could have a land dragon, but they only bonded with male guardians. No woman could bond with a dragon, though she and Opakuv had become friends. “We will ride until dawn, then we can rest. It’s a two-day journey back to the castle. Traveling by night will be safer.” “Going home doesn’t sound so inviting, now.” Frowning, he met her eyes, then abruptly turned away. “We have no choice.” Looking at his strong profile, Nessa bit her lip. “Why did you go to the Pleasure Tent, Daeron?” He stiffened. “Princess, I told you—leave it alone.” She moved in front of him. “I can’t. Not now. Not after what we shared.” She touched his chest. “Why, Daeron? Why not just take your pleasure from one of the slaves in the castle? Or in town.” His jaw ticked as he tried to hold onto his temper. “Nessa…it is unseemly to speak to you about this.” She rolled her eyes. “As I said before, it’s a little late for that. By the goddesses, we’ve seen each other naked! Tell me!” He gave a loud growl and she almost recoiled at the fury that leapt into his eyes as he grabbed her slim shoulders. 30

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“You want to know why?” he snarled as he gave her a hard shake. “It was because of you. I didn’t want you to know what I was doing!” She blinked at his anger. “I…I don’t understand.” She searched his grim face. “I don’t have a right to stop you.” She sighed. “Even though I wish I did.” He swore aloud. “I didn’t want you to know because the type of woman I was looking for would have shamed you.” “I still don’t understand, Daeron.” He shook her again. “You want to understand? Fine! I was looking for a princess.” His hands tightened as he stared down into her bright golden eyes. “Damn it! I was looking for a woman I could pretend…was you!”

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CHAPTER 5 Nessa’s eyes widened so big, Daeron thought he could fall into them. “What?” she squeaked. He dropped his hands from her arms and turned away. “I lusted after you, so much it was affecting my work,” he growled. “I had to do something. But if it got around I’d gone to a whore who looked like you…” “People would have talked,” she finished for him, in a voice so quiet he could barely hear her. “Yes. So I rode far away so I wouldn’t be recognized.” He laughed sourly. “But, even then, I couldn’t escape you.” “Don’t look at it that way.” Hurt by his attitude, her words 32

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came out sharply. “Your need saved my life. If you hadn’t been looking for a woman who looked like me, who knows what might have happened. His jaw clenched. “The goddesses protected you, Nessa. I was just their instrument.” Her eyes flashed. “And we were both instruments in each other’s pleasure. You got what you came for after all, didn’t you, guardian? And now we can go back home and pretend nothing ever happened.” She whirled and walked away from him. She’d almost made it to the edge of the forest before he caught her, his arms snaking out and pulling her back against him. “I’m sorry, prin—Nessa. I didn’t mean it the way it came out.” He turned her so their eyes met. “I…care about you. And I know it can go no further. Wanting you is…painful.” She laid her head against his chest. They stood in silence for several minutes before she sniffed. “My mind knows its duty, Daeron, but my heart doesn’t listen so well.” Lifting her head, she kissed his chin. “Don’t you understand? I feel the same way. I care about you, too…and not just as my kesol. What we shared tonight was very special to me.” Daeron held her, but said nothing more. Nothing would change what they were. Guardian and princess, kesol and tathar…they could be nothing else. *

*

*

They were silent during the long ride, each caught in 33

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private thoughts. Opakuv carried them through the waning night until finally, just before sunrise, Daeron found a small meadow near a rushing stream. Using his guardian skills, he quickly made camp. A small, smokeless fire was soon burning, and Nessa stood close to it, shivering a little in the pre-dawn air. He strode over and wrapped the leather jacket he’d taken from his pack around her shoulders. “We don’t want you to get sick.” He tucked the fabric under her chin. Daeron knew he was touching her more than he’d ever done before, but he couldn’t help it. He felt like a man who’d tasted paradise and knew he’d never have another chance. He wanted to store away the memories, deep in his soul. He knew he was running out of time with her, not just during this ride, but as her kesol as well. She would be of full age very soon. Sometime after, she would leave to go to her mate, and he would never see her again. The very thought almost brought him to his knees. He couldn’t imagine his future without her in it. “Can I bathe?” Her voice brought him back from his morose thoughts. He glanced over at the water. “It will be cold.” “I just want to wash up.” She frowned and took his arm, examining the cut he’d made. “And you need to clean this.” He nodded. “You go first. I’ll keep a lookout.” *

*

*

She didn’t take long. The water was too cold for that. As 34

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she washed, Nessa wondered if Daeron watched her. Could he see the way her nipples pebbled in the icy stream? Would it affect him if he did? Her body warmed at the thought. Using the sand to wash her skin, she muttered a Caerelian chant, unconsciously cleansing and preparing herself. Her hands moved in elegant dancing motions as she stretched them up to the two moons and then back down to the water. When she realized what she was doing, she blinked in shock. She was getting ready to mate. Nessa glanced up at the man standing tall and strong by the fire and all her reservations fell away. He was the most important man in her life. She wanted this. As her gaze lingered on his handsome face, she finally admitted what she’d known all along. She was in love with him. The knowledge slammed into her, and suddenly shivering from more than the cold water, she climbed out of the creek and dried herself with Daeron’s shirt. Her mind churned. She might love him, but she was promised to another. Her honor and the future of her world depended on her bonding with the man her father had chosen. But, while walking back to the fire, Nessa acknowledged the truth to herself. No matter what may happen tomorrow, she wanted Daeron, even if it was only for one night. *

*

*

Daeron scrubbed the sweat from his body. He’d sent Nessa to check on the land dragon, so he could have a moment of 35

