Vaaden Captives: Susan Jessica Coulter Smith All rights reserved.
Copyright ©2011 Jessica Coulter Smith
ISBN: 978-1-60521-563-1
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Vaaden Captives: Susan Jessica Coulter Smith Book three in the Vaaden Captives series, the final chapter. Susan finds herself drawn to both Randar and Sylon, but only one can claim her. Susan St. James has lived a hard life. The men she’s known have proven themselves to be faithless liars, manipulators, and even abusive at times. When she’s taken captive and transported to Vaaden, a planet in another galaxy, she figures not much has changed for her. Sylon, a male Vaaden warrior, comes to the holding cell to claim one of the slaves for his own. He chooses Susan, liking her willingness to please him. It doesn’t take long for Sylon to realize his captive is passionate and full of vivaciousness. However, Sylon has a temper, and after he accidentally injures Susan, he realizes that she means more to him than she should.
Chapter One I’d been held captive in the dank holding cell on Vaaden for far longer than I liked, so I was pleased to see the Vaaden warriors. My cellmates quaked in terror next to me and I fought the urge to roll my eyes. It was doubtful either of them would make it on this harsh planet. Thanks to the translation machine on the wall, I’d heard enough talk to realize we would be sold either as sex slaves or prostitutes. Honestly, considering some of the guys I had dated, being a man’s sex slave didn’t bother me, especially if there was a chance I would be taken care of. The first man stepped into the cell, a good six inches taller than my five-foot-six frame. He wasn’t as tall as the other two. His eyes were the color of a sunset and seemed to burn into me. Neatly brushed chocolate hair framed his face, and his features were pleasing; his full mouth was kissable. His skin was a dark bronze and I wondered if he worked outside. He quickly dismissed Sorcha and Enid and came to stand before me. Reaching out, he fondled my breasts with his large, warm hands, and I felt my nipples pucker in response. He seemed to be satisfied and shoved me to my knees. I knew what he wanted before he asked and I shivered in anticipation. He unfastened his pants and his large, thick cock sprang free, just begging for attention. “Suck me,” he commanded. I licked my lips and leaned forward, taking him into my mouth. I sucked and licked him, enjoying myself immensely. When he was close to finding his release, he grabbed a handful of my hair and shoved himself further into my mouth. I felt his warm cum shoot down my throat. “Swallow it all,” he said roughly. I was only too happy to comply. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Sorcha watching with a mixture of horror and fascination. If my mouth hadn’t been full, I
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would have grinned. I wondered what she would think if she knew I’d practically had to whore myself out to keep a roof over my head and food on the table. A line of drug dealer and alcoholic boyfriends had littered my past. Apartments infested with roaches and rats were the norm for me. I’d definitely been in worse situations. When the Vaaden was finished, he fastened his pants and hauled me to my feet. Facing the guard, he said, “This one is mine.” The guard looked at me. “Is that what you want? Or would you prefer a life serving many?” “I’ll go with him.” I felt like saying duh! What woman would prefer to be fucked by hundreds instead of belonging to just one guy? The guard nodded and motioned for us to leave the cell. The ground under my feet was rough and cold, but I didn’t care since I was free from that wretched cell. Outside, the double suns shone brightly, nearly blinding me. I winced and covered my face as best I could. Sensing my distress, my savior lifted me into his arms and carried me the rest of the way to my new living quarters. When we reached my new living space, he set me down on my feet once more. The door opened with a whoosh and he ushered me inside, and then flipped a switch inside the door I had learned activated the translator. The apartment-like space was on the plain side, but seemed functional. Honestly, it was better than some of the places I’d called home. If I didn’t have to share my bed with rats or bugs, it was a step in the right direction. “This is your new home.” The snarky side of me wanted to say something bitchy, but I refrained -- barely. “My home? Not your home?” He shook his head. “My home is with my wife.” Well, hell. It figured I would have to share him. That didn’t sit well with me, but there wasn’t anything I could do about it. I’d hoped to have him all to myself. He was a nice-looking guy and I’d wanted things to be different. My previous boyfriends had all cheated on me. Of course, on a planet where I was just a slave it had been silly of me to think that perhaps my owner might belong to me and only me.
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“So, if you live with your wife, how often will I see you?” I asked as I looked around. He leaned against a wall and watched me. “Often enough.” My fingers trailed over the back of a chair and I moved toward a door in the adjacent wall. “What’s in there?” “Your bedroom and bathing chamber.” “May I see it?” He grinned and nodded. He showed me how to work the door, and the silver panel slid into the wall, revealing a pale blue bedroom with a large round bed in the middle. Two doors were on the opposite wall. I assumed one was the bathroom and the other was the closet. “Would you like to take a shower?” His breath brushed against my ear and I realized he was standing directly behind me. With a flirtatious look over my shoulder, I nodded. He smiled and opened the bathroom door. Next, he showed me how to work the shower and the soap dispenser. “The water always comes out warm,” he said as he reached for me. Pulling my disgusting dress over my head, he threw it across the room, leaving me naked before him. He gazed at my body, his eyes lighting in appreciation of my generous curves. I took a step back, entering the shower, my eyes never leaving his. The water sluiced over me, drenching me from head to toe, and I reached for the soap. I took my time washing and rinsing my hair, the long locks matted from neglect. His gaze watched my every move. Reaching for the soap, I rubbed a generous amount onto my breasts, making my nipples stand erect. As I moved my hands down my stomach, I watched heat flare in his eyes. Reaching between my legs, I parted the lips of my pussy so he could watch as I soaped myself. My clit, swollen with need, begged to be touched. I groaned when my fingers brushed against it. My owner’s breathing had become hard. He was literally panting in anticipation. “Pleasure yourself,” he demanded.
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I smiled as the fingers of one hand worked my clit while I fondled my breast with the other. I threw my head back in gratification as my hips thrust against my fingers. It was only a matter of moments before I was riding a tidal wave of pleasure, having been sex-starved for weeks. Lightheaded, I sank to my knees in the shower, letting the jets rinse my body. I cracked open my eyes and saw that he had wrapped his fist around his cock but hadn’t finished yet. Placing my hand over his. He gave me a heated glare and I knew he was going to reprimand me. “It isn’t your place to stop me,” he growled. I gave him a seductive smile. “I wouldn’t dream of stopping you, but… since I’m still wet, I thought you might like to be inside me.” His eyes flared and he picked me up off the floor. Slamming his hand against the flat circle on the wall, he shut the shower off and set me down on my feet in front of the counter, a mirror directly in front of us. “Put your hands on the counter, and spread your legs for me.” I did as he bade me, feeling anticipation of what was to come. As his cock filled me, I closed my eyes and moaned, giving myself up to sensation. “Open your eyes and watch as my cock fills you, as I fuck you. And I want to see you watching us.” I gasped at the image his words created and opened my eyes. I stared in fascination as his hands cupped my breasts, his thumbs teasing my nipples, as he thrust in and out of me, harder and faster each time. As he thrust into me one last time, spilling himself inside of me, I allowed myself to let go, my release crashing through me, leaving me shaken. He chuckled and kissed my shoulder. “I think we’re going to do well together.” Sliding from my body, he picked me up and carried me to the bed, where he gently laid me on top of the covers. “What’s your name, slave?” “Susan. Susan St. James.” “I’m Sylon.” I gave him a sleepy smile and my eyes started to drift closed.
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His breath tickled my ear as he whispered, “Not yet, my sweet slave. I have much more planned for you before the night is finished.” He stretched out behind me, and pulled my back firmly against his chest. Parting my legs, he thrust into me again, taking me fast and hard. I realized he was going to finish before me and reached between my legs to pleasure myself, but he grabbed my hand and placed it on my thigh. “You only get to have pleasure if I give it to you, or give you permission to please yourself.” I nodded my understanding and enjoyed the feel of him sliding in and out of my body. I was so close to an orgasm when he finished that I wanted to cry. It didn’t seem fair and I was frustrated, but as a slave I knew I couldn’t very well demand satisfaction. For that matter, I doubted any woman would be allowed to demand anything of him. Wrapping a leg around mine, he kept my legs open and stayed buried inside of me. It didn’t take long before I felt him grow hard again. I was amazed at how quickly he could be ready. Earth men didn’t have anything on these Vaaden warriors, I thought with a smile. Without warning, he flipped me onto my stomach, spreading my legs as far as they would go. He slowly withdrew from my body, only to plunge his cock back into my pussy. A look over my shoulder showed that he was watching as his cock entered me again and again, and it turned me on. He threw his head back and groaned, thrusting into me one last time, hard and fast. While he’d made me feel great, I still hadn’t had an orgasm and it was making me cranky. I wasn’t used to men taking pleasure and not letting me have my own. “Sylon, please,” I heard myself beg. I wanted to cringe at the sound of my voice. I never begged. He rolled me to my back, his gaze raking me from head to toe. “Please what?” “I want to come.” He grinned, a wicked glint in his eye. “And just how badly do you want it?” “Very badly,” I answered breathlessly.
