Chapter Fifteen

“So Earthtiques from that quarter are out.”

“Unless operatives were sent to Haven early on for long-term surveillance.”

Groteg’s brows rose. “I never figured the fanatics for the long game. They always struck me as impetuous. Overly eager to act.”

“I’ve seen subtle signs Mercy or New Bethlehem might have had spies watching us for a while. Their governments’ conversations with Haven’s Earther governor have occasionally let slip they’re aware of more than they should be.”

“Mercy is currently in chaos, thanks to the revolt and Dark Death. Those few refugees we took in prior to Haven shutting its doors to all but the most extreme emergencies…do you have any indication operatives slipped in?”

Dolgra shook his head. “It’s possible, but the Galactic Council…before the Darks took control…froze Mercy’s assets when its government tried to pull a financial scam on Joshada. The lack of funds for needed programs were part of what started the unrest. When the government tried to fake an attack by their detractors and the footage of Copeland’s alleged presence on Kalquor came to light, it all went to hell. Short story, Mercy doesn’t have the money to pay operatives unless they pull it from where it’s most desperately needed. Who can guess if they actually plan to pay the bounty once they get hold of Matara Charity?”

Groteg considered. “You can’t discount the fanatics. They’d do it simply because they’re determined to return to Earth’s old ways.”

“There is that. Which is why I’m considering the few Earthers who are as tall or muscled as our people as potential suspects. There are those whose physical regimens develop them to match our natural muscle.”

“True.” Groteg seized on the idea. “I can think of four men on the Earther side of Haven’s security force who’d qualify.”

“Give me the names, and I’ll investigate them.” When the Nobek gave him a funny look, Dolgra explained, “You shouldn’t be looking into this where Earther law enforcement is concerned. It could be seen as a conflict of interest. Your focus will be to investigate those outside of Haven security who match Matara Charity’s description of her assailant.”

“All right.” Groteg rubbed the back of his neck. “As for Charity’s fling with the young men…particularly the Dramok you brought in…”

“I doubt it’ll hurt to let her have some fun. You know Detodev personally. I’m fully informed of Ilid’s history.”

“Imdiko Mitag had to pass a thorough background check when he put on the event for the Earther governor. He’s so clean, he squeaks.”

“Despite his family’s history. It surprises me he’s so well-adjusted, considering his background. He sued for emancipation, you know.”

“I know, along with the reasons for it. He had more than his fair share of reasons to become an utter asshole, if not worse,” Groteg agreed. “No sign of trouble, however. We were impressed by his demeanor when he joined us for dinner.”

“If you’re okay with him being around her, it’s good enough for me.”

“I’m reassured where they’re all concerned, especially given your opinion of Ilid. Charity has less chance of being assaulted in the company of three strong men.”

Dolgra had to point out one factor. “Nobek Detodev’s pacifism won’t prevent him from defending her?”

Groteg snorted as they started to leave the barn. “Detodev’s biggest problem isn’t an unwillingness to fight. It’s how bad he feels after he’s been forced to do so and has committed the damage his opponents had coming to them. He lets guilt for the mistakes of his youth color every instance he engages in self-defense.”

“That’s a rough mindset for a Nobek.”

“He’s willing to watch out for Charity, which is a step in the right direction. His usual reaction to the danger would be to avoid it. Isn’t it a little early for cocktails, my Matara?”

Dolgra’s heart skipped a beat as they emerged in the sunshine and found Sara waiting for them. It sank to note she held the bottle of bohut he’d given her.

“I believe we mistakenly got someone else’s delivery. This is very expensive.” She smiled and offered it to Dolgra.

He drew himself up and smiled as innocently as he could manage. “No mistake. I have to bring you packages when I stop by to keep up appearances. I thought your clan might appreciate a treat rather than the usual container full of packing materials.”

Groteg peered at the label. His eyes widened in surprised appreciation. “Quite the treat.”

“It’s too much. I priced this vintage when I was researching presents for my clanmates last Christmas.”

Groteg beamed at her. “What a lovely thought, my Matara. I’m glad you didn’t, though. We’d have had to leave an entire field unplanted if you’d indulged us so handsomely.” He chuckled at the idea of such extravagance.

“Two fields, my Nobek.” Sara held the bottle to Dolgra. “Thank you for the generous gesture.”