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privacy. The last thing he needed was to have her close to him when he was naked. He wasn’t sure if he’d have the strength to walk away from her again. He rubbed harder, welcoming the pain. It took his mind off things. Like…how he wanted her more than anything in this world. Or even worse…the truth that had burned inside him since he’d rescued her. In the years he’d protected Nessa, his feelings had gone from irritation with her behavior to admiration to something much deeper. He’d watched her grow from a giggling teenager to a loving, intelligent woman. And even though he knew it was impossible, he’d made the biggest mistake of his life. He’d fallen in love with her. He swore out loud and ducked his head under the water, hoping to cool the arousal in his body. He was a fool and for the rest of his days he would suffer for it. “Do you want me to wash your back? Daeron whirled around, water streaming down his face. Nessa stood behind him, wrapped only in his jacket, her eyes running appreciatively over his naked body. Too late, he covered himself. “Princess!” he protested. She laughed at him. “It’s not like I haven’t seen it before.” She tossed off his jacket, waded in and scooped up some sand. “Now, stop being a baby and turn around.” Caught between outrage and arousal, he obeyed, not wanting to look at her naked body. “If your father saw us—” She slopped some sand between his shoulder blades and 36

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started rubbing. “Don’t worry about my father, Daeron. I told you once before, I will do nothing to shame myself.” He groaned at the feel of her hands on him. Even though they weren’t overtly sexual, they felt so good. They smoothed down over his back and up his sides, then concentrated on the breadth of his shoulders. He felt her duck down to rinse her hands and expected to feel water splash on him, but instead he felt her bare breasts press against his back as her arms encircled him. He reacted, stumbling away from her in such shock he pulled them both down into the water. When he surfaced, he found her sitting next to him, wiping the water from her eyes and laughing. “Are you alright?” he asked. She smiled. “Didn’t expect that, did you?” He reddened. “No.” She surprised him again by leaning in and kissing his wet mouth. Her lips were cold from the water, but they heated instantly against his. He groaned low in his throat as his entire body warmed. Pulling away, he got to his feet, cursing the circumstances that forced him to do so. “We need to rest.” *

*

*

Nessa stared up at him. So…he was going to be difficult. Well, her training included what to do with reluctant males. Surely, she could use it here. She ignored his extended hand and got to her knees. When she lifted her eyes, his groin was right in front of her. As she watched, his shaft moved, 37

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lengthening and thickening in its bed of dark brown curls. Without thinking, she reached out and wrapped her hand around its turgid length, feeling it swell even more at her touch. He tried to pull away, but she stopped him. Soon, his cock was rock hard, pointing up at the disappearing moons. She licked her lips, and leaning closer, took him into her mouth. He hissed her name and tried to pull away a second time, but still she wouldn’t let him. She’d practiced this move on fruit more times than she could count, but this was the first time having a man in her mouth. His scent…his taste… All of it was highly arousing. Sucking hard, she moved up and down his throbbing cock. His hand went to her head, but he seemed undecided whether to push her away, or hold her closer. She took advantage of his indecisiveness, scooting closer to cup his heated sack in her hand. Daeron took huge gulps of air. “Nessa,” he gritted. “Please, princess. Stop this.” Shaking her head, she moved even closer. One hand grasped his cock below her heated mouth, while the other squeezed his balls gently. Daeron braced himself against the rushing water and she felt him let himself go.

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CHAPTER 6 Nessa’s heart leaped when she felt his acquiescence. She trembled with the force of her love for her dark kesol…the one man who’d always been there for her. Removing her mouth from his throbbing shaft, she bent and licked the underside, tracing her tongue up the protruding vein to the base of the head. His deep groan filled her ears when she flicked at the ridge of skin beneath it. His hand grasped her hair and forced her to take him back into her mouth. She allowed it, her own body beginning to weep with its own need. He fucked her mouth, moving in and out, stronger and faster, until he was touching the back of her throat. He was so big, it was difficult to manage, but her love 39

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for him was so great, she wanted it…wanted everything. Suddenly, he pulled her away, and with one sweeping move, lifted her into his arms. He carried her from the water to the sleeping sack near the small fire. Carefully, he laid her down, his green eyes dark with emotion. “I want you, Nessa. It may be wrong, but I won’t ignore how I feel any longer.” Her eyes filled with tears of joy and she held her arms up to him. “Please,” she said simply. “I’ve always wanted you to be the one.” His eyes flared with heat, but she saw the anguish in his eyes. “I am stealing away your purity,” he said hoarsely. She shook her head and took his face between her hands. “No!” she said firmly. “You’re not! Trust me, Daeron. This gift is mine to give, I swear.” Framing her face in his hands, he kissed her again, his mouth molding to hers with erotic intent. His tongue traced her lips, mapping each crease, each nerve ending, until she moaned with delight. His kisses grew stronger and he delved into her mouth. Her entire body trembled when he sucked gently on her tongue. His mouth left hers, moving down her soft cheek to the curve of her neck. Taking her hands, he held them on each side of her head. He kissed his way down to the crown of her breast, licking his lips when he saw the erect berry before him. He lipped it, and she cried out softly as she arched toward him. Taking the nipple in his mouth, he swirled his tongue 40

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around it. She cried out his name, struggling to free her hands, but he held them tightly. Moving to the next breast, he gave it the same sensual treatment. It was clear he was determined to bring her to the same high pitch of desire he felt. Nessa floated on a cloud of passion and need. She wanted to touch him, but he wouldn’t allow it. As his mouth moved over her, she could feel the warmth in her body rising until it all but consumed her. She writhed against him, finally succeeding in freeing one hand. She wrapped her arm around his neck, pulling her closer to him, so her breasts brushed against his muscled chest. She moved back and forth, teasing his skin with her sensitized nipples. When he groaned and pulled her hard against his aroused body, she smiled. Her lips met his in a heated kiss. Tongues dueled and teeth nipped gently. She burned to have him inside of her. She’d tasted him…now she wanted to feel him. But he wasn’t ready yet. Holding her down with one large hand, his mouth left hers to move gently down her stomach. Her legs trembled as he buried his face between her thighs. When his tongue snaked out to encircle her erect clitoris, she cried out his name in delight. *

