Claimed: Unchartered Territory

by Nia K. Foxx

  “Aye and with good reason. Although I must say I may be the only Chezarian present who doesn’t envy your union,” Galdar commented.

  “Oh?” Remar raised an inquisitive brow. “You think the new Leila is ill suited for me?”

  “Aye, I much prefer the sweet temperament of Chezarian women to the warrior woman you have joined with. I wonder if all women of her planet are so disagreeable.”

  “I’m certain like Chezarian females they vary like the seasons.”

  “Well my dear brother I believe you have bound yourself to the strongest of our winters.” Galdar commented,

  ***

  Dallas was led into the enormous great room she’d spent time in with Rabika earlier choosing decorations. Their selections transformed the cold marble interior into a festive tribute to elegance. Unfortunately, like with her dress, Dallas couldn’t muster enthusiasm over it.

  The crowd at the arena should have prepared her for the gathering of people collected in the great room. Of course everyone from the challenge wasn’t present but the sea of attendants was more than overwhelming. Flanked by two guards she was escorted down a wide blue and gold runner. She glanced up at the stone faces of each guard wondering if their sole purpose was to keep her from making a mad dash for it.

  “How exotic,” she heard several guests mumble. As spectacular as her outfit was she had a strong suspicion the comments were meant for her and not her clothing.

  Dallas spotted Remar instantly. Of course it would have been impossible to miss him perched atop the dais on a veritable throne at end of the runner. The seat to his right was occupied by another male only slightly smaller in stature. The one on his left was empty.

  My seat, she assumed. She wanted to keep her focus on the empty seat and off the deceptive seducer who doubled as a leader for these people. But wanting to do something and actually doing it were very different things. Who could blame her for being drawn to his physical appearance? Admittedly, he made for an impressive figure.

  His upper body was bare with the exception of a wide gold and sky blue sash which crossed his torso and the intricate tattoo he sported. He wore loose pantaloons that matched the blue in his sash and he traded in the ass stomping boots he wore on the battle field for gold sandals with thick straps. She understood why Rabika had encouraged her to select the gold material for herself. They synchronized perfectly.

  The announcer from the arena seemed to materialize out of nowhere just feet from the throne chairs.

  “May I present the High Commander, Remar and Leila Dal’las.”

  Dallas froze as she watched Remar descend the few stairs towards her. The light fluttering in her belly quickly threatened to turn into an all-out revolt at his approach.

  Only a foot away Remar extended his hand to her.

  Flushed by the reminder of the last time they touched she could only stare at his outstretched offering.

  She took a step towards him for a little more privacy.

  “I’m not sure how I’m supposed to address you,” Dallas started in hushed tones. “But you have to know this is a mistake. I didn’t come here looking for a husband… mate or whatever you call it. I got sucked into a wormhole and would very much like help getting back home.”

  “This is home for you Dal’las,” Remar spoke slowly and deliberately his tone matching her own hushed pattern.

  “And while I’m happy to accept a temporary invitation I would like to request repairs for my ship so I can return to my own planet.”

  If that were even possible, she added to herself.

  “I believe you know my answer to such a request. Now speak of it no more,” he offered her his hand once again.

  “Well I’m sorry but I must insist my point. I refuse to stay here and be a party to this farce,” she returned in a firm tone. Dallas could hear the beginning of murmurs bouncing through the gathering but didn’t care. Although no one could hear their exchange she was sure her body language spoke volumes.

  How could someone be this unreasonable?

  “I am warning you Leila.”

  “My name is Dallas of the planet Earth and you should remember that Chezarian as I haven’t the slightest desire in being your Leila.” Not quite sure where she would go Dallas turned on her heels and began back down the way she’d come. She knew the shock of her action would give her an advantage over Remar, but apparently he didn’t need one because no sooner had she gotten a few feet away her exit was blocked by her two escorts. She sized the men up hating being unarmed and dressed in the skimpy outfit. Without an option Dallas turned back towards the man who had usurped her life. She didn’t need to look at him to determine that he was seething over her latest display.

  With the exception of his arms crossed over the massive expanse of his chest Remar hadn’t moved.

  Head held high and shoulders squared Dallas marched back towards him refusing to show her defeat to the room of Chezarians, and especially not to him. She stopped a good foot away from his towering frame and for several seconds they stood, a silent battle ensuing before Remar extended his hand again. The room grew quiet as the crowd anticipated her response. Although her expression promised no concessions she placed her hand in his. The contact sent shivers through her making her legs go weak but she refused to let them buckle.

  Remar pulled her into his arms and before she could protest his mouth was on hers. With her hands trapped between their bodies the attempt she made to free herself was futile. Her lack luster effort died quickly and she gave in to the feel of his mouth moving over hers. The kiss was possessive, as if proving his dominion over her.

  “Enough,” he whispered against her lips after breaking their kiss. “Or I will have you here in front of the entire sector.”

  Dallas’s stomach knotted at his comment. He wasn’t serious. Right? Afraid he would make good on his threat she pulled away but only as far as he would allow.

