by Ciara Lake
“Zalora?” Anya looked puzzled. “What is that all about?”
Cora pointed after them. “You kissing him like that. Him telling you you’re beautiful. Certainly, he’s handsome, but to be so familiar with a man. What would your father say?” Cora put her hands on her hips.
“Well, at first Father wasn’t happy.” Zalora blew her hair out of her face.
“Your father knows?” Anya’s eyes widened.
“Yes, but now he’s okay. It’s a long story. I’ll tell you about it later.” Zalora walked over to a round table to sit down. “Val and I are mates. You know, Xihirians mate for life.” The other two sat down, too. “We’re as if married, at least to the Xihirian people. His people refer to me as Princess Braeden. He’s a prince of Xihirah. His father is Admoncor Kael Braeden. The other one was his uncle. Kade is the next Alpha Prime son, after Kael to Sovereign Kliven Braeden. Val is the first-born Alpha Prime son to Admoncor Kael Braeden, the reigning prince of Xihirah.”
“You’re mates?” Their mouths hung open.
“Yes, it’s as if married. You can close your mouths.” Zalora giggled. “It took a while for my father to understand and appreciate what being a mate meant. But now he does,” Zalora explained. “We’re going to have a celebration later. You two are invited to come to our celebration. You can come to Xihirah to stay if you like.” Zalora reached for their hands.
“Oh, how wonderful that would be. We can visit, but we can’t stay.” Cora shook her head. “We have to come back to help rebuild Tallusia. But it’s wonderful you’re married. You have to go be with your husband or mate. If I had a mate such as him, I would go with him, too.”
“Oh, I feel bad.” Zalora put her head in her hands. “I need to be in both places.”
“Listen, Zaza, you have a husband now, a powerful, handsome one. You’re blessed. You need to go be with him. Your father is our ruler. He will be here to help us rebuild. Plus, your relationship with Xihirah is helpful to Tallusia. See, I’m always thinking.”
“Cora, you’re always so wise.” Zalora smiled as she patted her hand.
“I know it comes from being four annums older than you.” She covered her mouth with her hand then laughed. “Your father and the rest of us will restore Tallusia. I’m sure you’ll visit a lot. He will ask your advice too. He always does. So you can influence him still.”
“I’ll try too. I just feel so torn.” She frowned.
“Don’t be. We’re hoping the Xihirians will stay around to offer their protection. With you as their princess, they’re more likely to give all the help we need. So you did good,” Cora teased. “We really need them.” Cora got up from her chair to hug Zalora. Anya nodded her agreement. “Just get them to send supplies and protection.” Cora sat back down. “Make your husband happy. It’ll help us.” Cora winked.
“That’s a great plan. You make their prince happy, and we’ll benefit.” Anya giggled.
“Sounds like a good plan to me.” Cora had a big smile on her face. She laid her hand on top of Zalora’s.
“I’ll do my best.”
“They’ve done a lot to help us so far. They chased off the Realmist. That alone was a wonderful thing. Those awful terrorists would have completely destroyed Tallusia if not for the Xihirians. We owe your husband’s world a lot. The least we can do is give them Zalora.” Anya looked at Cora, winking. “It doesn’t look like you’re suffering.”
“Stop it.” Zalora giggled.
“I’m only teasing. But he’s nice to look at. And so is his brother or whoever he is.” She waved her hand. “He’s really gorgeous, too.” Anya grinned, and her face reddened. She giggled into her hand.
“I know.” Zalora lightly smacked Anya’s other hand. “You think you’re funny.”
“I am.” Anya’s eyes were bright, full of mischief. “You had eyes for Val the moment he walked up to us in the city. I saw the way you looked at him, from head to toe. You can’t fool us. We’ve known you forever, Zaza.” Anya shook her finger at Zalora.
“Stop it, Anya.” Zalora buried her face in her hands, laughing. “I know he’s very handsome. He walked out of the dust like our savior. How could I not worship him? What else could I do?”
The time with her friends flew by. They shared with Zalora their parents and siblings were all well, at another camp together. Proudly, they showed her their lesson plans and school supplies, which were collected. Zalora promised to send more supplies as soon as possible. The three of them talked and giggled their time away. Halfway through their time, Zalora decided to make an announcement.