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“Bad enough to try something different?” I was intrigued and wondered what he had in mind so I nodded. At this point, I’d do anything to ease the ache growing between my legs. He slowly turned me over to my stomach again, pulling me up onto my hands and knees. He kissed the center of my back as his hands parted the cheeks of my ass, and suddenly I knew what he had in mind. This was a first for me, but I’d always wondered what it would feel like. After he used the juices from my pussy, his cock slowly eased into me, making me bite my lip and groan. There were no words to describe how I felt. It was a delicious combination of pleasure and a little pain, sending a shiver of delight down my spine. With his cock buried in my ass, I rocked back against him, enjoying the fullness. I’d been fucked lots of ways before, but trying something new with Sylon was exciting. I’d wanted him from the moment I’d seen him, and I wanted to please him. Most of all, I wanted to experience pleasure with him. I couldn’t explain why. I had no idea what made him different from any other guy in my life, but he was. He wasn’t as abusive as most of the guys I had dated before, so obviously my taste was improving. He wasn’t Prince Charming, but he wasn’t Genghis Khan either. At least, not that I’d seen thus far. Something told me that he was not only my present, but also my future, and not just because I was his slave. Call it a gut feeling or a premonition, but I wanted to be part of his life. It was inexplicable even to me, but there it was. I had a feeling he was going to be more caring than any man I’d been with before, at least that’s what my woman’s intuition was telling me. I only hoped it was right. He withdrew and drove back into me, hard and fast, making me gasp. “Do you like that?” “Oh God yes!” He chuckled and began fucking me hard and fast, each stroke more forceful than the previous, until I wasn’t sure I could stay on my hands and knees. Just before I fell to the bed, he came inside of me and we collapsed as my orgasm spiraled through me, leaving me weak but happy.
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He kissed my shoulder and pulled me tight against his chest. “Did you like that?” he asked softly. “Very much,” I answered with a sleepy smile. His large hands stroked my body, both stirring my desire and lulling me to sleep at the same time. I wanted him again, but I hadn’t slept well since being brought to Vaaden and my body was worn out. Not to mention I hadn’t had a decent meal in forever. Hunger and exhaustion won out and I fell asleep wrapped in Sylon’s arms.
Chapter Two When I woke, I discovered Sylon had left. It disappointed me he’d left without so much as a goodbye, but I knew he didn’t owe me anything. It just proved that my stupid heart never gave up. No matter how many times men had trampled it, the stupid thing kept looking for love -- and as per usual, it was looking in the wrong place. I should have known since he was married. Only I could try and fall in love with a guy after just one night. I stretched and winced. I couldn’t remember the last time I’d woken up sore from having sex. Then again, I couldn’t remember ever being with someone like Sylon before. The man was insatiable, and absolutely incredible. Maybe that’s why he’d left. I’d fallen asleep and he probably hadn’t been done with me yet. He’d allowed me to sleep, but perhaps he’d tried to wake me. With a frown, I wondered if I’d disappointed him or upset him. Would he get rid of me? I didn’t want to lose the greatest lover I’d ever had, but I wouldn’t blame him either. Getting out of bed, I decided to take a shower and find something to eat. Maybe after I had on something clean and had a full stomach, things wouldn’t look so bleak. And just maybe, Sylon would be back by then. When I looked in the closet, I saw two more dresses styled like the disgusting one I’d taken off the previous night. I shouldn’t have expected anything even remotely attractive. Instead, I selected a tunic style shirt that I assumed belonged to Sylon. Holding it up to my nose, I smiled, realizing it smelled like him. If I couldn’t have him here with me, this would be the next best thing.
*** After a shower and slipping Sylon’s shirt over my head, I walked into the kitchen and began digging through cupboards and something that resembled a pantry. Just one
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problem, they were all empty. With no food, no TV, or anything else to do, I went back to the bedroom and curled up on the bed. Maybe sleep would keep me from realizing how hungry I was, or at least I hoped it would. My stomach had been growling since I’d woken up. It had been two days since I’d last eaten, and after expending so much energy the night before, I wasn’t sure how long I would make it without food. Sylon, please hurry back. That was the last thought I had before falling into a dreamless sleep. I didn’t wake up again for over a day.
*** I felt hands shaking me, but I couldn’t make my eyes work. I wanted to open them, but no matter how hard I tried, nothing happened. “Susan, wake up! I did not give you permission to wear my clothes.” Sylon was back! I was elated, but at the same time, still floating on the little cloud I’d been on since falling asleep the day before. I’d never slept so much at one time before in my life. “Susan.” I still couldn’t answer him, even though his voice sounded worried. I no longer felt hungry, just weak and tired. Briefly, I thought that wasn’t a good thing, but then I felt myself being sucked back into sleep and I didn’t care about it anymore. A short while later, something cold, then a prick like a needle sliding into my arm and I felt something icy course through me. With a gasp, I opened my eyes and sat up in bed. I felt disoriented and looked around. A man dressed in white held my hand. “Good, you’re back.” “Back from where?” I frowned. My throat hurt and my voice came out scratchy. “From being close to death,” the man answered. “Why would you think I was close to dying?” I asked. He frowned at me. “When’s the last time you had something to eat or drink?” “I don’t know what day it is so I can’t say for certain.” “It’s been days?” Sylon asked in surprise.
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I shrugged a shoulder. “They didn’t feed me the day you came and chose me. I hadn’t eaten for a day or two before that. I don’t know why they singled me out.” The man in white looked at Sylon. “How long ago was that?” “It’s been nearly four days.” “She’s been without food and water for four days?” He nodded. “I hadn’t realized… there was supposed to be food here, but I checked the kitchen while I waited for you to arrive and it wasn’t stocked. But there was water.” Feeling weak, I lay back down and closed my eyes. “Susan, wake up,” Sylon demanded, a tinge of worry in his voice. My eyes fluttered open and I tried to smile at him. I didn’t blame him for what happened to me, not really. “You need to drink this,” he said, holding a cup to my lips. I made a mess trying to drink it and he climbed onto the bed behind me. Pulling me into his arms, he cradled me against his chest and tipped my head back. “Try again,” he said softly. I managed a few swallows before coughing. It was too much too soon. “I can’t,” I whispered. “You have to. It’s the only way you’re going to get better.” I shook my head, but he forced more of the broth-like stuff down my throat. To my surprise, I finished the whole cup. When he set it aside, he wrapped his arms around me and held me close. The man in white quietly slipped away, leaving us alone. “You had me worried,” he admitted softly. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to.” I frowned. “Was I dreaming or did you yell at me for wearing your shirt?” He laughed. “No, you weren’t dreaming.” “I didn’t mean to make you angry.” “Why did you wear my clothing without permission?”
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I bit my lip, feeling uncertain for the first time since being with him. Should I admit the truth? His arms tightened around me and I yelped. “Answer me, Susan.” “It smelled like you,” I blurted out. He ran a hand through my hair. “You wore it because it smelled like me?” I nodded. “I… I was upset you weren’t here when I woke up, so I wanted something that reminded me of you.” Inwardly I winced at how pathetic I sounded. Since when had I become a needy, whiny woman? I’d always made fun of those weak women… and now it seemed I was becoming one. Sick for three days and I was a sap. Or maybe my feelings for Sylon were just different from anything I’d experienced before. That was a scary thought. “You know I won’t be here all the time. I have a wife and house I must tend to.” “I know.” And I did, but it didn’t mean I had to like it. I’d never done well with sharing, but I didn’t have a choice in the matter. I was the other woman. I had to remember that he’d had a wife when he’d claimed me. It infuriated me, but I had to hide my anger. I doubted Sylon would take it well if I threw a tantrum. I wanted to plead with him to stay with me, and at the same time, I wanted him to choose to stay with me. “You should drink some more,” he said softly. I shook my head. “I don’t think I can right now.” He sighed. “Then you need to at least go take a shower. It might make you feel better.” I would have loved one, but I wasn’t sure I could stand up. I still felt weak. “Sylon, I don’t think…” He growled at me, moving away from me and rolled me onto my stomach in the process. “I didn’t ask for your opinion.” I turned my head to the side so I could look up at him. “I…” He slapped my ass and had I not been ill, it would have turned me on. “Enough.” “But…”
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He lowered his head until his nose touched mine. “What part of don’t talk back did you miss?” “I wasn’t going to,” I snapped with what little energy I had. His jaw clenched and I knew I’d pissed him off. His orange eyes snapped with fire. “Do. Not. Raise. Your. Voice.” I sighed, feeling aggravated with the impossible man. “I don’t think I can stand up.” Some of the tension left him and he stared at me intently. “Was that what you were going to tell me?” I nodded, watching him warily. He cleared his throat and looked a little embarrassed. Standing, he picked me up and carried me to the bathroom. Making sure to keep an arm around me, he helped me undress before undressing himself, and helped me into the shower, standing beside me the whole time. “I don’t mean to be so much trouble,” I told him as he washed my hair. “If I had made sure you were taken care of, instead of relying on someone else to do it then you wouldn’t have been sick to begin with.” “It isn’t your fault.” He paused and looked down at me. “You don’t blame me?” “I already said I didn’t, and I meant it.” He nodded and kept washing me. I knew I was too weak to do anything, but the feel of his hands on my body made me want him. As his fingers slid between my legs to wash my pussy, I knew he could feel how hot and wet I was. When he looked into my eyes, I saw his desire and wished I could give in to it. “I want you,” he said as he thrust two fingers inside of me. “I want you too,” I groaned, “but I don’t think my body can handle it yet.” He sighed and removed his hand. He washed me quickly and then dried me off. Carrying me back to the bed, he slipped a slave garment on me and I frowned. “Now what?” he snapped. “It’s just… it’s a little itchy.”
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He rolled his eyes. “Susan, you’re a slave, you aren’t supposed to be comfortable.” “I know,” I mumbled and lay down. When he drew the covers over me, he shook his head in annoyance. “I’ll be back in two days to see how you fare.” I panicked. “Two days?” “Is there a problem with that?” he asked with narrowed eyes, and I knew I was treading on thin ice. I didn’t want him to leave. I’d seen he could be gentle and had hoped he would stay. “I don’t want to be alone,” I blurted out, saying the first thing that came to mind. “I’ll have my cousin stay with you. He can play nursemaid while I stay with my wife and visit the harems.” It hurt that he was going elsewhere for his pleasure, but I knew it couldn’t be helped. I’d heard in the holding cell that Vaaden men would become ill if they didn’t slake their lust, and if I was unable to perform that service for him, he would seek it where he could. Once I was back to my usual self, I could please him again. At least, I hoped I was going to get back to my usual self. This mushy, sappy side of me was going to drive me crazy. It just so wasn’t me! “Randar will be here within the hour. I just need to stop by his house and let him know.” “You don’t think he’ll say no?” “No.” I nodded and closed my eyes. A moment later, I heard the door close and knew he’d left me.
