by Coralee June
Tallis’ hands froze on my shoulders. I felt him flex his muscles and tense up at my question. The hot air felt icy between us from his intensity. A low growl echoed in his chest before he leaned close and spoke in a steadfast voice that left no room for doubt.
“Then I’ll tear down the entire Empire to get you.”
I didn’t agree to go, not really. Tallis walked me to the Transport. My arm wrapped around his like he was escorting me to a dance. He opened the door of the Transport with a smile and eased me inside. After punching in the coordinates, he leaned in to kiss my cheek. His lips marked me. It was a sentimental goodbye in the simplest of gestures.
At that moment I promised myself that, one day, I’d wake in his arms and we’d enjoy a morning together. A lifetime together. I’d be worthy of his adoration, even if it killed me.
“I’ve reached out to a connection I have on the inside,” Tallis said. “I’ll message you once plans are solidified. I’ll also keep you updated on what Maverick says. He just sent a message that he’s willing to lift your sentence. You won’t have to work in the gardens anymore.” Tallis grinned as if this was good news, however, I froze in fear. Tallis knew. He knew my darkest sins.
“How long have you known?” I asked.
“Known what?”
“Known about my crime. My punishment.”
Tallis sighed and kissed my cheek again. “Since we took Gordon to the Clinic. Maverick told me. But I’ve never been one to put much stock in a person’s past, Jules. I love the person you are right here in this moment.”
My heart warmed at his words and I realized that Tallis had been honest with his intentions from the start. He liked me. Despite it all, he loved me.
“Even if he lifts my sentence, I’m not moving to your Scavenger camp, Tallis,” I said with a coy smile. I decided last night that I was moving in with him, but I liked to keep him guessing. “I want my life back.” I leaned forward and kissed him on the lips. “Well.…scratch that. There are a few new developments I’d like to add.”
“Like what?” Tallis asked.
“Like this pushy Scavenger Chief that wants me to run off and save the day when we could be doing something else.” I kissed his neck and bit his smoky skin.
He laughed and pulled me to him, holding me for a moment. His tight grip made me wonder if he was doubting himself. If he was going to change his mind and beg me to stay. I wondered if he would lock me in the safety of his arms and never let go. But he never did. He reluctantly let go with a half-smile and soft eyes. As he exited the Transport, my heart raced with fear and excitement.
“Come home to me, Agapimenos.”
When the door shut, I relaxed in my seat and eased my breathing. I looked out the window to him as I was carried off. He stood tall, his stormy gaze crashing into my resolve and fortifying it with his faith in me. My fingers sifted through the cushions, and once they connected with the cool metal of Cyler’s flask, I twisted off the cap and took two large gulps before slouching.
“Well, Walker,” I spoke to myself, my tired words filling the Transport. “Guess this means I'm coming for you, whether I fucking like it or not."
Acknowledgments
I would like to express my gratitude to the many people who saw me through this book; to all those who provided support, talked things over, read, wrote, offered comments, and assisted in the editing, proofreading and design. My editors, Jenifer Knox and Michelle Hoffman. Beta Readers, Ellen, Gabrielle, Rachal, and Luiza. My amazing PA, Madison, who keeps me sane and lets me talk about these characters at all hours of the night. Above all, I want to thank my husband, Josh, and the rest of my family who support and encourage me in spite of all the time this journey takes me away from them.
About the Author
CoraLee June has always been passionate about storytelling and impressed by the influence it has on people and the decisions they make in life. She loves engaging with the projects she works on, diving head first into developing real, raw, and relatable characters that are equally awed and beautiful. CoraLee lives in Dallas, Tx with her husband and two daughters. She's been known to frequently indulge in boxed red wine and day-old pizza. When she's not writing, June is off photographing the world or substitute teaching at the local middle school.
www.authorcoraleejune.com