  “I-I’m not the one who started it,” she said breathlessly trying to gain control of her racing heart. Dallas couldn’t believe she let him be so familiar in public. Ultimately, what choice did she have? The kiss was meant to demonstrate who was in control.

  “Do not worry Dal’las, we will continue this in our chamber later.”

  He secured her hand in his leading the way to the set of chairs while she tried not to think about the two of them being alone together.

  ***

  It took a while for the awkward moment to be forgotten but the hall soon boomed with so much activity it drowned her senses. There was live music, dancers, poets, singers and host of other artistic forms Dallas wasn’t quite sure how to label. In spite of the man at her side she found herself drawn to the entertainment.

  A semi-circle formed in front of the dais and a rhythmic clapping started amongst the crowd.

  “What’s this?” she didn’t realize she asked the question aloud until Remar responded.

  “We are being summoned to dance.”

  “Oh.” The idea of being in his arms again was enough to send her into panic mode. “I’d rather sit this one out?”

  But she knew her excuse fell on deaf ears as Remar rose taking her hand in his own. She debated the merits of resistance but in the end allowed him to take them into the center of spectators.

  “Just relax. I will do all the work,” he encouraged.

  With a flick of his wrist the musicians switched to a more melodic beat.

  “Your hands go here,” he said releasing her waist momentarily to position her hands on his shoulders. “This should be familiar to you. We adopted this style from your people.”

  His hands rested on her lower back as their bodies swayed in time with a slow ethereal ballad unlike anything she’d ever heard.

  “You smell like a samarian rose,” Remar commented gently. His voice vibrated in his chest and against her ear making her want to lean further into him.

  Although Dallas wasn’t quite sure what a samarian rose smelled like she could only assume he meant the
comment as a compliment. If he thought sweet talk would win her over he certainly had another think coming, but she chose not to inform him. At least, not at the present.

  Slowly the dance arena began to fill up around them but Dallas was all too focused on the feel of Remar’s hard body pressed against hers. There were points where their bare skin touched sending sparks of excited electricity with each contact. His movements were sensual and Dallas found herself falling victim to the seduction of being so close to him.

  What was she doing? She admonished herself as she tried to shake off the haze that began to envelope her.

  “Are your ceremonies always this festive?” she asked hoping conversation would distract her traitorous body.

  Remar paused before responding.

  “No, usually family and close friends participate in the ceremony. However, as the High Commander I have a duty to invite all of those in my sector. Unfortunately, many were turned away this evening. For those not present they are able to watch the events on their personal viewers.”

  “You mean this is being broadcasted?” She wasn’t sure why she found the knowledge so startling.

  “Of course. Your presence here has made this a more special occasion.”

  “Speaking of which-”

  Dallas felt him tense slightly.

  “Do not speak of leaving again, Dal’las. This is now your home and you will transition into our way of life easier the sooner you accept it.”

  “You know that’s a whole lot of hubris you’re sporting. To think I’ll just fall in line with this fictitious relationship. I didn’t agree to stay on this planet, nor to wed you. So no, I will not just accept this arrangement.” She stared up at him, defiantly, her hands now braced on his chest trying to force some distance between them.

  It was impossible.

  “Woman, will the remainder of my life be filled with your stubbornness?”

  “No. Because I don’t plan on being a part of the rest of your life. Even if I’m stuck on this planet forever it doesn’t mean that I want to be with you.”

  “Hmm, I remember you being far more welcoming two moon risings ago, perhaps we should go to our rooms sooner and see if we can recapture that moment.”

  Like hell.

  Unable to control her rising anger Dallas brought the heel of her foot down hard on his. The fact that he wore sandals was little consolation since her own feet were strapped in a soft thong as well. She was surprised when his hold on her loosened allowing her make her escape back towards their deserted seats.

  There was obviously no reasoning with a barbarian, she seethed.

  “Dal’las.” A winded Rabika appeared at her side.

  “I was wondering when you would turn up again,” Dallas tried to greet warmly but was all too aware of Remar following close behind them.

  “I’m sorry but I was needed elsewhere,” Rabika apologized stopping in front of her which effectively blocked her path. “Come. I think you should meet the rest of our illustrious family,” Rabika said with a wavering smile.

  “You will excuse me if I’m not quite up to that at the moment. In fact, I think I’m coming down with a headache from all the excitement.”

  “Please, it will not take too long.” The younger, but bigger woman left her little alternative when she grasped her hand. “I am sure my brother can part with you for a few moments?” Rabika said cheerily although Dallas noticed the concern reflected in her eyes.

  Obviously her lash out at Remar hadn’t gone unnoticed by some, and it was clear the young woman was worried. That gave Dallas pause. She remembered Rabika’s earlier mentioning of punishment for making negative reference to the sector leader and became immediately curious over the reprisal for unsanctioned physical harm.

  “Perhaps Dal’las should take some time to rest,” Remar said from behind her. Too close. He was angry, if his tone weren’t obvious enough she would have sworn she could feel the emotion radiating off him in waves.

  Good. He could join her in being upset.