Chapter Three True to his word, Sylon must have spoken to his cousin, because a man similar in looks to my owner was standing over the bed when I woke up. “Hello, Susan,” he said in a husky voice. “You must be Randar.” He nodded. Eyes the golden color of a lion’s fur watched me intently. His hair was brown and shot through with blond highlights. His skin was lighter than Sylon’s, but his facial features were almost identical. I guessed him to be a few inches taller than my owner and around the same age. “I’m sorry to be a bother,” I said. I felt like all I had done was apologize. First to Sylon and now to Randar. “It’s no bother to spend time with a beautiful woman.” The way he said it sent chills down my spine. The good kind. Sylon had certainly never talked to me that way. I wasn’t even sure he saw me as beautiful. He treated me like property, which I was, but it was nice for a Vaaden warrior to view me as a woman first and a slave second. “Sylon said you’ve been ill,” he said as he sat on the edge of the bed.
“Yes. I hate feeling helpless.”
He smiled. “You seem like you’d be a fighter.”
“Normally.” I sighed. “But being sick seems to have scrambled my brains.”
“Why do you say that?”
“Because I feel weak and helpless… and whiny.”
“I’m sure my cousin took that well,” he replied dryly.
I nodded, heat flooding my cheeks as I remembered how angry he’d been. “He
was furious with me.” “For his own neglect?”
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“No, because I’m so needy right now. I couldn’t…” “Ah… say no more. Yes, my cousin is all about self-gratification. If he couldn’t fuck you, I’m sure he was angry and frustrated.” I inwardly winced at his choice of words, even though I knew them to be true. That’s all there was between me and Sylon, yet it sounded crude coming from Randar. Crude and cheap. I felt like a whore, which is close to what this planet had made me. I wanted to mean something to him, but I doubted that would ever happen. “Are you hungry?” he asked softly, his eyes understanding as if he’d read my mind. “A little.” “I’ll fix you something to eat. Just lie here and rest until it’s done.” I nodded and closed my eyes, feeling tired yet again. I’d never slept so much in my life.
*** I woke up what felt like hours later, but must have been only minutes. Randar walked in with a steaming bowl of something that looked like soup with some sort of crackers on the side. It smelled heavenly and my stomach growled. “Well, at least I know it won’t go to waste,” he said with a laugh. I was mortified, but accepted the bowl from him. Eating slowly, I managed to finish the whole thing. My stomach felt full and I wasn’t queasy, definitely a good sign. “Do you want something to read?” I scrunched up my nose. “I’m not much of a reader.” “I’m not sure how else you’ll pass the time.” I shrugged a shoulder, not sure either. I hadn’t really thought about what I would do when Sylon wasn’t around. It was going to be boring and lonely being his slave, two things I hated. “Perhaps I can teach you some Vaaden games of chance. Will you be okay if I go to my house to retrieve a few things?”
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I nodded and leaned back against my pillow. “I may feel helpless, but I’m sure I can manage being alone for a little while.” At least, as long as I knew he was coming back. He smiled and took the bowl from me. “I’ll put this in the kitchen and then I’ll go to my house. I’ll be back before you know it.” I smiled and closed my eyes, deciding another nap wouldn’t hurt. I’d heard that sleep was the best way to recover when you’ve been sick.
*** What felt like an hour later, Randar returned with a deck of cards and some sort of wooden tray with marbles. I wasn’t sure what they were used for, but learning something new sounded fun. “I thought we could start with the cards,” he said with a smile. “I’m glad you’re back.” “You really don’t like being alone, do you?” I shook my head. “It isn’t so much being alone, although it does make me nervous to be by myself for long periods of time while I’m so weak. Mostly I just hate being bored.” He frowned. “You realize that Sylon won’t be here much. Not unless he needs you.” “I know.” My eyes downcast, I folded my hands in my lap. He lifted my chin with a gentle touch and I saw compassion in his eyes. Before I knew what I was doing, I leaned forward and brushed my lips against his cheek. He looked surprised. “You shouldn’t have done that.” “I know. I’m sorry.” As a slave, I had to remember that there would be rules I would have to follow. I just didn’t know what they were. Apparently, kissing another man on the cheek, even if it was in gratitude, was against the rules. He shook his head. “It isn’t that, I didn’t mind. Hell, I want to do more than that, but Sylon would be furious.”
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I blanched, knowing he was telling the truth. I’d heard the anger in his voice over the way I was dressed, and I could only imagine what he would do if he knew I’d kissed his cousin, even if it was innocently. “I won’t tell him,” he assured me. “He’d be just as angry at me, if not more so.” I shook my head. “No, he’d be angrier with me. He’s already upset with me for wearing his shirt earlier.” Randar cocked his head to the side. “Why would that upset him? If you were mine, I’d find it an honor that you chose to wear something that belonged to me.” “He said I was a slave and should do as I was told, and wear the common slave garb.” Randar drew back the covers and his eyes became stormy as he saw the offensive garment I wore. “I’ll find you something better.” “No, you can’t!” “It will still be slave garb, just not something so rough. Your skin should only feel silky, soft material.” Pulling the covers over my body again, I covered my near nakedness. I felt awkward around Randar. He was an attractive man, but it was Sylon I wanted. While it was true that he was rough and domineering, I’d now seen a softer side to him as well. If I hadn’t known better, I would have said I was in love with the man, but that was ridiculous.
*** Later that night, I felt Randar slip into bed beside me. “I thought you said it was dangerous for Sylon to find us together.” “It is, but he wouldn’t expect anything less than for me to share the bed with you. As long as he doesn’t find us naked together, we should be fine.” Draping an arm over his waist, I snuggled into him, inhaling his scent. “Is this all right?” I wanted to feel safe, protected. “Susan, if we were together in any way other than sleeping, it would be the same as signing your death sentence.” “I’ve survived men like Sylon before. Besides, we’re not doing anything.”
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I felt him tense. “What do you mean?” “I didn’t have the best luck with men on my planet. I’ve been hurt more than once.” “By hurt, you don’t mean a broken heart do you?” “No. Although one or two did. After that, I stopped letting my heart get involved.” At least, until Sylon. “I’m sorry you went through that. Did you not have any pleasant experiences?” “No.” Randar leaned down and kissed me gently. It shocked me and I didn’t know what to do. I lay frozen, uncertain. As his lips moved against mine, I pushed against his chest. “Stop, please.” “I just want to show you that it can be pleasant between a man and woman.” “I appreciate that, but I belong to Sylon.” And he’s the only man I want. He sighed, but backed away. “Fine.” I curled up on my side of the bed. “Are you mad at me?” He reached out and smoothed a lock of my hair. “No, I’m not mad. I don’t understand you, but I’m not mad. I know you belong to Sylon, and I know we could get into trouble, but I want you.” “I want to be with Sylon.” He gave a humorless laugh. “You have to be joking. Why would you want to be with him? He’s cold and unfeeling.” Why indeed. That was the million-dollar question. “I don’t know. I just… I just do.” “Then I’ll honor your wishes. I won’t touch you.” “Thank you,” I said softly. I wanted to tell him I’d seen a softer side to Sylon. I knew that he could be a good man if he would only allow himself to be. The question, however, was did he want to be one? There was a difference in being dominant and being cruel. Was Sylon both, or just dominant?
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I wasn’t sure what exactly I saw in him, but I knew I wanted to be with him. I was convinced I could redeem him. Granted, he had a wife and didn’t seem to have the slightest inclination to feel anything for me. I could only hope that with time he would grow fond of me.
Chapter Four The next morning, I woke to find a silky blue slave dress lying across the foot of the bed. I knew without a doubt it was from Randar and the thought touched me, more than I wanted to admit. No one had done anything so nice for me before. I couldn’t remember the last time I’d received a gift. Slipping out of bed, I went to take a shower and change, except my legs gave out on me once I stepped under the warm spray. As I sat on the bottom of the shower, I wondered how I would get back up, and how I would make it back to the bed. If I asked him to help me dress, I knew we would end up doing much more. Not that I would mind, but I knew it was best if we didn’t. I couldn’t reach the soap and winced when I tried to stand again. Bracing myself against the wall, I managed to stand long enough to wash. After rinsing, I dried off and collapsed on the floor. I pulled the blue shift over my head and called for Randar. “Susan?”
“I’m in here,” I called from the bathroom.
“Are you okay? Why are you on the floor?” he asked, kneeling beside me.
“I was too weak to stand for long.”
“Why didn’t you call for me sooner?”
“I didn’t think it would be a good idea for you to help me shower. What if Sylon
had walked in?” He grimaced. “Good point.” Lifting me into his arms, he carried me into the bedroom. I could have stayed like that forever. The feel of his muscular body against mine made me want him again. I had a feeling I would never get enough of him, no matter how many times we made love. Whoa. Made love? Since when had I ever thought of sex in those terms? It was slightly frightening and I felt my heart pounding. Apparently, Randar did too.