“I’m going to have a baby.” There was a silence, followed by a bunch of hoots and hollers. They both hugged her.
“Already?” Anya’s eyes widened more. “That’s fast.”
“Well, it didn’t take us long.” Zalora looked down at her hands. “I wasn’t planning to get pregnant, but these things happen.” Zalora felt hot. “I’m very happy.”
“I guess so.” Cora looked stunned, and her mouth hung open again. She continued to stare at Zalora. “We’re happy, too.” She shook her head. “I’m sorry it was just a shock to hear. I guess we have lots of plans to make.”
“I know.” Zalora nodded.
“I guess we’ll be coming to Xihirah in at least nine months or so. This is amazing.” For the last part of their visit, they talked about planning for the baby along with their upcoming visit to Xihirah. Their excitement was thick.
“I’m going to really miss our days at our school. I hope I can teach on Xihirah as Val’s wife. He’s a busy man, and I don’t know what the rules are in Xihirah. Plus I’m going to be a mother.” Zalora looked down. “I may not have time to teach for a while.”
“Yeah, being a mother can change your plans. But it’s all good.” Cora had tears in her eyes. “I’m really happy for you.”
“I’m nervous about meeting his family. They may think I’m odd. You know Tallusians are different.”
“Don’t be silly. We’re not too different. At least I don’t think so. The Xihirians are shifters. Can’t be too much more different than they are. ” Anya waved her hand. “Why would they think that anyway?” Anya frowned. “You’re completely normal.”
You’ll find out. I’m sure the news will spread like wildfire. I’m a scary freak. My secret’s out. You thought you knew me. You don’t. Zalora put her head in her hands.
“I mean you’re not odd at all, you know what I mean? You can sense people’s emotions. That’s really not too bad.” Zalora looked up at Anya. “You’re just our Zaza.” Anya grinned.
“And we love you,” Cora added.
“No matter what?”
“Of course.” Anya smiled.
“We’re going to miss you so much.” Cora put her hand on Zalora’s. “Isn’t it crazy how life can change in an instant? Not long ago we were running down the palace’s hallways playing hide and seek, and then we were off to college to be teachers.”
“And the next we knew our world was under attack.” Zalora frowned.
As the two hours came closer to an end, Zalora became more and more worn out. Even her vision blurred with sleepiness. “You look tired.” Cora sat closer to her, hugging her.
“It has been a long day.” Zalora smiled. You have no idea. None could match this day. Not even the day my city was bombed. Cora continued to talk, but Zalora did not catch what she was saying.
“You listening?” Anya touched her arm. “You look distracted.”
“Oh yes, I was just thinking, sorry.” What occurred on Terrian seems like a lifetime ago. Her friends continued to chat. Zalora never brought any of what took place up to her friends. She just wanted to have a good time. I wonder if you both will still love me when you know what I am. I’m a Tallusian witch. She watched them chatter on, not really hearing them anymore. Her head began to hurt.
“Zalora.” Val walked into their tent. His eyes met hers. Warmth spiraled through her as his gaze passed over her. He looked much more relaxed, younger, too. All of t
his had been a toll on him. “We’re going to leave in a bit. Your friends may come with us.” He looked to each of them. “You’re more than welcome.”
“No, they’re going to stay here.” Zalora smiled. “They have many plans. But, if it’s okay, I’ll stay in communication with them. We can visit, too.” Her tone was hopeful. “I’m gonna miss you two so much.” She reached over to them, initiating a group hug.
“Absolutely, we’ll be visiting a lot.” Val smiled. “I want my mate to be happy.”
“Is Xihirah going to continue to help us?” Cora stepped closer to Val.
“Of course, this is the planet of my mate and her family. I’ll do everything in my power to give this world what they need. My family will support that. I do know our people are going to stay here to help rebuild. We’re leaving medical crews, construction crews, and military. Also, more ships are being sent to replace us, to maintain protection. So don’t worry. We’re going to provide protection from the Realmist. They may come back if we don’t.”
“Oh that’s a relief your military will be staying, too. I was worried the Realmist would come back to finish us off as soon as you left.” Anya sighed as tears welled up in her eyes. “All of this has been very stressful. Zalora needs to be some place less stressful to have her baby.”