“Please enjoy it,” he insisted, hoping his face wasn’t red. “As I said, it’s a thank you for taking Charity Nath on, especially in view of yesterday’s attack. It’s the least the Kalquorian fleet could do for you. They aren’t paying you enough for her lodging and safety, in my opinion.”

“But…” she looked to Groteg for help.

Dolgra backed toward his shuttle. “I’m running late on my deliveries. Save it to celebrate a good harvest, the end of the Darks, the end of Dark Death…whatever. I’ll check in later, Groteg, and let you know what I’ve found.”

He hurried to his shuttle before they could insist on him taking the bottle. It had been a stupid move to give such a gift. He’d had no business trying to charm Clan Amgar.

No Imdiko wants to live with someone so cold. I doubt a Nobek would either.

Truer words had never been spoken. He was better off alone.

Sara watched Dramok Dolgra’s shuttle take off, She turned her gaze to Groteg. “Being the head spy on a planet pays well if he can afford to hand out these as thank-yous.”

“I guess.”

They continued to gaze at each other for the space of several seconds. Sara could tell the wheels were turning in her Nobek’s mind just as they were in hers. Was it truly appreciation for them taking care of and guarding Charity? Dolgra hadn’t shown the least hint of anything but genuine gratefulness. Did the stunning and single Dramok’s gesture contain a hidden motive?

Her consternation Dolgra might be interested in them returned. Was the mysterious spy for Kalquor making a bid to court Clan Amgar, a family with three busy children, hectic regular jobs, and a farm that consumed their few spare hours?

When she thought of it in those terms…

Amusement lit Groteg’s face at the same instant Sara laughed. “Nah,” they chorused. Chuckling, they resumed their usual busy day.

* * * *

Charity had resolutely focused on chores and a university assignment during the morning. When Mitag commed her about joining him in town shortly following lunch, she felt justified in asking Sara and Groteg for the afternoon off. After some debate, they gave their permission. They added the stipulation Mitag would pick her up. She wasn’t to leave his sight while she was off the farm.

The Imdiko was more than happy to agree. In fact, he sounded a bit insulted anyone would question he’d do so. “As if I’d have you walk to town or beg a ride. Of course I’ll keep an eye on you. Do they honestly think a guy who owns a business as successful as mine could be so irresponsible?”

He was over his pique by the time he landed his craft on the Amgar lawn. He greeted Charity’s hosts cheerfully. “Jennifer and I will do dinner out, if it’s okay. When would you prefer I have her home?”

Charity managed to stop her eyes from rolling. She hated being treated as if she were a high school kid who had a curfew. It was because everyone was worried for her welfare, she reminded herself. She concentrated on appreciativeness for their concern.

Sara and Groteg merely asked she inform them of how late her plans would go and where she’d be as soon as she and Mitag had decided on their itinerary. Delighted to be regarded as a responsible adult, she hugged the surprised pair before dashing on board Mitag’s shuttle.

“Where are we off to?” she asked Mitag.

“Here and there. I haven’t made particular plans; I simply wanted to see you. I hope that’s okay.”

“Spontaneity is my middle name.”

“I have to stop by the town’s event hall for a minute to see how my crew’s doing. They’re setting up the reception decorations for the big party. Once I see they have it under control, I’m all yours,” Mitag grinned.

“Oh, is it the Western-buckaroos-in-tails wedding? I so have to see this.”

Minutes later, she was standing in the midst of a space that shouldn’t have looked as good as it did, given the description Mitag had shared. She blinked at the hay bales set in interesting patterns against the walls, an arch made of farm tools, and another of chicken wire. She gaped at white and silver tulle bunting fashioned in astonishingly complicated bows, which decorated the gleaming steel and bale squares. White roses cascaded artfully in resplendent glory.

“If there’s a section of heaven specifically for farmers and ranchers, this could be a fair representation. It’s actually elegant, Mitag. You managed to pull it off.” She couldn’t keep admiration from her tone.

He beamed. “Thanks. I’ll be glad when it’s done. I look forward to the bride no longer comming me to share yet another of her bright ideas.”

“Such as flannel? Livestock?”

His hand covered her mouth as he darted terrified glances around the room. “Hush! I don’t trust her to not be lurking, ready to spring on me.”

