“I would also like to request passage on your vessel,” Zyxel announced.
I stilled in Kaede’s embrace. He must have noticed because he maneuvered my body away from the crimson male.
“Why do you want to board my ship?” Kaede hissed. “I’m already traveling with five extra passengers. What would you bring to this journey?
“I am one of the doctors in the base. I’ve been put in charge of Selena’s health while she’s here—”
“Are you implying I’m incapable of providing the medical services needed for our journey?” Kaede questioned. “Or perhaps there’s another reason why you want to come along?”
“Selena is my mate and I refuse to lose her, even if she doesn’t accept me yet.”
The lifedome fell silent as everyone stared at us, waiting for someone to make a move.
“Let’s get this straight,” Kaede hissed, holding me tighter against his side until his grip dug into my waist. “Selena is not yours.” He shot a glare at Ryzen. “Or his. So, if you want to come with us just to spend three weeks pawing at Selena, you’ve got another think coming. I will eject you before you can blink if you dare try to pressure her in any way. Do I make myself clear?”
“Doesn’t she have a say in this?” Zyxel challenged with a glare. “What if she decides that she wants me?”
“She won’t,” Kaede ground out. “Trust me.”
Rolling my eyes, I pressed a hand against Kaede’s chest and pushed him behind me. “I believe that’s enough.”
“It’s up to you whether he comes with us,” Kaede replied. “Another healer on Destima would be beneficial, especially if he’s planning to stay long term. It wouldn’t hurt if he helped in the infirmary while Xylo recovers. I’m sure they must be understaffed at the moment.”
“He can come,” I agreed, assured this was the right decision. Kaede was right; we couldn’t have too many healers on Destima, especially with a growing population. The more diverse the citizens, the more experience our staff needed. I just hoped he would leave me alone while we traveled.
“Then it’s settled.”