She does indeed.” Cora nodded. “We can’t wait to see your baby. I’m sure it’ll be beautiful, like his or her parents.”
“Thank you, Cora.” Val smiled. “Zalora is very beautiful.” His eyes shined as he looked at Zalora. “I’m sorry I have to take her now. My crew very much wants to get back to their ship to get comfortable. We’ve had an amazing adventure.” He pulled Zalora in her arms. “My sister and aunt are anxious to get home too.”
“It was nice you could visit with us. Sounds like you’ve both been really busy, a baby already. ” Cora hugged Zalora again.
“We’ll be orbiting the planet for at least two more days. We’re waiting for the replacement ship. Our family’s anxious to see my sister and aunt safely home. They also want to meet Zalora in person.” He grabbed Zalora’s hand. “If you want to come to visit, just let Zalora know when you speak. I’ll make arrangements, any time.” More tears erupted. Val stepped outside the tent to give them some private time. After a few moments with final good-byes, Zalora pushed back the flap of the tent and stepped into the cold wind. Her tears made her face freeze.
“I’m ready.” Val’s hand wiped away a tear. Taking her hand, they made their way back to their loaddisk. When she returned to the ship, she went to her seat, waiting for the ship to leave. Exhaustion took over. She shut her eyes before their ship took off. Falling into a deep sleep, she dreamed. Her dreams were often vivid, but this time they were as if real. She was in another world, a world of heat with ice as if underground. She was beneath the surface of a planet. Never had she had a dream so clear. She could feel the heat on her face. The dream kept her captivated. A beautiful woman with purple eyes and ebony hair appeared in her dream. She was sensuality in the flesh. Dressed all in black, as a soldier, she had a sword on her hip. It was if she was trying to tell Zalora something, warning her. She’d never seen this woman before, yet she was familiar. There was a kinship. Zalora began to perspire.
A noise woke Zalora. She came awake, startled. Her hair was damp against her head. Confusion hit her, having no recollection where she was or how she got there. First thing, Zalora realized she wasn’t on the loaddisk ship. She was in a bed, a familiar bed. The pillow had a unique scent. It smelled of Val. Lately she was paying more and more attention to scents. I must be changing into a Wolfton for sure. Quickly, she sat up, looking around. Maybe I’m wrong. I don’t remember anything. Panic set in, making her heart race. Her head hurt. Suddenly recognition eased her when she saw she was in Val’s suite. “How did I get here?”
“I carried you.” Val walked out of the cleaning chamber. His dark hair was wet from a shower. He was dressed in leisure pants. His bare, powerfully built chest glistened with droplets of water. “I took your uniform off then put you under the covers. Are you comfortable? Do you want a shower now?”
“My goodness, I slept through you carrying me in here then undressing me?” She was stunned. “What did everyone else think of me being so asleep?”
“Well, your father was worried, but the medtor assured us all you were fine. You know you expended a lot of energy.” Val walked closer to their bed. “You’ve had a long day, Zaza, my love.” He sat down on the edge of their bed.
“You like my nickname?” She rubbed his arm.
“Yes, Zaza’s cute and sexy all at once.” He leaned down, kissing her neck. “Anyway, the medtor said you’re pregnant, and newly mated to a Xihirian, so tired is just part of life for a while. Many changes are going on with your body physically and emotionally. Plus, you were a powerhouse on Terrian, which in itself is enough to have worn you out sooner.” He grinned. “But you’re a strong woman.”
“No kidding. The thing at Terrian wore me out a lot. It seems like a lifetime ago.” She rubbed her forehead. “Plus, Cora and Anya wore me out, too.” She smiled. “But I had a good time.”
“I know you did.” He gazed into her eyes. “I didn’t worry about your sleeping so hard from what the medtor told me. It seemed to be reasonable. So, don’t worry. You’re just overtaxed. You need to rest.” He rubbed her arm.
“I was dreaming. It was an odd dream. Now I can’t remember a thing. It seemed important though.” Zalora shrugged. “Oh well, it’ll come to me.” She lay back down, exhaling. “I could really sleep for days, I’m so tired.” She touched his arm. “What happened with Tomron really took a lot out of me.”
