The pull I had felt towards her since she first crossed my path was undeniable, magnetic.
Soon, we would be back in our private pod, hidden away from the world outside. And there, I would vanquish her doubts by giving her my mating mark, completely sealing her to me.
It wasn't just a physical act, but an emotional and spiritual one, too. It would be a declaration to the universe that Isla belonged with me, and I with her, binding us in ways words could never describe.
The thought of our union, the way she would sigh into my touch, the sensation of her skin against mine, how she would wrap her legs around me, pulling me closer—it was enough to drive me wild.
Each night, I’d longed for the intimacy, the unity of our souls, the feeling of her heartbeat against my chest, the taste of her on my lips as I fed from her, her soft moans echoing in the chamber as pleasure coursed through her. Her body would coil around mine, her legs wrapping around my waist, anchoring us to each other as we sought solace in our shared passion.
Hopefully tonight, we would finally be one, in every sense of the word.
CHAPTERTHIRTY-FOUR
ISLA
Surrounded by vast dark water, the iridescent glow from the Atlantean structures was otherworldly. It was like diving into a dreamscape colored with the vibrant hues of lit domes.
Atlantis was a jewel under the sea, its beauty unparalleled.
While I now understood the incredible tech that allowed me to be here—the living suit, the life support systems of Atlantis—I still felt like I didn’t belong. I felt like we had already left Earth.
Ky'rn was a solid presence beside me, watching over me.
As we swam, I could sense Ky'rn's efforts to accommodate my slower pace, but it wasn't long before began to struggle to keep up.
In a swift motion, Ky'rn pulled me to him. My heart raced as I felt the strength of his arms encircle me, lifting me up. Instinctively, I wrapped my legs around him, clinging to his sturdy frame like a starfish seeking refuge on a rock amidst a turbulent tide.
His touch, even through my protective living suit, sent shivers down my spine. His grip was firm but gentle, and the way he held me, so gently yet with such possessiveness, made my heart race.
My face was buried in the curve of his neck, feeling safe in his embrace. I felt every powerful surge of his body as he propelled us forward. His strong muscular body moved through the water with such grace and agility that it took my breath away. Every time he glanced down at me, there was a weight to his gaze, a depth of emotion that words would never convey.
Still, how I wished we could talk, share this experience in more than just silent gestures. I yearned to hear his thoughts, to know what he was thinking, to share in his emotions as we explored this underwater paradise.
As we moved, the majestic scenery of Atlantis unfurled before us—beautiful coral formations, schools of multi-colored fish that seemed to dance in synchronized harmony, and structures that glowed with an ethereal light.
It was all breathtaking.
The inhabitants of Atlantis were just as mesmerizing. The Makezu moved with grace and precision, their elegant forms sliding through the water effortlessly. Every nod Ky'rn received was a testament to his honorable rank. It was evident that he was revered and respected. Their gazes lingered on me with silent questions.
The Krukken were another story altogether. With elongated tentacles and sinuous movements, they looked regal, moving in a manner that was reminiscent of the way jellyfish or octopuses glided through the waters.
But as captivating as the surroundings and its inhabitants were, my thoughts inevitably drifted back to Ky'rn and the silence that weighed on me. The need to communicate, to share my thoughts and feelings with him, gnawed at me.
It was strange how I'd taken the simple act of speaking, of listening, for granted.
As Ky'rn continued to guide me through Atlantis, I realized that despite our inability to converse, our connection had deepened. Every touch, every shared glance spoke volumes. And as I nestled closer to him, I knew that no matter the barriers, we would be fine.
We had survived my grandfather. We could survive our future—together.
* * *
The moment I stepped into our private pod, the living suit that clung to me like a second skin began to dissolve, retreating into the choker around my neck. The unexpected transformation left me momentarily disoriented, standing bare in the pod’s entrance. The moss floor was surprisingly warm under my feet, its softness a stark contrast to the cold, harsh waters outside.
My eyes scanned our surroundings, and I quickly noticed several additions. Placed on a makeshift loft were items that promised comfort: soft pillows, a thick blanket, and atop them, neatly folded, were garments that appeared tailored for my form—a robe and a set of clothes. Nestled among the pillows was a wristband, its screen glowing faintly.
Adjacent to the loft was an intriguing piece of furniture resembling a shallow bathtub. Instead of water, it was filled with the same moss-like material that cushioned the floor.
Was it a bed, or did it serve some other purpose?