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“Are you all right?” he asked. “I’m fine,” I answered with a smile. “Do you think I could sit in the living room for a little while? I’m tired of being in bed.” He returned my smile and stepped away from the bed. “Of course.” After he sat me down on the couch, he reached for the cards. He’d promised to teach me to play cards and I was looking forward to it. It would help break up the monotony of my day, and it would be fun. I hoped Sylon would let Randar visit me again after I was well. Despite the fact that Randar had tried to make love to me, I liked having him around. It was nice not to be alone all of the time, and I had a feeling I would be left on my own a lot. “When do you think Sylon will return?” “He’d told me it would be two days originally, but he stopped by while you were sleeping this morning and said he would be gone longer. I told him you were still weak.” He gave me a sad smile. “Thankfully I’d already gotten out of bed and dressed.” I sighed. “You miss him?” he asked. “I don’t know,” I answered truthfully. I preferred Randar’s company, but admitting as much didn’t seem like a good idea. And yet, I kept thinking of how Sylon had acted while I’d been sick, wishing to see that side of him again. “You either do or you don’t.” “I don’t know him well enough to miss him, but I feel like I should. I know I’m just his slave, but I wish I could be more. Does that make any sense?” I asked. He grinned. “Yeah, it actually does.” “I know he has a temper,” I said softly, remembering something he’d said before, hoping he would tell me I was wrong, even though I’d seen proof with my own eyes. But when he gave me a pitying look, I knew I was right. “If I could take you away from this, from Sylon, I would.” I gave him a half-hearted smile. “Do you think he’ll be angry with me when he returns?”
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“No. He seemed to understand he was to blame for your illness. He won’t take that out on you.” I nodded, feeling relieved. He’d seemed nice before he’d left me with Randar, but he was also unpredictable. I didn’t doubt that he could be volatile and I knew it wouldn’t take much to set him off.
*** A few hours later, Randar said he had to leave for an hour or two. I didn’t want him to leave, but I couldn’t exactly demand he stay with me. So I wouldn’t think about being alone, or being bored, I went to bed and closed my eyes. I wasn’t really tired, but there was nothing else for me to do. When I heard a door open, I thought he’d come back, but I was in for a pleasant surprise, or maybe unpleasant. It wasn’t Randar, it was Sylon. I smiled at him and opened my arms. He lay down beside me and pulled me close. “You act as if you missed me.” “I did.” Okay, so I hadn’t been sure before I really missed him or not, but seeing him made me realize I had. His eyes turned chilly, but his smile remained. “That’s not what I hear. I heard you enjoyed Randar’s company.” “He tried to keep me occupied while I waited on you to return.” I gave him what I hoped was an innocent look, hoping he didn’t know I’d spent the night in his cousin’s arms. “When he told me it would be longer than two days before I saw you again, I was disappointed.” “I told you my wife came first,” he growled. “I know.” I lowered my eyes. “I can’t help wishing I had you to myself.” He tipped my chin up. “That will never happen, Susan. You might as well put it out of your mind.” I nodded, hoping it had appeased him, although I hadn’t exactly lied. I did wish I didn’t have to share. I belonged to Sylon and had to do as he said. And if he said I wasn’t allowed to wish he could be with me, then that’s what I would try to do. I doubted I would be successful though.
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“Are you feeling better?” he asked, caressing my arm. “Much,” I answered before I kissed him. I felt him grin against my lips and he buried his hand in my hair. He kissed me until I felt out of breath and dizzy. Maybe he had missed me? It didn’t seem possible, but if he had, my life might be more pleasant than I had thought. Perhaps I could make him care for me, ensuring that I wouldn’t have to deal with his temper. His hand trailed down my arm and caressed my hip. He froze and lifted his head to glare down at me once more. “What are you wearing?” “A slave garment.” He shook his head. “I didn’t leave this for you.” “Randar brought it. He thought it would be better for me while I was recovering.” Watching his eyes spark with fury, I knew I’d said the wrong thing. It was hopeless. I’d angered him again, and would continue to do so. I had thought him different from my previous boyfriends, but now I was starting to wonder. He ripped the garment from my body and I nearly cried from the loss. I knew he would make me wear the rough one instead. “You aren’t allowed to wear anything I don’t give to you. Do you understand?” I nodded and scooted closer to him. I had to play the part of the good slave. Caressing his face and burying my hands in his hair, I gave him a tentative smile, hoping to calm him. He palmed my breasts and I knew I’d won, at least for the moment. If I could please him in bed, he might forget he was angry with me. His thumbs stroked my nipples and I arched into him, whimpering in pleasure. Bumping my hips against his, I hoped he would be finished soon. I wanted him to touch me, but I wanted him to be gentle. Randar’s words had stuck with me, but it wasn’t him that I wanted to show me kindness and pleasure. It was Sylon.
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He rolled my body beneath his and entered me with one long stroke. He didn’t seem to care if I enjoyed myself or not and took me rough and fast. At one time, that would have pleased me, but today I wanted more. I closed my eyes and wished I were anywhere but in his bed. “Look at me,” he demanded and I opened my eyes. He slowed, his strokes becoming gentler. Bracing his weight on his arms, he stared down at me, his gaze intense. Slowly, he lowered his head to mine and kissed me, his lips moving softly against mine. I pulled him closer, burying my hands in his hair, wanting more. Breaking the kiss, I lifted my hips, taking him further inside of me. “Sylon,” I whispered. With a frown on his face, he buried his face in my neck, nipping me. “There’s something you aren’t telling me.” “There is?” He thrust into me hard. “Don’t lie to me. I can sense a change in you.” His eyes narrowed and he withdrew from me. “You slept with Randar.” I stared at him in open-mouthed shock. How had he come to that conclusion? “You don’t have to look so surprised. You’re reacting to me differently than you did before.” Leaving the bed, he dressed quickly. “I won’t be back for a few weeks. We should know by then whether or not you’re pregnant.” “What?” He was leaving me alone? It wasn’t possible for me to be pregnant by Randar since nothing had happened between us. “Did you forget you and I were together?” “I can’t have children,” he stated calmly. “If you’re pregnant, it’s not by me.” I softened toward him a little. “I’m sorry, I didn’t know.” “Didn’t know you shouldn’t sleep with my cousin, or you didn’t know I couldn’t have children?” “I’m sorry you can’t have children.” He shrugged. “It’s for the best. I would make a horrible father.”
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I wasn’t sure I wanted to know the answer to my question, but I asked it anyway. “What happens if I’m not pregnant?” “Then I’ll make sure you never see Randar again and we’ll carry on as before.” I nodded. “You aren’t even going to ask about my supposed encounter with Randar?” I asked. He folded his arms. “All right. Why did you do it?” “First, nothing happened between us, but I don’t expect you to believe me. Second, I enjoyed his company because he was nice to me. He was… gentle and kind.” Sylon mumbled something under his breath before turning and walking away. I was a little disappointed and even more disappointed that I wouldn’t see Randar again, because there was absolutely no way I was pregnant. Although, that was probably for the best. Just as Sylon said he would have made a terrible father, I was certain I would make a horrible mother. My mother had given me up when I was a young teen. She’d left one day and just hadn’t returned. I’d thought she was coming back, until I found the eviction notice on our apartment door. After that, I had to face the facts. Mom was gone and she wasn’t going to return. I’d had to grow up fast that day. I’d only been fifteen at the time, but I’d had to make adult decisions. Avoiding the system, I’d lived on the streets until I turned seventeen. That’s when men really started to notice me, and my luck changed. At first I’d thought it had changed for the better, but after the first few boyfriends, I had changed my mind.
Chapter Five Living alone without a TV or anything to do was driving me crazy. It had been four days since Sylon left, and I felt like I was going to lose my mind. I paced the small living quarters, feeling anxious and nervous. If there had been even the slightest chance I was pregnant, I would have known in a few days. My menstrual cycle was predictable, always showing up to the exact day, which meant I had three days left of wondering, assuming the stress I’d been under hadn’t affected it. The front door opened and I froze, not knowing what to expect. When I saw it was Randar, I flew across the room and wrapped my arms around him. “I’m so glad to see you!” He hugged me before stepping back. “We need to talk.” Well, that didn’t bode well. Those words were always the kiss of death in a relationship, and while we didn’t exactly have one, I knew something bad was coming. “What is it?” He motioned toward a chair. “Why don’t you sit down?” I watched him warily as I sat. He knelt beside me and sighed. “Did you tell Sylon we’d been together?” “No. He assumed we had been.” “How could he possibly have assumed that, Susan?” I bit my lip. “He said I was different from before. I didn’t mean to be, but it was hard to find pleasure in his arms.” Randar groaned and rose to his feet. “We’re in a mess.” “If it were possible for me to be pregnant, I would have known in a few days.” “Why do you say that?” he asked quietly.
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“Sylon told me he can’t have children, and he’s the only once I’ve been intimate with since being here. The last man I was with on Earth was so long ago that there’s no way I’m pregnant from him either.” He knelt beside me again and caressed my cheek. “I missed you.”
“I missed you too, so much.”
“Sylon will be angry if he finds me here, but I don’t want to leave just yet.”
“Hold me?” I asked softly.
He kissed my cheek and lifted me into his arms. Carrying me to the bedroom, he
laid me down on the bed and lay down beside me. He wrapped his arms around me and pulled me close. As I snuggled against him, I closed my eyes. I felt at peace in his arms, and in that moment. I wished that I could have moments like this with Sylon. No, I craved moments like this. I wanted him to want me as much as I wanted him, but I didn’t want our relationship to be purely based on sex. Granted, I was his slave so there was little hope of that changing. What I wanted was for him to care for me. I wasn’t ready to say I was in love with the man, but I cared about him. He hadn’t given me a reason to, but I did. I knew he could be caring when he wanted to be. I just hadn’t figured out how to draw out that part of him. It appeared here and there, but I wanted that kind and caring man to stay. “Promise me you’ll be careful with Sylon.”
“Careful?” I asked.
“He could have beaten you.”
“I was actually surprised he didn’t,” I replied.
“He came to see me the day he left you here. He told me that he knew about us,
and that he thought you might be pregnant.” “There would be no way for him to know that,” I assured him. “And since he can’t have children, and nothing happened between you and me, it’s obvious I’m not.” “It’s too bad you aren’t pregnant.” “Why?” I asked.