*

*

She tasted so good. A mixture of sweetness and spice that made his mouth water. Carefully, he laved the soft folds, tickling each side, before flicking her clit with his tongue. A flood of moisture covered his chin and he shuddered at the 41

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flavor of her. He licked his way down to the creamy channel, his tongue making its first foray into her heated quim. She cried out again, her hips lifting instinctively. He growled, holding her still as he feasted. He stabbed his tongue deep into her several times, then teasingly licked his way back up to her clit. There, he stopped, circling the throbbing flesh again and again, until she whimpered and grabbed his head. Feeling her body tense, he didn’t hesitate, but took the tiny kernel between his lips and sucked. She screamed as her body convulsed beneath him. “Again,” he murmured, not allowing her to rest. His tongue speared into her, while this time his thumb pressed down onto her sensitive flesh. When, a few moments later, his mouth covered her breast and began to suckle, Nessa’s body contracted in spasms of delight so great he could feel them against him. Daeron’s own body throbbed with a need so great, he couldn’t stand it. When she came down from her second climax, he looked at his princess. Her face was rosy, her lips swollen. Her flushed body trembled with what she’d just experienced. When her eyes opened, he was surprised to see they were still filled with a need as great as his own. Her lips parted, and, lifting her hands, she threaded her fingers through his tousled hair. “Please, Daeron,” she whispered in a breathy voice, “I want to feel you inside me. I’ve waited so long…wanted you for so long.” Her words inflamed him, his body clenching hard in need. 42

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He moved quickly between her legs, urging them apart with his knee and easing his weight down on her. He speared his own fingers through her sky blue hair and stared into her sunlit eyes. “For this moment in time, Nessa, we are one. You belong to me.” He took her mouth again in a hard passionate kiss, allowing his emotions full rein for the first time in his life. Her response was immediate. Her lips parted, allowing him entrance, even as she ran her hands over his shoulders and down his strong back. His cock throbbed with urgency, its head already slick with pre-cum. He pressed against her, feeling himself slip past the moist folds and into her warm channel. His deep groan filled the night air as he eased himself deeper into her satin heat. She felt so damn good he had to fight not to come too fast. Slowly, he pushed forward, waiting to be stopped by the thin membrane that signified her virginity. When she tightened around him, his control shattered and he thrust balls-deep into her wet, waiting quim. She cried out and wrapped her legs around his waist. His mind knew something was wrong, but his body didn’t care. The feel of her twined around him was more than he could take. His cock demanded satisfaction…now. Urgently, he began to move, fighting not to slam into her with everything he had. This was her first time, a precious gift he wouldn’t disregard. Holding back his own pleasure, he adjusted himself so he pressed against her clit. Then, he kissed her, waiting until she 43

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moved with him as he led the erotic dance with their heated bodies. *

*

*

Nessa couldn’t breathe. He was so hard, so big. Nothing she’d been taught could prepare her for the real thing. She felt full, his burning length buried deep inside her. Little moans escaped her, but his mouth swallowed the cries, as he thrust against her. When he grabbed her butt and pulled her tight against him, she felt heat building in her stomach again. She whimpered, unable to do anything but experience the soul-shaking tremors as her climax wound tighter and tighter. Then, without warning, like an over-wound spring, she unraveled, her muscles clenching down hard on his cock. He muttered something under his breath and pulled his mouth from hers. His eyes blazed with need and triumph…and something more. Then, impossibly, his cock swelled even bigger and, with the roar of her name, he exploded, emptying himself deep inside her. Shuddering in pleasure, they held each other, feeling the sensations in their bodies slow, along with their racing hearts. “Princess,” Daeron’s voice rumbled a long time later, when he could finally talk, “you have some explaining to do.” Nessa smiled and pushed at him so he rolled onto his back. She leaned over him, kissing his bristly chin. “I thought men didn’t want to talk.” She ran her hand up his chest, playing with his exposed nipples. At his indrawn breath, she chuckled. 44

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“Besides, I’m not done with you yet.” He groaned again, when her mouth replaced her fingers. He grabbed at her head, lifting it so their gaze could meet. “You were not a maiden, Nessa.” Fire burned in his eyes. “I was not the first.” She sighed, knowing he was under the same misconception as most other males. “I didn’t lie to you, Daeron. You were the first.” He shook his head. “I breached no barrier, though you were very small and tight.” She knew it wouldn’t be easy for her to explain. “When a woman of my world turns eighteen, certain medical procedures are done.” Daeron gazed at her blankly. “No Caerelian male wants his first night of pleasure interrupted by pain,” she continued, “so they surgically fix it so there is no membrane. No barrier, no bleeding. The male is happy.” He shook his head. “They do this so your mate will be happy?” When she nodded, he frowned. “But what about your happiness?” “My happiness is not part of the equation.” Her lips turned up in a sad smile. “A Caerelian woman has but one duty, Daeron…to bond with her mate. It is what I am.” Bending, she kissed him. “But I’m glad they did the surgery. Without the worry of pain, I can spend the rest of the day making love to you.” “But—” 45

