They pulled back just enough to look at each other.
Then they kissed.
It was not a gentle kiss.
It was not a hesitant kiss.
It was a collision—of longing, of relief, of everything they had held back for too long. Her hands cupped his face. His arms tightened around her waist. The world spun, and he didn’t care.
When they finally broke apart, her eyes were wet.
“I’m so sorry I didn’t come sooner,” she whispered.
“I should have come for you,” he said, brushing his thumb across her cheek. “How did you get here? We’re still technically a closed planet until the base is built.”
She grinned, breathless. “My dad’s the new ambassador for Crytharia.”
Vaelor blinked. “Your… dad?”
She stepped out of his arms and waved the elderly man over. “Vaelor, this is my father, Martin Sinclair.”
Then she added, with a blush that made his chest tighten, “Daddy, this is my Vaelor.”
Her father extended a hand. Vaelor stared at it for a moment before remembering that humans greeted each other this way. He shook it carefully.
“It’s nice to meet you,” Martin said warmly.
“Sir,” Vaelor said, bowing his head slightly, “it is an honor to finally meet you. I owe you a life debt.”
Martin frowned. “A life debt?”
“If not for your wisdom and teachings to your daughter about survival skills, I would not be here today.”
Martin’s cheeks reddened. “I didn’t do much.”
Mara placed a hand on her father’s arm. “Daddy, you pretty much won the Games with your knowledge.”
The older man considered this, then smiled. “Well… I’m only too happy to share what I know.”
Anchora stepped forward, eyes bright with interest. “We would be honored if you would speak at some of our community gatherings while you are here.”
Martin bowed. “I would be happy to.”
The two of them walked off together, already discussing Crytharian hunting patterns and Earth cooking spices.
Leaving Mara and Vaelor alone.
Vaelor turned to her, his heart full, his voice soft. “I love you, Mara Sinclair.”
She stepped into his arms again. “I love you, Vaelor of the Frostbound Clan.”
He rested his forehead against hers. “I hope you are ready for a long stay.”
She smiled, eyes shining. “Does forever sound good?”
He kissed her again, slow and reverent. “That sounds perfect.”
Suddenly, the familiar crackle of static split the air.