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“I might have been able to claim you for myself if you had been.” He stroked my hair. “I’ve heard that the prime minister is kind toward slave women. If I pled my case before him, it’s possible he would have given you to me.” “If things were different, I think I would like that,” I told him. “He wouldn’t grant me permission without there being extenuating circumstances. If you aren’t pregnant, as you say, then I don’t have a prayer of getting you.” I lay quietly, not knowing what to say. After a while, my eyes closed and I fell asleep.
*** A growl woke me the next morning. The first thing I noticed was that Randar still held me, and still slept. Looking over my shoulder, I saw an infuriated Sylon. “Were you trying to make sure you were pregnant?” “No, we just slept, I swear. We never undressed, or even kissed.” I could tell he didn’t believe me and I cringed when he reached for me. He tore me from Randar’s embrace and dragged me out of the bed. Gripping my arm tightly, he shook me. “I leave for a few days and return early, hoping to give you a reprieve from your boredom, and find you in bed with my cousin. What am I supposed to think?” “I’m telling you the truth. Please believe me.” He pulled me close and stared into my eyes. After a moment, his gaze shifted to Randar, who was now wide awake. “Sylon, what are you doing here?” Randar asked. “Last time I checked, Susan was my slave and I could come here whenever I wanted. Unlike some people I might mention.” Randar stood and faced his cousin. “Nothing happened between us. I knew she would be out of her mind from boredom. I merely came to visit with her.” “It looked like more than visiting.” “I didn’t touch her other than to hold her,” Randar said calmly.
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I felt some of the tension ease from Sylon. It hurt that he took his cousin’s word, but wouldn’t believe me when I told him the same thing. “Why don’t you let her go?” Randar suggested in a quiet voice, trying to soothe his cousin’s anger. Sylon’s grip tightened until a sharp pain pierced my arm and I cried out in pain. He let go in surprise and I whimpered, holding my arm close to my body, knowing he’d fractured it. “Susan,” Randar cried, trying to reach me, but Sylon stopped him.
“Don’t come any closer!”
“How can you be so cruel to her?” Randar demanded. “She’s done nothing to
you!” “She’s done nothing for me, either.” I whimpered and Sylon looked at me with a frown. When he saw me favoring my arm, he stepped closer to me. He reached for me. At first I flinched, but when I realized he wasn’t going to hurt me, I relaxed. “Easy,” he soothed. “Let me look at it.” His grip was gentle, but the pain was still too much to bear and I cried out, making him freeze. His gaze sought mine and I stared back, blinking tears out of my eyes. His hand shifted so as not to touch the wounded area and he pulled me closer. Despite the fact he’d been the one to hurt me, I found myself leaning into him. “I think it’s broken,” he muttered. “I’ll have to call the physician.”
“Again?” I asked. “Please don’t.”
“Your arm will need to be set, or something,” Sylon said.
I shook my head. “I know how to take care of it, if you’ll just get the supplies for
me. Please, Sylon, I don’t like doctors.” “How is it you know what to do? Were you a healer on your planet?” I laughed; I couldn’t help it. Anyone thinking of me as a nurse or doctor was hilarious. “No, I wasn’t. But I do have experience with breaks.” He tugged me closer. “From setting other people’s?”
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“No, from setting my own. I was too poor to afford a doctor or hospital. Besides, they would have asked too many questions, and that would have been a bad thing.” Apparently I’d robbed him of speech. It seemed he hadn’t thought to hear that a man had abused me before. I wasn’t able to decipher the look on Sylon’s face, so I wasn’t sure if he cared one way or the other. He lifted me into his arms and strode out of the bedroom and to the front door. “I’m taking her to the hospital,” he said over his shoulder as he strode out of the slave quarters.
Chapter Six The doctor looked appalled as he studied the various X-rays he had taken. They didn’t call them X-rays on Vaaden, but they looked similar. I could see every old break I’d had. Four ribs, both arms, both legs, an ankle, a shoulder… I looked like I’d been to war -- and lost. “I’ve never seen anything like it,” the doctor said. “So many injuries, too many for a female.” “She was abused on her planet,” Sylon said. The doctor glowered at him. “And on ours it would appear. What were you thinking? A fracture! You know I have to report this.” “I know. I didn’t mean to hurt her. I was angry and didn’t think…” “You never think!” “Um… do you two know each other?” I asked, my head looking from one to the other like I was watching a tennis match. “He’s my father,” Sylon said with disdain. “You’d think at my age he would learn he can’t control me, but no… he still tries to treat me like I’m a child.” “Only when you act childish,” his father snapped. “Please don’t fight. Not over me, I’m not worth it,” I implored. Sylon looked at me in shock, as if surprised I would feel so worthless, and his father patted my good hand in comfort. I didn’t want to read anything into it, but did he perhaps care for me more than I realized? “Of course you are,” he said kindly. “Just because my son doesn’t know how to treat a woman isn’t your fault.” “I know how to treat a woman. They need to be disciplined at times.”
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“Women are nothing but possessions to you. I think you forget how frail they can be at times. They need more than just discipline, Sylon, they need care.” His father pointed to the door. “Out! Now!” Sylon grumbled, but did as he was bade, glancing over his shoulder at me one last time before disappearing through the door. I couldn’t be sure, but I thought there was a look of tenderness in his eyes as he left. “You didn’t have to send him away,” I said softly. “Yes, I did. He’s a barbarian and I’m thankful his mother isn’t around to see this.” I wasn’t sure if she had died or simply left, and my confusion must have shown on my face. He smiled kindly. “It’s been years since she passed, but I still miss her. Our son’s behavior would sicken her if she still lived. As it is, his choice of wife is… Well, let’s just say she leaves a lot to be desired.” “I guess that’s why he has me.” He nodded. “I’m sure it is. Knowing Sylon, it wouldn’t take much to get him to stay with you. His wife is a shrew and a controlling woman. He would love nothing more than to leave her, but marriage is forever here on Vaaden. I’m afraid it was arranged when they were born, but I had hoped he would pay her family and not go through with it.” “On my planet people marry and separate all the time. Hardly anyone stays together forever.” “That’s rather sad, don’t you think?” he asked. “I haven’t really thought about it, but I guess it is.” “Were you ever married?” he asked. “No. I’ve dated and lived with some of my boyfriends, but no one ever asked me to marry them.” I gestured toward the X-rays. “And if they had, I wouldn’t have accepted.”
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“Hmmm. I can’t blame you for that.” He gently grasped my injured arm. “This might hurt a little, but I’m going to heal you with a special laser we have. I might be able to heal some of your old injuries as well.” My arm was already killing me. How much more could it hurt? Sylon’s father took me to another room, passing his son along the way. Sylon gave me an apologetic look, but I lowered my head and followed his father down the hall. When we entered the room with the laser, he motioned to a chair in the corner. “Lie there and I’ll recline it. I’m going to use the laser on both of your arms. If it goes well, Sylon can bring you back and we’ll try to heal your ribs and legs.” I nodded and did as he ordered. Closing my eyes, I cried out at the searing pain I felt as the laser touched my arm. I had thought it would be painless compared to what I’d experienced previously, but I’d never felt pain like it before. Whimpering, I did my best to hold still. After he’d completed the operation on both arms, he rubbed ointment on the burns from the laser, and bandaged them. He led me back out to Sylon, who was pacing. At first, I thought he was just being impatient, but when he looked up at me, I was surprised to see concern in his eyes. “You didn’t tell me it was going to hurt her,” he said to his father. “You know women are fragile! I could hear her scream out here.” “I had to use the laser to correct the fracture, and I’m hoping it will also heal the old one in her other arm.” His father glowered at him. “Besides, I believe I was the one who told you that women were frail and needed to be cared for.” Sylon eyed my bandaged arms and I wondered what he was thinking. “She needs to keep them dry for the next twenty-four hours, but it’s going to take a week before the pain will be gone completely.” “Isn’t there something you can give her?” His father shook his head. “I’m afraid not.”
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Sylon glared at him and picked me up. I wanted to wrap my arms around him, but I couldn’t. Instead, I had both arms draped over my stomach, careful they didn’t touch anything else. “Expect to stand before the council within the week,” his father called after him. Sylon kept walking without looking back even once. When we were outside, I buried my face in his neck to block the intense light. I still wasn’t used to the double suns.
*** Once we were back at the slave quarters, he sat me down gently in the bedroom. Without a word, he went to the closet and pulled out one of his shirts. Turning, he walked toward me and reached for the hem of my slave dress. He lifted it over my head, careful not to hurt my arms. “I thought you didn’t want me to wear your clothes,” I said softly, not understanding why he’d changed his mind. “You’ll be more comfortable in this.” He helped me into the tunic-like shirt and walked over to the bed. Pulling down the covers, he motioned for me to lie down. “But I’m not tired,” I argued. Anger flashed in his eyes for a moment, but I watched as he fought to control it. “You should rest. Your arms will heal quicker if you get adequate sleep.” Which meant he didn’t believe Randar and I had really slept. He still believed I’d cheated on him. It didn’t seem that anything I said or did would change his mind. Sighing, I gave in and lay down in the bed. I was surprised when he gently pulled the covers over me. Even more astonishing, he kicked off his boots and climbed into bed beside me, draping an arm over my waist. “I’m sorry I hurt you,” he said. “I know it was an accident.” Not that anyone deserves to have their arm broken for any reason. But no matter what he put me through, I still wanted to be with him, still believed there was good in him. I only caught glimpses here and there, but I knew it was
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there, and I knew I could redeem him. All he needed was a little kindness. There was a difference in kindness and obedience. He didn’t know that yet, but he was learning. He studied me intensely. “Did you mean it when you said that you and Randar only slept last night?” “Yes.” “I find it hard to believe, knowing you did more than sleep the last time he was here.” “But we didn’t. You just assumed that we’d had sex.” “What else was I to think? You were acting strange after being around him.” “We talked. It made me realize that I wanted…” “Wanted what?” “That I wanted someone who would be gentle with me,” I answered softly. “Someone unlike me.” “I didn’t think you would ever be gentle with me.” “And now?” he asked. “I… I care for him.” He was silent for so long I became worried. I turned my head to look at him and the look in his eyes scared me. If I could have escaped from the bed, I would have, but his arm held me down. “I didn’t mean for it to happen,” I assured him. “It just did.” “And does he feel the same for you?” “I don’t know, but I think so. Or maybe I just hope he does.” He released me and rose from the bed. “You will never be together,” he said. “You’re mine.” “But you could get another slave. Why me?” “Why you, indeed,” he muttered, obviously not knowing the answer to the question himself. He turned to study me. “You’re beautiful, and before Randar ruined you, you were a good fuck.” I cringed at his words, although it thrilled me he thought I was beautiful. He moved toward the door and I panicked. “You aren’t leaving, are you?”