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She pulled away and, before he could stop her, straddled him. Her sultry eyes looked down at him. “Please, Daeron, I don’t want to waste time arguing about my world’s traditions and rules. There are too many other interesting things to do. And I have some special things I’ve been aching to try out on you.” His sensuous mouth moved into a slight grin. “You have? What, for example?” Giggling, she bent and began kissing his throat, his chest, anything she could get to. “How about this?” she murmured, as she felt him harden beneath her. Without hesitation, she moved above him and impaled herself on his hard cock. They both groaned. She placed her hands on Daeron’s broad shoulders, enjoying the way his body clenched beneath her. Now she could finally try out some of the lovemaking techniques she was so well-versed in. “Nessa,” he panted as his hands went to her hips to guide her, “is this part…of what you learned in all those secret lessons?” Her hands began to pluck at his nipples and she was rewarded by him swelling even bigger within her. She kept moving slowly up and down, reveling in the heated expression on his face. “It is. And I have longed to practice them all on you. What do you think I dream of in my lonely bed at night?” His eyes went dark at her words. She rode him faster and faster, giving him the gift of her body. She held herself back until she felt him spasm inside her. He shouted her name, clasping her tightly in his strong arms, as he filled her with his 46

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seed. Only then did she let herself fly to the clouds, her own climax roaring through her like a strong wind. Afterward, as she drifted back to earth, he pulled her closely against him, pressing his lips to her hair. Nessa’s eyes smarted with sudden tears. Now she had an even bigger problem than being kidnapped. After this…after this wonderful time of sharing, would she ever be able to love anyone else but Daeron?

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CHAPTER 7 Nessa was loving and generous with her body, and Daeron repaid her with his own. He laughed when she explained how she’d been trained in the art of lovemaking, but until him, had never been with a man. He made up for lost time, taking her in more ways than she knew existed. And since Caerelian women were implanted with contraception chips when they began their training, they had no worry about birth control. Because this was the only time they would have together, their lovemaking was tinged with sadness, with an urgency neither could deny. When they finally fell asleep in the late afternoon, they were both satiated, clinging to each other, their bodies speaking of a love their lips could not. 48

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*

*

*

It was because of this feeling of well-being Daeron almost missed the first warning call. Opakuv sounded the alarm aloud, as well as in his head, and it was only his training that prevented him from rolling back over and gathering Nessa in his arms. Leaping to his feet, he groggily shook his head as he looked over the peaceful meadow. His dragon’s warning sounded again, and this time he saw the telepathic image, a line of men marching just beyond the tree line. Swearing at his own stupidity for not keeping watch, he bent and shook her roughly. “Princess, we have company.” She blinked her eyes open, her sleepy, satisfied look disappearing when she saw his grim face. Rolling to her knees, she reached immediately for his shirt, tossing him his leather pants. “Who is it?” she asked as she pulled the tunic over her naked body. Her eyes scanned the meadow. “It looks like some of the slave master’s men. Damn it,” he swore. “If we’d gotten a little closer to the castle, we’d have help. I sent word through Opakuv yesterday, but it’s too early for them to come to our aid.” Daeron dragged Nessa over to his land dragon. “They are all around us. I will make a hole in their defenses for you to get through. I want you to get on Opakuv and ride.” “I’m not leaving you behind,” she said furiously, digging in her heels. She grabbed his knife out of his side pack. “You 49

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take the sword. I’ll use this.” He frowned fiercely. “Princess, your safety is more important.” Her chin went up. “No!” He glared at her. “You will obey me!” She glared right back. “I haven’t before. Why would I now?” Growling, he wrapped his hand in her flowing hair. “Damn it. You will because of what we mean to each other. Please, ayattn, do this for me.” She cupped his chin in her hand. “I can’t, Daeron. It’s because of what you mean to me that I must stay.” His eyes flashed in fury and he grabbed her, intending to toss her into the saddle anyway, but just at that moment, the enemy broke from the trees. Cursing, he set his disobedient lover at his back. “Do what you must,” he gritted out, “but promise me you will keep yourself safe.” Swallowing, she nodded. Then they both faced the men who’d come to take her away. There were about twenty of them, he judged. All big and war-scarred, he knew they would find no quarter with these men. If he were killed, they’d take Nessa back, but only after they had enjoyed her themselves. The very thought made his blood boil. Their enemy didn’t even try to parlay. They just attacked. The sound of metal hitting metal filled the air. Daeron killed two immediately, his sword hacking through their armor like butter. He ducked a killing blow and pierced the third one 50

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deep in the gut before he looked to see how Nessa was. She had the land dragon at her back and was cursing and stabbing at anyone who got too close. Opakuv was helping by blowing his hot breath at any of the enemy, as well as slapping at those who got too close with his barbed tail. Daeron turned back just in time to stop a lance from driving deep into his chest. The impact against his sword drove him back, but he stayed on his feet. He refused to allow them to take her. He kept fighting, sending one man after the other to his death. Time seemed to stand still in the meadow. All that was heard was the sound of men cursing, the clash of weapons and the bellow of an angry land dragon. The fight went on until there were only a few men standing. Daeron had just driven his sword deep into a man’s neck when he heard Nessa scream. Swiftly, he turned, just in time to see Opakuv driven to his knees by a heavy blow to the head. The man who’d delivered it reached over the top of the fallen dragon and plucked the princess up, tossing her over his shoulder. But he didn’t reckon on her temper. Screaming in rage at the dragon’s fall, she drove her knife deep into his back, right between the shoulder blades. The man shouted in pain and toppled like a log, pinning her beneath him. Cursing, Daeron vaulted over the fallen dragon and pulled the man off her. “Are you alright?” She nodded, her breath still lost from the crushing blow. Then her eyes widened and looked beyond him. 51

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He leapt aside in time to prevent his head from being separated from his body. As it was, the blade sliced deep into his side. He gasped in sudden agony, his vision graying. “No!” cried Nessa. *