They were still laughing when Ilid stepped in the gleaming, gorgeous hall. “I was leaving the bakery and saw you two come in here.” He yawned sleepily and scanned the room. “Swanky setup. This isn’t the horror show you were describing, Mitag.”

“I don’t do horror shows. I’m talented that way,” the Imdiko asserted in a pompous tone.

“It should have been a monstrosity, but he made it beautiful, didn’t he?” Charity stood on her toes and pressed a kiss to Ilid’s cheek. His sleepy but good mood appeared to brighten at her welcome.

“I had no idea farm tools could work for a romantic setting. Or hay.” Ilid chuckled and nudged Mitag.

“Hay can make for decent bedding if you loosely pile it.” Charity offered a wicked leer.

“Are you talking from experience?” Mitag wasted no time jumping on the innuendo.

“Not yet. But I can tell you with some assurance, feedbags do in a pinch.”

“And you know this for a fact how?” Ilid demanded playfully.

“Ask Detodev.”

“Now it makes sense why she smells so strongly of our strong, silent Nobek,” Mitag told Ilid.

“I caught it, but I wasn’t going to say anything. I thought he had to get up early this morning?”

“It’s easy to get up when you’ve been up all night. In more ways than one.” Mitag’s sally earned Ilid’s laughter.

“What do you mean, you could smell him on me? I showered.” Charity thought they were making fun of her. Maybe disbelieving her.

“You smell strongly of soap, shampoo, and a little less powerfully of Detodev.” Ilid’s purple eyes twinkled. “The Kalquorian sense of smell is quite sensitive. You weren’t aware?”

“I’d heard but…you can actually tell we…?” Charity groaned. “That means Groteg and Utber must have smelled Detodev too. And Dramok Dolgra! The Kalquorian farmhands…prophets, are you saying if I sleep with a Kalquorian, every other Kalquorian around me can tell?”

A young Dramok assistant of Mitag’s walked past, carrying an armful of roses. “From at least three feet away, Matara,” he snickered.

Charity’s face burned as Mitag and Ilid roared laughter. She didn’t mind her intimate hijinks revealed to those she hoped to indulge in future intimate hijinks with…but half the damned colony would realize it too?

“How am I supposed to get away with anything on this ridiculous planet?”

* * * *

“The traitor’s daughter is roaming the main drag in the company of two Kalqs. She’s all but crawling on them, the little whore. She’s grabbing their arms, putting her cheek on their shoulders, letting them touch her.”

Wilkes frowned at his com, from which Scott O’Neal’s snarling voice emitted. He was glad his office door was closed at the Earther security headquarters. It kept his space soundproof against anyone listening in. Nonetheless, he instinctively lowered the unit’s volume. “You aren’t being obvious you’re watching her, right? No one’s close enough to hear you talking like this?”

“‘Course not.” O’Neal adopted a more cautious tone nonetheless. “Damn shame we have to hide our moral decency in public when sluts behave so disgusting. We should be able to string ‘em up on sight.”

Wilkes took a deep breath and hoped he hadn’t made a mistake hiring O’Neal to spy on Nath when she was in town. His fellow traditionalist wasn’t the sharpest tool in the shed, but he worked at the feed and seed store, much of which was open to the outdoors. Its central location in Sunrise’s main business thoroughfare offered an excellent view when it came to watching the townspeople. From his vantage point, O’Neal could see up and down the main street and not be obvious…as long as he wasn’t glowering at those he looked at.

“Just do as I asked and keep an eye on her. Don’t let anyone see you do so, okay? She’ll get what’s coming to her when we send her to New Bethlehem.”

Wilkes clicked off. Nath and a couple Kalquorians were apparently forging friendships, if not outright affairs. It made getting his hands on her a lot harder. He had no problem taking Kalqs out if he had no better choice, but it would raise a lot of questions for anyone to go missing or show up dead.

“Fuck me,” he sighed. His problems where Charity Nath was concerned kept mounting.

Chapter Twelve

The instant the door of the small but lovely one-story home opened that evening, Charity breezed in, not waiting for an invitation from the surprised Detodev. “We come bearing food. Where’s the dining room?”

“Uh…” The Nobek blinked at her, then Ilid and Mitag, who’d waited outside the door. Their arms were full of covered to-go trays from a local eatery, which served both Kalquorian and Earther fare. “What’s this?”

