Releasing his cock, I allowed myself to fall backward, nestling against his hard chest, the remnants of our passion still connecting us, I felt peace and satisfaction like never before. His other length remained deeply sheathed within me, connecting us in the most intimate way possible.
Lying there, surrounded by his warmth and strength, I smiled, my heart full. Unable to utter a word, one thought filled my mind, echoing back to him. “Yours.”
CHAPTERTHIRTY-FIVE
KY’RN
The intensity of our connection left an indelible mark on my soul.
The rush of her lifeforce still pulsed through me, intertwining with mine—a torrent of emotions, sensations, and connections that was as overwhelming as it was intoxicating. She was now an irrevocable part of me, and every instinct within me roared in satisfaction.
She was mine, truly and completely.
Only the grip of death could ever part us now.
However, with that newfound connection came an even greater sense of responsibility. She had given herself to me in the most intimate way possible, and I had taken, relished, and reveled in our union.
She was exhausted, her human frame more delicate than mine. This was not the time to indulge my desires. She needed rest, and I would ensure she got it.
With a gentle touch, I reached for the blanket draped over the portable cot and pulled it over her, cocooning her in its warmth. My own body, adapted to the aquatic environs of my home planet, naturally ran cooler. It might not offer her the warmth she required, but I would do everything in my power to ensure her comfort.
Drawing her closer, I wrapped my arms around her, holding her close, nestling her against me, protective and possessive. My blavs slowly deflated, sheathing themselves. It was an automatic response, my body understanding the need for rest and recuperation.
Guilt nibbled at the edges of my consciousness. I should have seen to her needs, ensured she was well fed before I tired her out. In the heat of our passion, the basic necessities had been forgotten. I would atone for it. Tomorrow, I vowed to feed her, care for her, cherish her.
The dawn of a new day was fast approaching, and with it, the promise of a fresh start.
Gently, I brushed back the stray strands of her hair, my fingers lingering over the mark on her shoulder. It sat just below the dormant living suit she wore, a testament to our bond—my claim to her. With tender care, I lapped at her skin, sealing our bond.
Soon, our shuttle would arrive, whisking us away from this place and towards new horizons. The thought of introducing her to my home planet, of building a life with her, brought warmth to my hearts.
A future where we would build a life together, away from all the pain Earth had brought us.
* * *
A soft, nearly imperceptible click jolted me from my slumber, pulling me into full alertness. My senses sharpened instantly, the primal need to protect my mate overriding everything else. An instinctual growl rumbled from deep within my chest, my eyes zeroing in on the entrance.
Isla stirred beside me, her eyes widening in fear. "Ky'rn?" she whispered, her voice quivering.
"Get behind me,"I commanded, positioning myself between her and the door. I could feel the tension in the air, thick and palpable."I'll protect you."
"What's happening?"she asked, clutching at the blanket.
"Someone's here,"I responded tersely, extending my talons in preparation for a potential threat. My senses were on high alert, every muscle coiled and ready to spring into action.
No one would harm my mate. No one.
The plasma door unsealed with a hiss, revealing two figures. They were Ixik’tryl, their feathers a vibrant crimson adorned with shimmering streaks of orange and gold.
The alarm in my chest abated slightly; these were familiar faces. They were Atlantis staff.
The female, carrying a medpack, stared up at us with exasperation evident in her gaze. "By the deep seas, Commander, you two are going to be late," she trilled, her voice carrying a note of amusement. "Why isn't she dressed? Why aren't you both ready?"
I blinked, momentarily stunned. The rush of adrenaline began to subside, and I sheathed my claws, slightly embarrassed. "It's okay, Isla," I murmured, pulling her closer for a brief moment. "Everything's fine. Please, get dressed."
Her eyes searched mine for a moment, perhaps seeking assurance, a hint of color gracing her cheeks, likely recalling the events from last night, before she nodded and began to dress.
I took a deep breath, letting the tension seep from my muscles.