*

*

Without thinking, she picked up the sword that had fallen from Daeron’s limp hand. Screaming, she swung it as hard as she could. The man, surprised by the sudden move, had no chance. She neatly chopped off his head. Suddenly, there was noise all around her. Again, the meadow was full of men. Nessa growled, standing over her lover’s fallen body, sword at the ready. They wouldn’t hurt him again. “Princess!” a voice shouted. “It’s us. Lay down your weapon!” She blinked. The fury cleared from her eyes and she saw Kemel, master of the guardians standing before her. The sword clattered to the ground. They were safe! Dropping to her knees, she bent over Daeron’s still form. Her stomach clenched when she saw the severity of his wounds. Kemel also knelt. One look had him shaking his head. He put his hand on Daeron’s shoulder. “He was a good man.” “He is not dead,” she denied immediately, her eyes filling with tears. “I’m sorry, Princess Nessa,” the older man said. “He will be soon. He took a mortal blow.” 52

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Daeron groaned. His eyes opened, but they were blank. “Tell her,” he rasped. “Tell her… Eas ayattn. Mi orn tia case.” A trickle of blood leaked from his mouth and he went still. “What did he say?” Nessa wept, her hand caressing her kesol’s face. Kemel shook his head. “It was in his native tongue. I don’t know it.” She stared down at Daeron. What had he said? Who was he calling for? She shook her head as copious tears streaked down her golden cheeks. He’d saved her, fought for her, kept her safe. She refused to let him die for her as well. It couldn’t end this horrible way, here in this lonely wood. Closing her eyes, she knew what she had to do. She would be punished, but duty and honor be damned. She would save the man she loved. She looked up at Kemel. “Leave us.” His eyes widened at her tone. Bowing, he moved away. Trembling at the enormity of her decision, she took a deep, cleansing breath. It would change her life irrevocably, but her soul would have it no other way. Bending over his still body, she placed her hand on his heart. Then, taking his limp, bloody one, she placed it against her breast. “I love you,” she whispered, speaking the words aloud for the first time. “Now and forever.” Touching her lips to his, she allowed the shielding she’d erected so long ago to fall away. Sweet, golden light poured from her, straight into his unconscious psyche. She murmured quietly to him, sharing her heart…her soul…her mind. 53

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Something moved between them, something indefinably precious, yet undeniably strong. It filled him. Nessa sensed it touching each part of his deepest self. The light permeated every corner of his spirit, his whole being. He groaned deeply. Even unconscious, she knew he felt it. Accepted it. His body warmed…glowing golden in the meadow. Little by little the wounds began to heal. Starting with the bruises on his face, to the small cuts on his hands, until finally the healing light reached the terrible mortal gash on his side. The flesh pulled together, the blood vessels renewed themselves, and the skin knit. After several long minutes, her guardian was as good as new. Carefully, she wiped the blood from his beloved face and straightened his torn clothing. A snort at her back made her go still, but then, incredibly, she felt the gentle touch of another mind. Turning, she saw Opakuv. She began to shake in reaction as she realized the mind touch she’d felt was his. He bumped her once with his great head and then huffed again. They both looked back at Daeron. Suddenly, her guardian’s eyes popped open and he took a deep, rasping breath. He looked up at her incredulously. “Nessa?” She smiled through a rain of tears. He might hate her when he found out what she’d done, but at least he was alive.

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CHAPTER 8 They made it back to the kingdom with no more problems. Daeron was still feeling a little achy and sore from his experience, but he could ride. The miracle of his healing was attributed to the goddesses, but he knew there was something more. Something he couldn’t quite remember. During the journey, Princess Nessa was uncharacteristically quiet, and it worried him. Knowing it was the last time they would have an excuse to touch, he’d pulled her up in front of him on Opakuv, just so he could hold her. The knowledge he was taking her back to her father and future mate made him sick to his stomach. Once they got back to the castle, she formally thanked him 55

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for rescuing her and gave him a sister-like hug. As he watched her disappear into the walled garden, he knew his love for her may go undeclared, but he would do everything in his power to make sure she was safe and happy. He took a few days to fully recover, then, after making sure Nessa was safely protected, he made good on his vow to kill the slave master. With a contingent of guardians at his back, he tracked the nasty man to his hideaway. Lamal begged and pleaded for mercy and even gave him the name of the messenger who’d carried the proof of the princess’ defilement back to the mysterious noble. But that hadn’t saved his miserable life. While the man’s newly freed slaves looked on, Daeron cleaved his head from his body for daring to lay hands on his princess. They had gone after the messenger next, but that turned out to be a dead end…literally. The courier’s body was pulled from a cistern the same morning they rode into town. They could find no information on who he’d worked for. Frustrated and worried for Nessa’s safety, he headed back to the palace. He gave a full report to King Simius, and security was heightened, but not knowing why or how they had gotten into the palace to take his princess made Daeron even more nervous. It didn’t help that she avoided him. Ever since their time in the forest, they’d barely spoken. He stood guard over her, true, but that was all. She seemed to go out of her way to make sure they were never alone together. It ripped at his already-sore heart to think she was regretting what they had shared 56

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together. As the days passed into weeks and she made no mention of the pleasures they’d shared, he had to accept that whatever they’d had…it was over. Daeron was given a medal for saving her, but it meant nothing to him. The woman he loved was truly lost to him. The time for her mating was drawing closer, and he knew she would soon be leaving the planet. No matter what had happened before, she was a princess, and he was her guardian. And that was all there could ever be between them. *