“No sex tonight?” He winked. “I thought you’d ride me?”
“You’re gonna have to do it while I’m sleeping.” Zalora opened her arms out as to say she surrendered.
“I’m just kidding.” Val laughed. “I’d rather you participate. It’s better that way for me.” He chuckled. “I want you to rest.” He kissed her lips. “You can ride me later as soon as you rest. I love you.” His tongue delved into her sweet mouth.
Chapter 11
One year later: Planet Xihirah
“Zalora, love, ride me. Oh, baby, I love it when you ride my cock. You are so talented.” He licked her nipple. She was wet and warm surrounding his greedy cock. His large hands caressed her soft bottom. “That’s right, Zalora. Move your hips, squeeze me, darling.” Val relaxed his shoulders back into the bedding. He watched her move against him. Their scents mixed, overwhelming his emotions, increasing his possessiveness. “Oh sweet Xian, you feel good.” Val’s hands were on her waist, helping her bounce against him. Zalora threw her head back as she straddled him.
“Val, oh, Val, it feels so good.”
“You’re beautiful, my mate.” Emotions surged through him. Her expressive face showed the intensity of her passion. She trembled under his touch. Her long hair touched his thighs, tickling him. “You’re gorgeous.” He gathered her hair up in his hand. Her eyes dazzled, as she smiled down at him. He gently pulled her to him as he pushed his hips up to meet hers. Running his hands up the front of her body to her breasts, he lovingly caressed every inch of her. “You’re lovelier every day.” Taking both full breasts in his hands, he lightly squeezed them. “You’re mine. I love to touch you. I love you.”
“Oh, Val, my breasts are so tender. They’re full of milk.” Zalora slapped at his hands away. Val gave her a wicked grin. He was persistent, placing his hands back on her breasts.
“They’re mine.” His slickened cock moved within her. It made sucking sounds as he plunged into her. Zalora stilled, looking down at him.
“Oh, love, don’t stop.” He pulled her head down to kiss her. Tightening her muscles around his cock, she gripped him inside her. She moved in slower strokes against him. Val nipped her lip. “That’s right. I like what you’re doing.”
“I love you, too.” She leaned into him, kissing down his neck to his shoulders as she rub
bed her hands over his chest. “You taste good.” She licked his nipple, and teased it with her teeth. “I’m going to lick you all over.” She gave him a sinful look. “You like that?”
“Zalora.” Val rolled her over, placing himself on top of her. His heavy body pressed her into their bedding. Rising up on his arms, he looked down at her. “I love it when you’re naughty.”
“I’m never naughty.” She giggled, stroking his arms. “I’m always good.” She smirked.
“No you’re not.” He moved his head from side to side. “You’re wonderfully bad with me.” Her curly hair was all around her head, creating a glorious crown. Touching her hair, he admired how perfect she was to him. Moving his hips against her in a sensual rhythm, she moved with him. She gripped his thighs, running her hands over his buttocks. Petite and delicate beneath him, but she never complained when he was aggressive. Wrapping her legs around him, she pulled him closer. Rising up to meet each of his thrust, she encouraged him. Sweat rolled down his back as he fucked her.
It was warm outside and between her thighs. It all made him feel wild, free. The jungle around them increased his wild feelings. Falling against her, he kissed her mouth, neck, and shoulders as he lost his seed. His body shivered with its release. Biting down into her soft shoulder, he held her in place as he filled her. He was wild. His beast was close to the surface, wanting to take control as he took his mate.
“Val.” Zalora tossed her head back and forth. She shivered against him as they both came together. Holding her, still connected, he rolled over again, with her on top again. Zalora pulled away from him, his cock still hard, wet from their juices. He groaned.
“It’s sensitive, Zaza.” He kissed her behind her ear.
“I know.” She sat up on her knees next to him. She took him into her mouth. Val gripped the bedding to control his reaction, keeping his beast from surging forward.
“Oh, Zalora.” He exhaled slowly as she took his thick cock into her mouth. Her warm mouth enclosed around his staff. She moved her tongue all over his sensitive flesh. He caressed her hair as her head moved up and down. Suddenly, it started to rain.
