“I would rather wait until we arrive on Destima,” I countered. “I feel completely fine, and Vowels has indicated that I have nothing to be concerned about.”
“Is this true?” LIU phased through the table to stand before me.
Vowels manifested in front of me in his updated appearance. His golden hooded cape was down, revealing his short hair and abyssal eyes.
“My host is completely healthy. My primary concern is the effect of her stress on her body and her mental stability. We should focus on those matters for the time being. If she wants her research team on Destima to scan her as a preventative measure, then I concur.”
Kaede glanced between my Oetsae and me. “I agree that she shouldn’t need an exam if she is healthy. I don’t believe we should stress her unnecessarily.”
“Why do you say that?” Zyxel interjected.
“Oh Stars,” Kaede hissed. “How do you think she got that scar? Once again, someone strapped her down on a medical table without her consent, and she almost died. A medical examination in an unfamiliar setting would only upset her.”
“Do you agree with this?” Zyxel addressed me, ignoring Kaede’s outburst.
“Yes,” I sighed, closing my eyes. I could already sense an argument brewing. It wouldn’t surprise me if Kaede threatened Zyxel, defending my wishes to the male who had declared me his fated. “Every time I lie on a medical table, terrible memories resurface, and I’m already struggling to keep it together.”
“Whether she agrees doesn’t matter,” Kaede growled. “This is my ship. If she doesn’t want to, then none of you have the authority to force her hand.”
“Kaede,” I whispered as I cupped his face, directing his eyes to mine. I needed to cool Kaede’s temper before he did anything reckless. Though I didn’t want Zyxel as a mate yet, I also didn’t want him thrown off the ship for trying to help. “Thank you for standing up for me, but I believe they understand.”
Chest heaving, he gazed at me with darkened eyes.
“I need to go.”
“What?” Tilting my head in confusion, I studied him. “Why?”
“I believe this conversation is over.” He leaned down and gave me a branding kiss before shooting a glare at those watching us. “I have work to do.”
“Are you sure?” I asked, touching my swollen lips.
“Positive.” His gaze softened as he gave me a squeeze and a peck on my forehead before releasing me from his embrace. “I will see you for dinner.”
“See you soon,” I muttered, still a little confused by his sudden change of attitude.
Suddenly, the two Oetsae disappeared. Kaede halted in front of the galley doors, shooting a glance over his shoulder. “Remember, Zyxel, Selena invited you as a guest on this ship. If I had it my way, none of you passengers would be here. Don’t make me regret allowing you to join this journey by harassing Selena. If I catch you doing anything to hurt her, I will personally toss you off my ship.”