*

*

“What do you mean you cannot bond with him?” The king’s voice roared through the throne room. Nessa flinched. She’d known this day was coming. She stood before her father and mate-to-be, trying not to tremble. “I am sorry, Father, but I am no longer pure.” Aerandir, her betrothed from the planet Elrondar, stepped toward her, his face livid with anger. “You have betrayed me with another man? Given him your body?” He lifted his hand. “Whore!” Before he could connect, a tall form stepped between them. Eyes the color of a forest meadow glared at the prince. “You will not touch her.” Aerandir snarled menacingly. “You dare come between me and my bride?” Daeron inclined his head. “She is not yet…yours.” “Enough,” the king shouted. He walked toward his daughter. “Her body is of no consequence. But her purity?” 57

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He glared at Nessa. “What have you done?” “Of no consequence?” Aerandir sputtered. “How can you say that?” King Simius waved a hand. “Is that all you off-worlders think of? Sex?” He snorted. “Bonding has nothing to do with sex, you fool.” Daeron turned and looked at Nessa. She stood there miserably, her beautiful face touched by shame. Now he understood why she’d told him making love with him wouldn’t disgrace her. The sex they’d shared had nothing to do with her purity for her mate. But, if that was so, why couldn’t she mate with the prince now? It didn’t make sense. “If that’s true, what makes your women so special?” the prince asked in bewilderment. “What else is there?” The king sighed. He looked at the guards, including Daeron. “Leave us.” “My king.” There was steel in Daeron’s tone as he stared at the blond prince. “I am your daughter’s protector. I would prefer to stay.” The king opened his mouth to refuse, but then caught sight of Daeron staring at the Elrondarian’s angry face. He nodded and motioned the other guards out. When the door closed, he turned to Aerandir. “What I say here isn’t generally spoken of outside our people. We say little about the true meaning of the bonding, speaking of it only when the actual ceremony takes place. What others wish to believe about our women is up to them.” He stroked his graying beard. “When my ancestors first 58

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settled this planet, we found it inhabited by a backward race of humanoids. They knew nothing of proper social structure or responsibilities. The women were regarded as having equal status with the men.” He shook his head at the thought. “Of course, we conquered them and set all to right.” The king walked over to the window. “There were some who refused to submit to the new rules. They were either banished or destroyed, and eventually, through the heroic effort of the ruling class, the two races melded and became one.” Daeron hoped his anger didn’t show on his face. What the king was boasting of was nothing less than the eradication of an entire people. Oh…they weren’t killed, but something just as bad. Their way of life was annihilated. King Simius went on, “As the two races came together, there were those noblemen who took the women to their beds. It was when the two bloods mingled that we discovered the miracle. Yet not all births gave it to us, and it happens more in some families than in others. It was soon realized only one child in a hundred have the gift, and every one of those is female.” He glanced at his daughter. “Nessa is what we call an Empathic Metamorphe. She is one of a special noble few born with the rare ability to sense exactly what her mate desires. When she bonds with a man, she imprints on him, so, from that point forward, she becomes what he wants her to be.” The king turned to the prince. “Think of it. A woman who is everything you want. Without training, without argument. 59

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Ask it of her and she will do it.” Daeron couldn’t help himself. “But that’s virtual slavery.” The king’s eyes narrowed, but then he laughed. “She was born to it. Centuries’ worth of breeding and training has made her what she is. A Caerelian metamorphe knows no other life. Once she is bonded, she is the perfect woman…the perfect companion. Aerandir’s eyes sparkled as he realized just how valuable Nessa really was. “I want her. I will forgive her whoring.” “You still don’t understand,” King Simius said with disgust. “We are not talking about sex. If she is not pure, she has already bonded with someone else.” He turned to his daughter. “Is this true, Nessa?” She swallowed. “Yes, Father.” “Well,” snarled the prince, “make her undo it!” “That,” the king said heavily, “is impossible. Once a metamorphe has bonded, it is forever.” “Who is the man?” Aerandir raged. “I demand to know. I will kill him where he stands.” Nessa’s chin went up. “He doesn’t know what happened. He is as ignorant of bonding as you.” King Simius narrowed his eyes in speculation. “He knows nothing?” She shook her head. “I want satisfaction,” her betrothed shouted. “Or our worlds will be at war.” Nessa gasped. Her worse fears were coming true. “I’m sorry, Father.” 60

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He glared at his daughter again before turning to the enraged man. “Prince Aerandir,” the king soothed, “I have another daughter. Lyntel has just turned eighteen. She is yet unclaimed and still pure, but she has received all the training necessary. Will you take her in Nessa’s stead?” The prince’s blue eyes slowly calmed. He thought a moment, his eyes moving between Nessa and the king. Then he bowed. “I accept your offer. After all,” he sneered, “one princess is just the same as another.” His jaw tightened, but the king only replied, “As you say. I will arrange for the bonding to take place as planned. Would you care to wait in your quarters?” Without another word, Aerandir turned on his heel and left. There was a long silence before the king turned back to his daughter. “Why Nessa? You could have destroyed us all.” Her eyes filled with tears. “I had no choice, Father. I am in love with him.” *

*

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Daeron felt like he’d been punched in the gut. Now he knew why she’d been avoiding him. She’d found love with another. But how? When? It didn’t make sense. She always seemed so sad, and he’d seen no evidence of any man in her life. Who could it be? “Don’t be ridiculous,” the king snarled. “Love is not for your kind, daughter. To give such a gift away for love is foolishness. It is to be used for power…for gain.” Simius took his daughter’s chin firmly in his hand. “Tell me who are you 61