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“I’ll be back shortly.” I watched as he walked out of the slave quarters, unsure how I would fend for myself if he didn’t return soon. I could barely move my arms. Perhaps it hadn’t been wise to let the doctor heal both of them at the same time.
Chapter Seven Sylon returned within the hour and I breathed a sigh of relief. He looked tense and angry when he walked into the bedroom and I wondered what he’d been doing. “I went to see Randar and my wife,” he said, as if sensing what I was thinking. “About?” “I’ve forbidden Randar to see you.” My heart constricted. “And I told my wife I wouldn’t be home for a while.” “A while?” I asked. “I can’t leave you alone while you’re healing. And if I know my father, he’ll want to treat your other old injuries as well, which means it could be weeks before you’re able to take care of yourself.” “I don’t want to be a bother to you. He doesn’t have to fix them. I’ve made it this long with my bones just the way they are.” He sat on the edge of the bed and ran a hand through his hair. “Maybe I want you to go through the operations.” “Why?” I asked. He looked down at me, his brow furrowed in confusion. “I don’t know.” He stretched out beside me and brushed my hair away from my face, and caressed my cheek. “When I realized how badly I’d hurt you, it… I felt…” He sighed. “I can’t describe it. I’ve never felt that way before. I’ve never considered the feelings of slave women before, but with you, it’s different.” “You didn’t sound like I was any different when you were discussing me with Randar.” “I wanted to scare him, and you.” “You succeeded,” I muttered, remembering his cruel words.
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He placed his hand on my knee and slowly slid it up my leg to rest on my hip. Surely he wouldn’t expect anything from me, not while I was injured! “Sylon, I don’t think I can…” “Easy, Susan, I’m not asking you to do anything.”
He began unbuttoning the shirt, and spread it open to expose my breasts.
“This doesn’t feel like nothing,” I said softly.
“I’m going to do all of the work. You won’t hurt your arms.” He gently cupped
my breasts and leaned down to kiss me. His lips were firm, but tender, showing me a side of him I’d never seen before. When he lifted his head, I asked, “Is this how you are with your wife?” He glowered at me. “Don’t bring her up right now.” “I’m sorry.” He nuzzled my neck. “No, I’m not like this with her. I’ve never been like this with anyone before.” I lifted my chin, enjoying every moment of what he was doing. He had a slight growth of whiskers on his chin and they tickled my throat as he kissed the side of my neck. He trailed kisses across my collarbone and down between my breasts. “Have I told you that you’re beautiful?” he asked in a husky voice. “Only once, and I don’t think you meant to say it.”
“Your beauty is what drew me to you.”
“You mentioned as much earlier, but I wasn’t sure if I could believe you. You’ve
never… that is…” “Just tell me, Susan.” “You’ve never been this kind to me before, except for when I was sick, prior to you asking Randar to sit with me.” He stared at me a moment, as if weighing his words before speaking. He stroked my cheek and gently kissed me. I placed my hands on his cheeks, drawing him closer. When his shoulder bumped my arm, I cried out in pain and he pulled away. “I didn’t mean to hurt you, not now and not before.”
“You’ve already apologized for hurting me earlier.”
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“Well, I’m saying it again.” He swallowed hard, his Adam’s apple bobbing. “I’ve always used women for pleasure, Susan. I’ve never tried to care for one. Is that what you’re asking of me?” “I’m not asking anything of you.” “But it’s what you want,” he said softly. I nodded, unable to deny it. He sighed and rested his forehead against mine. “I can’t promise I can give you that. I’m not sure I’m capable of it, but I will promise to try.” “Really?” I asked in surprise. He kissed me again. “Really.” “Why… I mean, what made you change your mind?” “My father made some good points today. I didn’t treat you right. You deserve better. When you told me that you wanted to be with Randar because he treated you differently than anyone ever had, it made me realize that I was treating you the same as the men on Earth who had hurt you.” He caressed my cheek. “I don’t want to be like them. I don’t want you to fear me like you feared them.” “I really did miss you while you were gone,” I said softly. “I didn’t miss your anger, but once I saw the other side of you, the side you’re showing me now, I wanted you to stay.” “It’s not going to be easy, Susan. This isn’t a change I can make overnight, and I can’t promise I won’t still lose my temper. I only promise to try and treat you better.” “That’s all I can ask, Sylon.”
*** He stood and let his pants fall to the floor. After stepping out of them, he rejoined me on the bed. Settling between my legs, he kissed me again, tenderly. I wished I could take a more active role in the lovemaking, but I knew it was impossible with my arms aching as they did. His hands cupped my breasts as his cock slowly eased into my pussy. I was wet and ready for him, and lifted my hips to take in more of him. He withdrew and slowly sank into me again, making me whimper with need. “Sylon… I want…”
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“What do you want?” he asked.
“More, I want more.”
“I don’t want to hurt you.”
“You won’t,” I assured him, knowing he would be careful with me. I don’t know
how I knew, I just did. Bracing himself on his elbows, he thrust into me harder, but not as hard as usual. It was just enough to drive me crazy, enough to make me want him even more. Using long thrusts, he pushed me to the brink, and soon I was lost in the throes of an orgasm. A few more thrusts and he buried himself inside of me, finding his release. He withdrew from me and rolled to his back, pulling me to his side and wrapping an arm around me. “I’ve never experienced anything quite like that before,” he said, his voice full of wonder. I smiled. “See what happens when you slow down a little and enjoy life?” He chuckled and hugged me tightly. “It seems you’re going to be good for me.” “Funny, your father said the same thing.” “As much as I hate to admit it, there are times that he’s right.”
Chapter Eight When I woke the next morning, Sylon was still holding me. I used the time to study him. He looked so relaxed and peaceful in sleep, so different from how he usually looked. In that moment, he looked more like Randar than he ever had before. Oddly, I didn’t feel a twinge like I had before when I thought of the first man who’d treated me gently. I wasn’t sure what to make of that. I rested my head on Sylon’s shoulder and closed my eyes. I wasn’t sure how long he could maintain his temper, but I was going to enjoy this side of him while it lasted. It was nice to feel his arms around me, to feel loved. Loved? My eyes opened wide. Loved? Why had I thought that of all things? Sylon didn’t love me, had even said he didn’t think he was capable of caring for me, much less loving me. And I didn’t love him. Right? I felt him shift beside me and I tried to relax. If I lay tense in his arms, he would think something was wrong. Watching, I smiled as his eyes opened and looked at me sleepily. He really was adorable first thing in the morning. “Good morning,” I said softly. “Morning.” He released me and stretched. Rolling out of the bed, he went to the closet and took out a clean pair of pants. “I’m going to shower and dress.” He eyed my bandages. “You still have a few hours before you can get your arms wet.” “I’ll be fine waiting here.” He smiled and walked into the bathroom, and a moment later I heard the water start. I lifted his shirt from the floor and put it back on, covering my naked body. The morning air was cool and I shivered.
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The sound of the front door opening made me stiffen. When two official-looking men in uniforms walked in, I eyed them warily. I had a feeling the men were here because of the report Sylon’s father had filed. “Are you Susan?” one of them asked.
I nodded.
“Where’s Sylon?”
Before I could answer, Sylon walked out of the bathroom, dressed in a clean pair
of pants, a towel slung around his shoulders. “I’m right here,” he said, coming to stand by my side. “We’re here to take you and your slave before the council,” the second one said. Sylon ran his hands through my hair. “She gets her bandages off and will be allowed to shower in another few hours. Could it wait?” He looked down at me tenderly. “I know she’d feel better if she were clean when she went before the council.” “Are you sure you aren’t just trying to make her look whole?” the first official asked snidely. “I won’t deny what I did,” Sylon said. “But I also won’t do it again.” The second one snorted. “Like we’re going to believe that? This isn’t the first time you’ve been called before the council, Sylon, but I have a feeling it will be the last.” Sylon tensed, but didn’t dignify the remark with a response. He toyed with the ends of my hair and stared at the men. “I guess we’ll find out when I go before the council.” The two officials looked at one another and then looked down at me. “Do you wish to wait or do you want to see the council now, while your arms are still bandaged?” “I’d like to wait, if that’s okay?” They nodded. “We’ll be waiting outside of your living quarters. Once you’re ready, we’ll escort the two of you to the council.” Sylon watched as they turned and walked away. Once they were gone, he relaxed and sat on the bed beside me. “I’m sorry you’ll have to go through that. If I had controlled myself better…”
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“But you didn’t and we do have to go before the council.” I leaned into him. “It will be fine, Sylon.” “I’m not so sure. You aren’t the first slave I’ve harmed. I have a feeling the council officials are right. This time might be the last time.” “You mean they’ll punish you?” I asked. “They’ve punished me before, but this time they may lock me up and strip me of my holdings, my wife… everything.” “Me?” “Yes, even you,” he answered softly. I swallowed the knot in my throat. If that happened, I could only hope Randar would step forward and take care of me, but I knew there was no guarantee who would claim me. I didn’t want to go through all of this again. I’d finally gotten used to Sylon, had finally come to a point where I thought I could be happy, and now it was going to be jerked out from under me. Why did my life always have to suck?