Ilid shrugged. His expression reflecting amusement, he nodded to Charity. “Ask her. I’m just a pack animal.”

“You’re far more, darling Dramok.” She stepped close to Detodev and wondered if he reeked of her as she apparently did of him. She wondered if the whole Amgar farm was gabbing about their night of fun. Or maybe she attached too great of importance to her tattered reputation. Perhaps nobody gave a damn. She brushed aside the embarrassing realization and smiled at the Nobek. “We need to clear the air. Stop tip-toeing around each other. No better way than over dinner.”

She could feel his walls going up though he didn’t twitch. His gaze remained fixed. Charity sighed and put her hand on his arm. “It takes too much energy for me to pretend to be who I’m not when it comes to my friends. You three make me feel safe. I’ll feel safer if I don’t have to play a part. Don’t you think it’ll be best for all concerned?”

He continued to regard her steadily. His head twitched the barest of nods. His gaze swung to the two men waiting for permission to enter. “Come in. The dining room is this way.”

Charity glanced at his home as she followed him from the entryway through a tiny but charming living room. He probably called it a greeting room like most Kalquorians, she amended. It appeared little used, as if waiting eternally for guests who never showed up.

He led her to a small dining room. She scanned her surroundings, curious how a solitary beast like Detodev lived. It turned out simply, but she noted the furnishings were comfortable and tasteful. His decorating was spare, but there were some small vid pictures on the sideboard along the wall. They were of an elder clan in expensive clothes posed formally. She saw another shot of them with three boys of various ages. It was easy to pick out a young but already grim-visaged Detodev. He was the spitting image of the man who was apparently his Nobek father, minus the jagged scar stamped from the elder man’s cheek to his jaw. Charity guessed Detodev had been about ten when the picture had been snapped.

The stills were of his family. No one smiled in the portraits, and she wondered how happy his childhood had been. It hadn’t sounded particularly joyous from the little he’d told her the night before.

Mitag’s organizing skills came to the fore once they were in the dining room with its unadorned but polished wood table and matching sideboard and china cabinet. An open window ushered in a lovely breeze, on which the scent of verdant growth wafted in.

The Imdiko set out the food in its trays buffet style on the table’s low surface. Detodev produced dishes and utensils. Mitag set the table so fast, Charity swore they were sitting on comfortable floor cushions to the meal less than a minute after they’d walked in.

“How about those true confessions?” Mitag asked.

“Food first. Naked souls look better when stomachs are full. We’ll save dessert for after the conversation, because sugar heals all hurts.” Charity felt she’d imparted great wisdom despite Detodev’s snort.

She enjoyed her meal and was relieved the Nobek’s appetite seemed undiminished despite her issuing a challenge he couldn’t find appealing. He spoke little, which was probably best given he shoveled impressive quantities of food in his face. Ilid had gone quiet too after a day of easy chatter. He seemed uncomfortable. Charity and Mitag carried the conversation, determinedly bright and cheerful.

Charity left just enough room for the slice of chocolate cheesecake she’d decided would be her reward for braving Detodev’s wrath at her house-crashing ruse. She set her empty plate aside and looked at the men in turn. They gazed back, giving her their full attention.

She dove in. “Dramok Ilid and Imdiko Mitag, my name is Charity Nath. This is my story.”

She told them everything. The original Earth’s leader Browning Copeland had escaped aboard a battlecruiser when Kalquorian invasion had been imminent at the end of the war. As one of his leading generals, her father Borey Nath had also been on board. He’d brought his daughters, Charity and her older sister Hope, barely getting off the planet in time. Nuclear blasts, set to trigger if Earth were invaded, detonated and destroyed major cities as they fled the planet. There’d been no opportunity for Faith Nath, Charity’s mother, to join them. She’d been away on business in one of the cities that had gone up in a mushroom cloud. In the end, the whole world had been rendered incapable of sustaining life.

“My father had been working for years to find a way to remove Copeland from power,” she told her gawking audience. “From what I’ve gathered, he and his accomplices were set to move against the Holy Leader within weeks. Maybe days. Then your fleet showed up, Armageddon hit, and we were stuck under Copeland’s thumb among his most loyal servants. Dad continued to play his role of dutiful general while starting from scratch on how to defeat Copeland.”