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bonded with? Perhaps I can still use this to my advantage.” She bit her lip. “Please, Father…” “Answer me, Nessa.” Command rang in his voice. “Who is it?” She closed her eyes and when she opened them, they were full of despair. “He was dying, Father. He’d saved me from the men who took me away. I couldn’t let him die.” Daeron froze. He stared at her, his eyes wide with shock. Her words stabbed into him like the sword that had almost killed him. He was the one she’d bonded with? Then her original words slammed into his mind. He was the one she loved? Without thinking, he grabbed her arms, turning her to face him? “Nessa?” “I’m sorry, Daeron,” she choked out. “I have done this without your permission. But I couldn’t let you die. I love you too much!” “I don’t understand,” he muttered. His world was rocking on its axis. She loved him? “How? I don’t feel any different.” She shook her head miserably. “I shielded you.” She touched his hard jaw. “If I hadn’t done it, your wound would have killed you. As an empath, I can heal the one I’m bonded with. I made a choice…and now we are trapped in this.” Daeron still couldn’t believe it. “That is how I was healed? Through bonding? You bonded with me?” “He?” shouted Simius, finally finding his voice. His face was a study of fury and astonishment. “He is the one you waste your gift on? He is nothing, a nobody!” 62

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“He is the man I love!” Her father growled and slapped her across her face. “You have betrayed me, your family and your world!” Daeron pulled the princess behind him. He fought not to strike the man. “Highness! Please!” “Guardian,” the king said sternly, his anger still obvious to all. “What I think of you not withstanding, it is against our laws for a woman to bond with a man without his knowledge or permission. It is within your rights to have her put to death.” “What?” Daeron stared at the king. “Kill her? Are you insane?” Remembering who he was speaking to, he quickly bowed. “Forgive me, my king. I am just surprised.” “Then you wish to accept her…as your mate?” Daeron wanted to shout his happiness to the sky, but controlling himself with an effort, said only, “I don’t want her put to death, King Simius. I will take her.” The king nodded. “Then you are now mated. Better than anyone, you know what a disobedient woman she is. Although, that will all be different now.” He turned his cold eyes to his daughter. “Because you have shamed us, I will not formally give you away. Your bonding will never be celebrated.” Nessa swallowed. “I understand.” Daeron bit back an angry comment. He knew it was very important to keep his temper now. “My king, I would ask to be relieved from the guardian service. I think it would be better if I took Nessa to my home world.” 63

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Simius hesitated briefly before nodding. “Agreed. That way her shame will never be known.” He looked one more time at his oldest daughter. “You will stay for your sister’s mating, but then you will leave. The longer you are here, the more questions will be asked.” Tears trickled down Nessa’s cheeks. Her voice was a mere whisper. “Yes, Father.” “Goodbye, Nessa. I will not speak to you again. You have made your choice. This time, try to honor our people by giving your new mate everything you are.” Her eyes downcast, she nodded. Wrapping his arm around her shoulders, Daeron led Nessa from the throne room. His heart was beating so fast it almost hurt. He said nothing until they reached her private rooms. Then he turned her to face him. Her guilt-ridden face made his throat tighten. “Nessa,” he said quietly, “look at me.” She lifted tragic eyes to his. “I don’t regret saving you.” Her chin went up. “No matter what you do to me, I can’t be sorry.” His chest wrenched. “I don’t want you to be sorry you saved my life. But I’m sorry you’re being punished because of it.” She shrugged. “I knew what might happen when I made my choice. Actually, I expected worse. My father was within his rights to do much more.” Daeron touched the bruised cheek the king had slapped. “He will never touch you again,” he said fiercely. “This I 64

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promise.” He took her hands and held them against his chest. “You shielded me against you, so I wouldn’t know what really happened.” Nessa bit her lip and nodded. “So that means you shielded yourself from me as well.” Her blue-tinted brows came together. “Yes…what does that matter?” “A great deal, princess.” He took her into his arms and his eyes darkened. “I thought you regretted our lovemaking.” Her eyes widened and she shook her head. “Never, Daeron. My memories of you were the only thing that made this whole mess bearable. I stayed away from you because I was afraid the bonding would be revealed.” She looked guiltily at him. “I can mind-speak with Opakuv. I was worried he’d tell you.” She tried to pull away. “But I will try to be a good Bondmate to you, I swear, no matter how disobedient I was before.” Daeron chewed on the surprising thought of her communicating with his dragon for a moment. Then he smiled. “While the idea of a Bondmate is very interesting, I’m not looking for one.” His lips came down close to hers. “I want the woman who loves me.” She froze, staring up at him. “What?” His mouth brushed over hers with the softest of kisses. “Did you ever ask yourself why I stayed as your guardian? Even after all those times you tried to chase me off?” She grew even more confused. “It’s your job.” “Ayattn, ” he murmured between sweet forays to her lips. 65

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“Was it my job to teach you how to ride Opakuv? Was it my job to let you storm around the stable when you were mad at your father?” He kissed her deeper, feeling her tremble in his arms. “Was it my job that forced me to make love to you in the forest?” He searched her eyes as he framed her face. “And was it my job to tell you I loved you as I lay dying?” Her eyes went impossibly wide. They filled with hope that just as quickly faded away to despair. “You don’t love me. You never said that.” Now it was his turn to be confused. “I did, Nessa. It was the last thing I remembered.” She stared at him. “You…you spoke something in your own tongue.” Daeron cursed and shut his eyes. “No wonder you kept everything from me. You didn’t understand.” He pulled her closer, holding her tightly against him. “I told you I loved you…that you own my heart. I didn’t want to go to the goddesses without you knowing.” Nessa’s eyes overflowed. “You…love…me?” He smiled. “For a very long time, though, I could never say anything. You already belonged to another. Besides, I was a guardian…not worthy of you.” “Don’t say that! You are the best man I know.” Chuckling, he kissed the end of her nose. He wished he could see her father’s face when he discovered exactly who had bonded with his daughter. “You look at me with eyes of love. I think you might be partial.” 66