*** After my shower, Sylon pulled out a bag from the closet. I hadn’t seen it before and looked at him quizzically. “I had this delivered while you were showering.” I gently took the bag from him and opened it, and gasped. Inside was a beautiful sapphire blue silk dress. It was still short, but longer than the slave garments I’d worn thus far, with short flowing sleeves. “Sylon, it’s beautiful.” He took it from me and gently slid it over my head. Pulling my hair back, he pulled something else out from the bag. He wound my hair into a loose knot at the nape of my neck and clipped something in it. I reached back and felt a hair clip. Walking into the bathroom, I turned my head sideways, hoping to get a good look at it. A golden clip, decorated with iridescent feathers similar to a peacock’s, was nestled in my hair. I’d never seen anything so beautiful before. With tears in my eyes, I turned to face Sylon.
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He frowned and moved closer to me. “I didn’t mean to make you cry.”
“They’re happy tears,” I said softly.
“Happy tears? I’ve never heard of such a thing.”
I wrapped my arms around him and hugged him. My arms still ached slightly,
but the pain was bearable. Rising up on tiptoe, I kissed him. “Thank you.” He smiled and hugged me back. “You’re welcome.” He grasped my hand and led me to the front door. When it whooshed open, the two officials turned to face us. One looked surprised at my attire, but the other didn’t show a flicker of emotion. With them leading the way, we made our way to the council.
Chapter Nine I felt nervous when we reached the citadel in the center of the city. I wasn’t sure how I would be received by the council, but having Sylon by my side gave me strength. I only hoped they didn’t take me away from him. Making our way through the winding hallways, we finally came to a set of golden double doors. They opened inward, soundlessly, and I sucked in a breath, startled by the countless number of people present in the large room. I hadn’t anticipated quite so many Vaadens to be present at the hearing. Sylon led me into the room and handed me off to his father, who waited patiently at the front of the room. A panel of men, whom I assumed were the council, sat behind a long paneled table, like judges. I shivered and shifted from foot to foot. This wasn’t at all what I’d anticipated, nor what I’d thought the council would look like. I recognized one of the men from the holding cell, but I wasn’t sure whether he had claimed Sorcha or Enid. He still seemed chilly, his violet eyes boring into me. “Take it easy, my dear. They won’t bite,” Sylon’s father said quietly. “What’s going to happen?” “They’ll ask you some questions, ask my son to answer, and then they will pass their judgment.” I bit my lip. “Will they take me away from him?” He looked at me in surprise. “You sound as if that would be a bad thing.” I looked up into his kind eyes and let him see what I’d kept hidden from everyone, including myself. Love. I’d gone and fallen in love with the impossible man. Sylon was far from perfect, but I loved him just the same. “Ah. I see I was right,” he said with a gentle smile. “You are good for my son, and perhaps he’s good for you as well.”
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“Please call an end to all of this,” I implored. “I can’t.” Before I could say anything more, the council called the room to order. Facing them, I took a deep, calming breath. “May I say something?” I asked clearly and loudly. I could see the shock on their faces, all but the one from the cell. He didn’t look surprised. If anything, he seemed amused. He waved his hand. “Go ahead.” “I know we’re here because of what happened to me.” I met each of their eyes. “But what happened was an accident. Sylon wouldn’t hurt me.” “And yet he did,” one of the councilmen said. “Not intentionally,” I responded. “It isn’t his first offense. What makes this time different?” I glanced at Sylon and saw that he watched me intently. I only hoped he wouldn’t argue with me. There was only one way to save him, only one way I knew of anyway. I faced the council again and lifted my chin. “Because he cares for me.” A murmur ran through the room, which escalated to a dull roar. The council calmed everyone once more and stared at me as if I were a strange specimen of insect. “Has he said as much to you?” one of them asked. I opened my mouth to respond, but I felt Sylon’s hand grasp mine. I looked up at him in surprise. In front of everyone, he gently cupped my cheek and kissed me. His thumb caressed my jaw as he pulled away. It was the first time I’d ever seen anything close to love in his eyes. “Yes, I’ve told her I care for her,” he said, his attention focused on the council again. “I would never intentionally hurt Susan. She means the world to me.” I nearly melted at his words, even if they weren’t entirely true. I could only hope that one day he would say I meant the world to him and mean it. Until then, I’d take what I could get. “Why is this one different?” the violet-eyed man asked.
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Sylon frowned. “I don’t know.”
The man smirked. “You love her, don’t you?”
Sylon opened his mouth and snapped it shut. “Of course not.”
A woman in the crowd stood. “This is an outrage!”
“Sela, sit down,” the councilman in the middle said.
“No, I won’t! How dare you put my family through this! And all because my
husband hurt his little slave. Who cares?” I sucked in a breath. The woman was tall and thin, her features pinched, platinum blonde hair pulled back in a tight bun. But her eyes were a striking icy blue. Sylon’s wife was prettier than I had thought she’d be, and very upset. “I demand that you end this trial immediately,” she said.
“Sela, I won’t tell you again. Sit. Down,” the man thundered.
She lifted her chin and refused to sit.
With a tilt of his head, the man sent guards after Sela, and they carted her out of
the room kicking and screaming. I tried really hard to hold back my laughter, but I snickered just the same. I’d never seen a grown woman throw a tantrum before, and it wasn’t something I was like to forget anytime soon. Sylon looked down at me, amused by my reaction. Apparently, he thought his wife was acting childish as well. “Now that the disruption is gone, we may continue,” said the man with the violet eyes. “If you do not love her, why should we leave her in your care?” asked the councilman in the middle. His clothing seemed superior to the others and I wondered if he was in charge. “Is it not enough that I care for her?” Sylon asked.
“No, it isn’t,” the councilman responded.
Sylon swallowed hard and looked down at me. I couldn’t read his expression
and it worried me. Now that I knew I loved him, the thought of parting from him pierced my heart. “I’m sorry, Susan,” he said softly.
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“What was that?” the councilman asked. He lifted his chin and stared at them defiantly. “I told her I was sorry.” “For what? Harming her?” “For whatever is to come.” The councilman studied him for a moment. “I’m recommending that you be remanded into the council’s custody while we discuss this matter further. During that time, your slave will be removed from the slave quarters.” I felt panic welling up inside of me and stiffened. Sylon’s father must have sensed my inner turmoil because he patted my hand in comfort. “May I ask a boon of the council?” he asked. The councilman nodded. “I would like to take Susan into my home until matters are resolved with my son. Does that meet with the council’s approval?” The men conferred with one another before nodding their consent. I sagged against the doctor in relief. “Thank you,” I whispered. “You’re the closest thing I have to a daughter,” he responded. “It would be an honor to care for you until my son is able to do so again.” “Daughter?” I asked in surprise. “But… you have a daughter-in-law.” He shook his head. “That cold, spoiled creature? I would never claim kinship to her.” I fought back a smile, but it disappeared quickly when I looked at Sylon. He looked resigned to his fate and looked at me sadly. It seemed as if he didn’t think he’d see me again. And maybe he wouldn’t, but I refused to admit defeat yet. There had to be a way to have the charges dropped.
Chapter Ten Early the next morning, I woke feeling sick. I barely made it into the bathroom before I was ill and I sagged against the wall. The stress of the trial was obviously getting to me. Other than feeling nauseated, I felt fine. “Susan, are you okay?” Sylon’s father asked through the door. “I’ll be fine. I just wasn’t feeling well when I woke up.” “Why don’t you come to my office when you’re ready? I’ll just check you over to make sure nothing is wrong.” “I’m fine, really,” I assured him. “Just the same, I think I’d better check. Sylon would be angry if you were sick and I didn’t do anything about it -- especially with me being a doctor.” I smiled at that. “All right. I’ll be there shortly.” Slowly rising to my feet, I waited a moment to make sure I wouldn’t be sick again. Once I was satisfied that I would be okay, I rinsed out my mouth. Looking in the mirror, I wasn’t surprised to see dark circles under my eyes. Sleeping hadn’t been easy without someone by my side. I’d gotten used to Sylon staying with me. I pushed away from the counter and walked out of the bathroom. In the bedroom, I opened the closet and flipped through the various slave garments inside. A long, rose-colored tunic at the back caught my eye. It wasn’t a Vaaden-style dress, but it wasn’t a typical slave dress either. Lifting it off the hanger, I held it reverently. I’d never seen anything so beautiful before. Pulling off the sapphire gown I’d fallen asleep in, I dropped it on the floor and pulled the rose-colored tunic over my head. It clasped on one shoulder and left the other side bare, cinching slightly at the waist. The dress reminded me of the old Roman togas and I smoothed the material, admiring it.
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I started to leave the bedroom, but I felt queasy. A moment later, I knew I was going to be sick and I ran to the bathroom, barely making it in time. When I was finished, I rested my head against the wall and took slow, shaky breaths. Rising to my feet, I rinsed my mouth once more and made my way to the doctor’s office. Maybe it was a good idea for him to see if anything was wrong with me. I’d obviously come down with a virus or something.
*** “Well, don’t you look pretty,” he said with a smile. “If only Sylon could you see in that dress.” “I hope you don’t mind. I found it in the closet.” He shook his head. “It’s perfectly fine. I haven’t kept a slave in a while. That particular dress belonged to Elana, my last slave.” He smiled sadly. “I loved her in a way, but she died from a nasty virus that swept through Vaaden two years ago.” “I’m sorry. If I had known it would bring back bad memories…” “Nonsense. It’s meant to be worn and it looks lovely on you.” I felt my cheeks flush. “Thank you.” “Now, sit in the chair over there,” he said with a nod toward a white chair across the room, “and we’ll do a quick bio scan. It should tell me what we’re dealing with.” I nodded and did as he bade. The scan was painless, merely a blue ray of light skimming over me from head to toe. A moment later, I heard a beeping noise and a machine spit out a piece of paper. Sylon’s father looked surprised but happy. What was going on? Why would someone be happy that I was sick? “What is it? Do I have the flu or something?” I asked. He shook his head. “I need to do one more test.” I fidgeted, but nodded. I watched with trepidation as he approached with a needle. “It’s just a simple blood test. One little prick and it will be over.” “I just realized that I don’t know what to call you. I always think of you as Sylon’s father, or the doctor,” I said.
