Chapter 19
Keep My Heart
Two days later, oncethe medical team decides it’s safe for Tilly to travel, I stow the last of the new medical gear into the cargo hold of the skirmisher and scoop KJ into my arms, buckling him into a seat.
“You ready to go home, bud?”
He lets out a high series of barks, then yelps and licks my chin.
I start the engines, creating a gravitational field to match that of Earth’s.
“All right. I’m going to grab Red and port her directly inside so she doesn’t have to experience any changes in pressure or gravity.”
He wags his tail and raises a paw.
I give him a high five.
Grandma sent every high-tech device she had that might help with possible labor complications, along with two bundles of clothes, toys, and every convenience new parents could need.
Appearing in the bedroom, I saunter toward the bed, where she packs several suits of her clothing.
“Hi,” I say as I wrap her in my arms.
She tips her face to me and grins. “Hi yourself, my king.”
I step back and bow low. “Milady, your chariot awaits.”
She lets loose a snicker and tries to curtsy, though the movement makes her wobble.
In a flash, I reach out and steady her, pulling her into my side. “Let’s go home, Red.”
“I’d like that very much, pretty boy.”
****
AS WE ENTER EARTH’Sorbit, the holoscreens crackle with an incoming message alert.
I patch them through.
Rhys appears onscreen with a huge smile. “Hallo kleines Kätzchen.” He cuts a sideways glance to me, as if checking for my reaction.
His greeting,‘Hello, little kitten’would’ve normally sent me into a rage, but not today. I’m just grateful he agreed to help. And what’s more, when I sent him a private communication, he didn’t even argue with what I requested. Like me, he only wants the best for the woman who wedged her way into both of our hearts.
Tilly leans forward and claps her hands in front of her chest. “General?”
Rhys nods. “Check your three o’clock.”
She swipes at a monitor, and a larger warship appears at our side, Henokan in design.
One of their flagships.
“What are you doing?” she asks.
“Helping a friend out.” His ice-blue eyes dart to me. “Harper and her crew have already set up a one-mile safety perimeter around your camp. And when you land, I’ve got a surprise waiting.”
“What is it?” Tilly’s voice rises with excitement.
He chuckles and gives her a half smile. “Ask your husband.” Rhys nods toward me. “He arranged it.”