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She buried her head against his chest. Tears of joy ran down her cheeks. “I can’t believe it. I thought you would hate me for taking away your freedom.” “Hate you?” he wondered. “How can I hate the woman I love more than my own life?” Pulling her back, he kissed her again, his tongue stabbing deeply into her mouth. His hand ran down her side to cup her rear, pulling her against him so she could feel the strength of his need for her. When she moaned and arched against him, he groaned, falling backward to lie on the soft covers of her bed. They kissed, hungry for each other. He tasted, she teased. Clothing melted off as they rolled across the bed. When he stopped above her, they were both panting in need. Their eyes locked as he slowly slid inside her. They gasped at the feeling.. His hands threaded through her silky hair as he reveled in the rightness of their union. “I love you,” he whispered. Nessa’s body embraced his, squeezing him with rhythmic pulses. “And I love you.” She reached down and placed his hand on her wildly beating heart. Then she put hers on his. “You are my Bondmate, and I am yours,” she murmured. “Forever and for always…one with you.” And with that, she released the shield that had been between them. Love poured into Daeron’s soul, so bright, so intense it was almost painful. In a single moment, he knew all her thoughts, her emotions and her desires. He could feel his own feelings expand and grow until everything that he felt, Nessa did as well. His body heated until he felt he was enveloped in 67

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a golden cocoon of light. Suddenly, he realized why women like her were so sought after. What she was giving him right now was more intimate, more real than any other feeling he’d ever known. But what would it have cost her to do this with someone she didn’t love? The feelings he gave to her were of love, not just passion and desire. What would happen to a Bondmate who was nothing more than a pretty ornament for her mate? Who was allowed to reflect only what he wanted and could share nothing of herself. “Thank the goddesses,” he muttered, “you bonded with me that day and no one else. I love and want the real Nessa, not the Empathic Metamorphe version of her. Promise me you will remember that.” Her eyes filled again. “I promise. Although, you may be sorry sometimes.” “Sorry I’m mated to you? Never! You belong to me, princess…body and soul!” Nessa gasped again as he began to move. His hard length moved in and out of her heated channel. For the first time, their love for each other was undenied. She cried out his name and imploded, even as he swelled impossibly big and with one final thrust, exploded inside her. *

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She snuggled against him, still in shock she was laying here in his arms after everything that had happened. “You love me.” It still seemed impossible to her. 68

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He kissed her forehead. “I do.” He lifted himself up on one elbow. “Will it always feel like that?” “Like we are connected?” At his nod, Nessa smiled and ran a languid hand down his chest. “It is one of the gifts we give our Bondmate, if they choose. Complete openness.” Daeron grinned. “I choose.” Nessa giggled. “Actually, in this case, I chose you.” He laughed, but then sobered. “I am sorry you have to leave your world, princess. But I thought it would be safer for you. The circumstances of your kidnapping are still unknown. It bothers me we haven’t discovered the culprit.” She sighed. “I’m not sorry. I look forward to the adventure of seeing your planet. You told me so many stories. All that water and the wondrous creatures within it.” She gasped and her eyes widened. “But what about Opakuv? We can’t leave him behind.” Daeron chuckled. “I don’t plan on leaving anyone behind who belongs with me.” He rolled quickly until he lay beneath her. “And that includes you, my princess.” Smiling at the love and need she saw on his face, Nessa bent and kissed his hard mouth. “As I said before, my guardian, it’s Nessa…remember?” He brushed back her hair as he’d done once before, marveling at the fact that now he had the right. “My Nessa.” She leaned down, rubbing her full breasts across his chest. “At least now, my love, you will never again have to search for a woman in the pleasure tents.” Laughing out loud, he rolled so she was under him again. 69

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“I won’t need to, will I? I’ve got the princess I want…right here.” With a swift motion, he thrust into her again, making her gasp in delight. “Now, my sweet Bondmate, show me some more of those skills you told me so much about.” And with much pleasure, Nessa did so, giving herself over to the true guardian of her soul.

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GLOSSARY (In Alphabetical Order with Language Designations) Ayattn: Love (Maedalaerian) Carna: Small hummingbird: type avian (Caerelian) Eas Ayattn: I love you (Maedalaerian) Eas Oevw: I want you (Maedalaerian) Kesol: Protector (Caerelian) Mardesia: A strawberry-type fruit (Caerelian) Mi Orn Tia Case: You are my heart. (Maedalaerian) Tathar: Assignment or Charge (Caerelian) Torach: Large spreading oak-like tree (Caerelian) Vyri: Rose-like flower with very sweet smell (Caerelian)

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CJ ENGLAND

CJ England credits her passion for writing to her second-grade sweetheart, Steven, a blond-haired cutie with dimples, who dumped her for a girl who could swing on the monkey bars. She wrote her first story about love and loss after that tragic episode. In her life she has modeled, competed in rodeo as a barrel racer and trick rider, taught preschool, performed as an actress and singer, served cocktails at Disneyworld, specialized in production work, and got carried away by Spiderman when she worked with him at Universal Studios. She calls herself a gypsy, due to her curiosity and “itchy feet.” She has spent time in fourteen countries, and has visited forty-two states in our own. She is known on the Internet as an award-winning, best-selling author who can bring sensuality and romance together in ways that require you keep a fire extinguisher and a box of Kleenex handy. Described as having “innovative story lines,” “a whiz at character development” and “quite simply a genius,” CJ wants her books to spark the imaginations of her readers. So they will begin to believe anything can happen if you…Follow Your Dreams .

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