  “I know it is not my place to say brother, but I think you are being horribly selfish with your bond mate.”

  “Do you now?” He asked slowly.

  Dallas wasn’t fooled by his smooth tone.

  “Aye, I do, and I plan to rectify this over sight post haste by introducing her to the rest of the clan.”

  Dallas thought Remar would argue but to her surprise he acquiesced to his sister.

  “You are quite right sweetling. I have the rest of our lives to be with my Dal’las.”

  Why did that sound like a threat, Dallas thought.

  “Come along Dal’las.” Rabika urged tugging on her hand once again. She was definitely tired of being manhandled by this giant race of aliens.

  “I do not think it wise to argue with one’s bond mate the day of your joining,” Rabika commented once they were out of Remar’s ear shot.

  “And under different circumstances I would agree with you, but you know as well as I do this wasn’t something I wanted.”

  “It is your destiny, sometimes things are not always as we would wish them to be but in the end they work out,” Rabika said softly as they came up on the first set of family members.

  ***

  “Brrr,” Galdar started at Remar’s return. “Ready to rethink your decision brother?”

  “I will hear nothing more from you on the subject,” Remar warned, his gaze following the movements of his new bond mate.

  He watched the gentle sway of her hips as she moved amongst members of his clan. A twinge of jealousy stabbed at him to see her smiling warmly at his kin. He longed for the day when she would look at him the same way.

  “You know you could join her as well,” Galdar said after a prolonged silence.

  Remar shook his head. “No. It is better if she is able to relax.”

  Galdar frowned. “And she cannot do this with you present?”

  “I understand it may take some time for her to… accept me.”

  “At the risk of being sent to the gallows I must comment that your bond mate seems less than enthusiastic about being claimed.”

  “It is a new world for her, she will come around.”

  He looked doubtful. “For your sake I hope she does brother.”

  ***

  Although Dallas knew she wouldn’t be allowed to remain in the security of Remar’s family all night she was still unprepared for Rabika’s gentle interruption letting her know it was time for her to join Remar in their room for a private meal. The long walk to her new rooms was made with Dallas listening to Rabika trying to interject levity in an otherwise uncomfortable situation. Her attempts fell short of their mark. At another time Dallas might have enjoyed hearing the anecdotes about her family’s exploits. But by the end of their journey she was relieved that Rabika seemed to finish her tales.

  The sound of the younger woman’s voice had competed with the loud pounding of her pulse. Now the heavy thumping was all that could be heard as they stood outside Remar’s private rooms. Dallas took a deep breath to ease the wild pace of her heart. It worked… somewhat.

  “Your body metrics have been programmed to give you access,” Rabika said. “Just wave your hand over the panel as with your old room,” she urged at Dallas immobility.

  Her unresponsiveness lasted for a few more moments before she gave in to the inevitable. The door folded on to itself in a quick whisper. At her side she could feel Rabika physically relax and wondered what the woman would have done if she decided to make a break for it. They’d traveled unescorted but Dallas knew there was nowhere for her to go.

  She stepped over the threshold feeling her circumstances close in around her.

  His chamber was larger than the one she previously occupied, and it was obvious someone had gone through great lengths to set the perfect mood. The lighting was low but didn’t hamper her ability to see inside. Flecks of light danced across the ceiling in a hypnotic distraction. Dallas gaze darted around nervously taking in he
r surroundings. It was all clean lines and angles. She could definitely see Remar finding comfort there. The outer walls were a series of connected windows giving perfect view to the darkened sky outside and twin moons in the distance. In the center of the room sat a low standing table adorned with a veritable buffet. Several large pillows, intended for sitting surrounded it in a fluffy confection. The rest of the room was sparsely decorated with several wall hangings, but her eyes were drawn to the huge bed that loomed ominously centered against a back wall beneath a large window.

  “You will sit here,” Rabika instructed.

  Great, Dallas thought, I can stare at that monstrosity of a bed from my assigned seat. Nope, no need to wonder about what was supposed to happen there.

  She remembered his touch and knew being with him in privacy wouldn’t be a good combination. One kiss and all her denials would go right out of those large windows.

  “I-I can’t go through with this,” Dallas voiced her fear.

  “You must.” Rabika poured an amber colored liquid into a cup that looked more like a giant chalice. “It is your destiny. Now drink this and try to relax.”

  Easy for her to say, Dallas thought as she drained the glass of the strange fruity liquid.

  “My brother is really not as bad as you think him to be,” Rabika said quietly.

  Dallas wasn’t reassured by her words.

  “Then what am I doing here, a man of honor would not force a woman into this.”

  “You are mistaken...” Rabika trailed off as the wide chamber door opened onto itself.

  Dallas knew without turning to look that it would be the last person she wanted to see. He was the only one that could make her heart race by being in the same room.

  “I will bid you a good eve.” Rabika said before flashing a weak smile and making a hasty retreat.

  Dallas stood in the center of the room for several seconds her back facing the door, debating the possibility Remar would have a change of heart. That thought was pushed out of her mind when she felt his large hands settle on her shoulders. She shivered as he turned her to face him gently.