Charity described how she’d been forced to marry Browning Copeland at fifteen years of age, the latest in a long list of young wives. The wedding had been a farce, the Holy Leader merely declaring them man and wife as her protesting father was arrested. She recounted the harrowing tale of being rescued from rape by her sister and Clan Piras, followed by the Naths’ desperate flight from the ship. They’d taken Copeland prisoner as they escaped.

“Piras, his clan, and their spyship crew made it look as if we’d all died when Copeland’s battlecruiser was destroyed.”

“Then Copeland really is alive,” Ilid said. “Kalquor has him?”

“Under the supervision of my father, who insisted on the responsibility.” Charity grimaced and hurried to finish the tale. “I was given a false identity in order to live safely with my aunt and uncle in Galactic Council space. When the Darks invaded and took over, we escaped to Alpha Space Station. There, I was identified and outed by a Dark-ridden member of the GC. The Earthtiques on Mercy and New Bethlehem, probably in the governments’ highest offices, put a bounty on my head.”

“For what purpose? You were just a kid when it all went down.”

“They’re fanatics, Ilid. The Earthtiques in charge think if they can capture me and force me to admit Copeland’s still alive, they can turn back the clock and make Earthers live under his religious tyranny again.”

Mitag frowned. “The so-called faked footage of Copeland in a cell that went out a few weeks back—?”

Charity nodded. “It was real. We’re pretty sure the Darks were behind it.”

“If the Earthers are at each other’s throats and set against Kalquor, it’ll help the Darks get a foothold.” Ilid looked sick. “The old ruse of ‘divide and conquer.’”

“Exactly.”

“I’m sorry you’re caught in the middle of it.”

“I can’t believe you went through such an awful ordeal,” Mitag said. “You were only fifteen when Copeland decided to marry you? That’s disgusting!”

“Beware the holiest of holy rollers. In my experience, they’re usually the worst of the bunch.” She gazed at them. “There’s my tale in a nutshell. I’m trusting you guys by telling you the truth. Quid pro quo, gentlemen. Who’s next?”

Detodev had glowered fiercely through her story. “Isn’t one awful history enough? I hate how you were victimized by that sanctimonious bastard. I don’t want to hear if Ilid and Mitag had to deal with anything even half as bad.”

“You simply don’t want to share.” Mitag’s tone was gentle.

“Why should I? I’m in no danger the way she is. Why is this discussion necessary? It’s on the level of introducing ourselves to potential clanmates’ parents. I have no intention of joining a clan.”

Charity gazed at him, recognizing the angry outburst for what it was: a Nobek’s helplessness to defend those he cared for from past hurts. His own personal pain and fear of revealing it played a part as well.

Her hand covered his. For a wonder, he didn’t draw from her as she’d half-expected him to, though he continued to glare at her.

“If you’re near me, you need to understand the danger you could be in. As for why you should share your stories, I get the idea you’re open to being friends. Friends are honest. Forget clan stuff; if we can’t be ourselves when we’re together, then mere friendship is impossible.” Charity glanced around the table to include Ilid and Mitag. “I want us to be friends. Though I can’t wait to get off Planet Farm Hell, I’ll be up front on another matter: having indulged in one Kalquorian—” she grinned at Detodev “—the chance to enjoy sex with three guys at once is exciting. But only if we’re friends, which means you have to tell me who you are. You have to trust me as I’ve trusted you.”

* * * *

Scott O’Neal edged close to the open window. He’d followed the Nath woman and her Kalq friends to this home on the outskirts of Sunrise. Having lived on Haven among its Kalqs and Kalq-loving freaks for seven stomach-churning years, he was aware whom the pleasant house and its neat lawn belonged to: Nobek Detodev, a coward who avoided conflict as much as possible.

O’Neal was a few feet from the window when he heard a woman’s throaty laugh. On the heels of it came the comment, “Well, who wouldn’t want to win the triple crown of cocks? Or would it be more accurate to call it a six-pack, since you have two apiece?”

The ribald statement was greeted by low masculine laughter. Scott snarled to hear one answer, “If it weren’t for the table covering the evidence, you’d know I’m up to the challenge.”