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He chuckled. “My name is Dorne.” I nodded and took a deep breath, preparing myself for the prick of the needle. True to his word, it barely hurt and only lasted for a moment. Whatever test he was going to run, it didn’t require much blood. “I’ll have the results in just a moment,” he said with a smile. I sat, tense, waiting on whatever news he was going to give me. As long as he didn’t tell me I was dying, I could handle anything. Or so I thought. “Aha!” he exclaimed. “It’s just as I thought. You’re pregnant.” My eyes widened. “I’m what?” “You’re going to have a baby with Sylon.” “But… but… he said he couldn’t have children.” Dorne nodded. “And yet, it seems the two of you are going to have one just the same.” He smiled. “This may be the very thing we need to ensure you and Sylon stay together.” “He won’t be happy about this,” I said softly, standing. I began to pace the small area. “He said he can’t have children. He’ll automatically assume it’s Randar’s. He’ll never believe me!” Dorne placed a hand on my arm to stop my frantic back and forth motion. “He’ll believe me. And so will the council.” “What if you’re wrong? Couldn’t the machine have been wrong?” “No, it can’t. You’re going to be a mother, Susan.” I gulped and sank into the chair once more. A mother. I was going to be a mother. I’d never been more terrified in my life! “It will take a few days before the council will see us again, but I’ll get things in motion with them.” I nodded, unable to do much else at that point. I was still stunned that I was going to have a baby. It wasn’t something I had ever planned, and yet, knowing I carried Sylon’s child made me feel warm inside. “There’s breakfast in the kitchen if you’re hungry,” he said as he gathered some papers. “I’ll be back as soon as I can.”
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“Will you get to see Sylon?” He shook his head. “They’re keeping him elsewhere. I’m going to the prime minister’s house. He’s the head of the council. I’ll plead my case before him and then he’ll get in contact with the other council members. It may take up to a week before they reconvene to visit the matter again.” “I hate being away from him for so long,” I said softly.
“I know you do, dear. It won’t be long before you’re together again.”
I gave him a sad smile, not quite believing him. If the council wanted to, they
could remove me from Sylon’s care and give me to someone else. I had no idea what their reaction would be once they found out I was pregnant. Was that a good thing here, or a bad thing? Even worse -- what would happen when Sylon’s wife found out?
Chapter Eleven It was several days before we heard back from the council, several days of misery. Not only was I upset about Sylon, but I was still sick every morning. Dorne assured me it was perfectly normal, but I had my doubts. How could something as magical as carrying a baby be so horrible? I hadn’t felt this bad since I’d had the flu last year. “We’re going before the council in an hour,” Dorne said, startling me. “So soon? I don’t know if I can get ready in time.” He nodded. “It’s a good thing. It means my son might be able to come home as early as today.” Relief coursed through me. I’d be so happy to see Sylon, but I was also worried about his reaction to my news. I wore the pretty rose gown again and was as ready as I’d ever be. I waited patiently on the doctor and a moment later we were on our way. When we reached the citadel, I wasn’t as nervous as I had been previously. At least I knew what to expect this time. The councilmen were already seated and waiting for us when we stepped through the doors. There was still a large crowd, but it seemed smaller than before, which meant fewer people who would hear my news. I was still a little apprehensive about the council accepting my baby, or the Vaadens accepting it for that matter. Sylon walked into the room and I rushed to his side, throwing my arms around him. “I missed you,” I said, burrowing my face against him, breathing him in. He chuckled and wrapped his arms around me. “I missed you as well, Susan.” I tipped my face back to smile up at him, but froze when he frowned down at me.
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His thumb traced the dark smudges under my eyes. “What’s wrong?”
I shook my head. “I haven’t slept well since they took you away.”
“It’s more than that. You look pale.”
“I’ve just been worried,” I hedged. Obviously my news hadn’t reached his ears
yet. He watched me another moment, and I was concerned that he didn’t believe me. When he continued to frown at me, I knew I had reason to be apprehensive. I only hoped he wouldn’t lose his temper in front of the council. I returned to Dorne’s side and fidgeted.
“The council has reconvened at the request of Dorne, with news pertinent to his
son’s case.” The councilmen shuffled papers and stared at Sylon. “Do you know why you’ve been called here?” one of them asked Sylon. He shook his head. “Your father has provided new information. It has become imperative that we release you from our custody.” Sylon looked surprised, glancing our way. When his eyes met mine, he froze. “Why am I being released?” he asked the council without looking away from me. “Your slave is pregnant,” the violet-eyed man said. I watched as Sylon clenched and unclenched his fists. “I have documentation proving the baby belongs to my son. I ran a blood test a few days ago, confirming my suspicions,” Dorne said, handing a paper to his son. Sylon looked at the blood test results with an incredulous expression. “But I can’t have children.” “It seems that you can,” Dorne said softly. “You’re going to make me a grandfather after all.” “There’s the matter of my wife,” Sylon said in a steely voice. “Well… I’ll let the council tell you about your wife.” He turned his attention to the violet-eyed man. “What is he talking about, Bastian?”
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“Sela has become unwelcome on our planet. After her outburst in the citadel at your hearing, she went on to create several disturbances throughout the city, including an attack on the prime minister.” Bastian grinned. “Your wife has been banned from Vaaden, and your marriage is considered null and void.” Sylon looked stunned, but not as stunned as I was. My knees buckled and had Dorne not caught me, I would have sunk to the floor. Bastian glanced at me before speaking to Sylon again. “You’re free of Sela. While you cannot marry a slave, you may live with her where you will, especially since she carries your child.” “You’re saying she can live in my home?” Sylon asked in surprise. Bastian nodded. Sylon walked to my side and gently took my hand. “Are you all right?” I nodded and leaned against him, needing to feel his strength. “Please take me home, Sylon. I’m tired.” He lifted me into his arms and carried me out of the citadel. Later, when we were at his father’s home, he kissed me and held me. “I missed you so much,” he admitted. “I’ve never missed a woman before.” “I missed you too.” His hand gentle rubbed my stomach. “It’s hard to believe there’s a baby in there.” I tensed. “I’m not lying if that’s what you mean.” He hugged me. “No, that isn’t what I meant. It’s just that I’d never thought to be a father, never wanted to be one.” “And now?” He smiled against my hair. “Now I’m looking forward to raising a child with you.” “Can we go home now? Please?” I’d enjoyed my stay at Dorne’s but I was ready to be back in familiar surroundings. “My house will be redecorated, all traces of Sela removed from it, and then we’ll move there.”
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“I meant the slave quarters.” “You’d rather be there?” he asked in surprise. “It’s familiar to me.” He rubbed my arm. “We’ll stay there until the house is ready. I want to move you into my home as soon as possible.” “Why are you being so nice to me?” I asked. “Because… I had time to think about the things I’ve done and said, and I discovered something while I was separated from you.” “What?” “I… That is…” I looked up at him, trying to read his expression. “I love you,” he said softly. “I never thought to love a woman, but I discovered that I love you.” I smiled and kissed him. “I love you too.” “You do?” I nodded. “Very much.” His arms encircled my waist, his hands resting against my stomach. “I’ve never been happier than I am right this moment, Susan. You make me happy.” I leaned into him. “Not half as happy as you make me. I never thought a man could love me, or that I could love again, but I’ve found that loving you is easy. Probably the easiest thing I’ve ever done.” “Easy?” I smiled. “Well, I didn’t say that telling you, or predicting how you’d take it was easy. Just that loving you was easy.” He smiled and kissed the top of my head. He rubbed my stomach again. “So… this is all rather new to me. What do we do now?” I shrugged. “I’ve never been pregnant before, but a friend of mine was. She picked out a girl name and a boy name until she knew which she was having, and then she started buying clothes, baby furniture, blankets… tons of stuff.” “Names?”
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I nodded. “Personally, I’ve always liked Claire for a girl.”
“An Earth name?”
“I guess you’ll want the baby to have a Vaaden name.”
He shook his head. “No, I think an Earth name is perfect. You can name the baby
whatever you wish, just as long as you promise to never stop loving me.” I smiled. “That’s a promise I’ll gladly make.” Rising up on my tiptoes, I kissed him, winding my arms around his neck. “Take me to bed and love me,” I whispered against his lips. He smiled. “I thought you’d never ask.”
Jessica Coulter Smith Jessica Coulter Smith currently lives in Tennessee with her family and a house full of pets, after having lived in several places from the East Coast to the West Coast. When she isn’t writing, you can find her either curled up with a book or out shopping. She’s particularly fond of bookstores and Starbucks! Her writing career began in high school when she submitted My World is Tumbling Down to a poetry contest, not only receiving a publication offer, but also an award. Since then, she has published a half-dozen or more poems, six novels, and several short stories. At any given time, she has five or more works-in-progress at various stages of completion. Prior to writing, she worked for a counseling center; in information systems for a debt collector; and has worked at more than one college. After handling everything from patient evaluations to department accreditation, she decided to sit down at the computer again and attempt writing novels (from young adult to erotica). You
can
check
out
what
she’s
up
to
at
her
website
www.jessicacoultersmith.webs.com. She’s also on Facebook (when she has time to login). She loves to hear from her readers and you can get in touch with her using
[email protected].