More laughter, then quieter mutterings he couldn’t make out. O’Neal bared his teeth. Were the demons even now naked and reaching for the Jezebel? Had wicked debauchery begun in earnest? He crept closer, determined to see the wicked scene. He clutched his holstered blaster on his hip. It was illegal for him to possess it since he wasn’t a member of law enforcement or the military, but legalities on an immoral planet had never been high on his priorities. When surrounded by evil, a man had to take precautions.

Sometimes a man had to act righteously whether he was in danger or not.

O’Neal could finish the Kalqs while they concentrated on the whore. He could grab Nath and bring her to badly needed judgment from those who’d pay him well for her capture. Maybe he’d get Wilkes’ share too.

Wilkes sure as hell didn’t deserve the bounty. He was playing it too safe, trying to sneak the slut to New Bethlehem instead of simply grabbing her and making her confess to the Holy Leader’s whereabouts. O’Neal had a vision of himself leading the charge to rescue Browning Copeland, the hero of Old Earth who’d put things right again.

His hold on the blaster tightened. The house was isolated. Probably no one would hear the blaster go off. If they did, if they cared enough for a coward Nobek to investigate, O’Neal and the whore would be long gone.

He drew level with the window and peered in.

* * * *

Having used raunchy humor to relax her tense companions a touch, Charity returned to a serious state. Her voice low in gentle encouragement, she said, “Come on, guys. Time to ‘fess up.”

Detodev’s gaze lowered to his empty plate. He refused to speak. Ilid hunched. Sadness pulled at his features. He showed no sign he’d break the silence either.

“Have any of you ever heard of Clan Cyret? They were in the news, oh, it would have been about twenty-one years ago.” Mitag glanced at them in turn. His usually bright features were calm but tight.

Charity had the insight that whatever he referred to, he could have told them to the day exactly how long ago it had been. To the hour. She’d heard herself use the same offhand tone when discussing the moment she’d been told her mother hadn’t escaped. Despite Borey’s and Hope’s frantic coms as they’d boarded the ship taking them from Old Earth’s Armageddon, despite her father’s desperate attempts to have the military get her out of harm’s way, Faith hadn’t been able to leave Paris in time. The same darkness lurked beneath Mitag’s words.

Ilid’s brow creased. He shook his head in answer to the Imdiko’s question. “I’d have been barely a year old.”

“The name sounds vaguely familiar, but Cyret’s a common name. No. I don’t think so.” Detodev’s eyes rose to meet Mitag’s.

“During training camp, you and your fellow Nobeks might have had a class on how to handle a clanmate who goes off the deep end. It would probably be thanks to Clan Cyret.” Mitag’s studied calm never wavered, though a tremor entered his speech.

Detodev’s brows drew together. “It rings a bell. I do recall a few lessons on warning signs of clanmates’ stress and when to seek outside help. There were several case studies. Cyret may have been among them.”

“You’ll have to catch Charity and me up,” Ilid prompted when Mitag failed to continue. The Imdiko’s gaze had gone distant.

He drew a breath. “Dramok Cyret was a territorial councilman involved in a bribery scandal back in the day. He was facing a prison sentence and decided to kill himself. In his suicide note, he said his clanmates and child would suffer too much without him to guide them, so he planned to kill them first. I suppose he was the definition of a narcissist to think in such a way.”

Charity’s heart lurched. “Tell me you weren’t the child in this story.”

Mitag offered her a sad smile. “Unfortunately, I was.”

“How old were you?”

“Three.” Mitag swallowed. “Cyret took out my Nobek father first, since he was the clan member best equipped to stop him. He caught him from behind by surprise. Put a knife in his neck, severing his spinal cord. Then he cut his throat.”

“Fuck,” Ilid breathed.

“It was quick and quiet, based on the official reports. My Imdiko father was also caught by surprise, but he had the opportunity to fight. My mother and I were upstairs while my fathers struggled on the lower floor. The report said she must have thought she couldn’t get past Cyret to escape. She hid me in a drawer in a guest room, hoping to save me. After he overcame my Imdiko father, Cyret cornered and killed her in their sleeping room. When he couldn’t find me, he committed suicide.”

Detodev and Ilid stared at him. Charity guessed they were as thunderstruck as she was. Their sweet, bubbly Mitag had been exposed to an unthinkable horror.

“Do you…you don’t remember any of the actual killings, do you?” Ilid asked. “Please say you don’t.”

“I recall scattered pieces of that night. Mostly my mother whispering to stay quiet and not come out of the drawer, even if Cyret called for me. ‘It’s a game, and you lose if he finds you. Don’t fall for his tricks,’ she said. I thought it was a scary game. I didn’t want to play because she looked terrified.”

Charity grabbed his hand, wishing she could erase the horror on his expression. She clutched Detodev’s too, needing his strength. His return grip shook minutely.

“I remember feeling I was suffocating in my dark drawer while my mother screamed in the distance. Then the urge to come out when Cyret shouted my name and ordered me to. A Dramok’s command is hard to resist…but the image of my mother’s face and her desperate voice telling me to stay put…it somehow kept me where I was.”

“Thank the Mother of All. And your mother.” Charity wasn’t sure if the hoarse utter came from Ilid or Detodev. Her gaze was riveted on Mitag. He didn’t appear devastated or traumatized, but there was a heartbreaking vulnerability in his expression. It tore at her.

“There was a sound I couldn’t identify. I later learned it was the blaster Cyret used to kill himself. I guess he was too much a coward to use the knife. Or maybe he thought using a blaster on the rest of my parents would be heard and bring help too soon. But no one heard anything. Not the screams, not the shot…no one came.”

“How long were you in the drawer before you were found?” Charity’s spoke in a thready whisper.

“The silence afterward went on forever. I finally decided to disobey my mother and search for her. I also needed the bathroom terribly. I don’t know if I saw the bodies. I just remember blood. Lots of blood. Pools of it. My next memory is standing outside in the dark and crying. I don’t think I comprehended my family had been murdered, but I understood something was wrong.”

“You must have blocked some of it out,” Ilid noted. “Which is good.”

“My only other recollection of that night is of a stranger putting me in a bed in a place I didn’t recognize. It might have been a hospital. I think I was given an injection to make me sleep.”

“All this time. We’ve been acquainted for a year, but I never guessed you’d seen anything like…” Detodev’s rumble faded.

“Did your extended family take you in?” Charity blinked to keep tears from falling.

“A clan of uncles and an aunt. They already had children and…well, I guess I was a burden. News media was eager to run stories about the miracle boy who’d survived his infamous father’s murderous rampage. It went on for years and drove everyone around me crazy. My cousins hated the amount of attention I got, though I would have done anything to be out of the spotlight. They saw to it their friends disliked me too.”

“Oh, Mitag. On top of what you’d already suffered, their attitude was horrible.”

“The notoriety followed me when I became an adult. Prospective clanmates would research me, find out I was this monster’s son, and run for the hills. Would-be employers and clients wouldn’t hire me when I started event planning on Kalquor for the same reason.”

“Assholes,” Ilid muttered.

Mitag shrugged. “Haven was the chance for a new start, where no one knew who my family was. So here I am, and now you know…because I trust you three to accept me for who I am rather than the acts of my father.”

“Damn right we do,” Charity vowed.

He swallowed. “I’d do anything to have a family who cares about me. Even if it’s just a family of friends, though I won’t pretend I don’t wish for more.”

Charity lost her battle against the tears and wept openly. Ilid reached for Mitag and gripped his shoulder. “I’m sorry for all you suffered. I can’t believe people made your life such a struggle. Especially your own family. I mean, you were the victim!”

Mitag regarded him. “So were you. Despite the way I was treated, I’m still the caregiver my breed designation says I am. I haven’t questioned my role as an Imdiko. Your past won’t keep you from being an excellent clan leader, Dramok.” His attention went to Detodev. “You haven’t shared your history, but I’m familiar enough with you despite your efforts to keep me at a distance. You’re as Nobek as you can be.”

“My story is nothing like yours,” Detodev insisted, but his demeanor spoke of contemplation rather than dissent. “What happened to you happened to you. I bring my own shit on myself.”

“Let us help you not do so then.”

“After hearing the hell you went through? As if your pain is to be set aside for me? Are we really supposed to move on from your suffering so quickly?”

“I have. Sure, I have nightmares on occasion, but I’m in therapy. Have been for years, and it’s done me a world of good. I have excellent coping exercises.” Mitag offered a rueful chuckle. “Except for my admittedly obsessive search for the love I never had, I’ve put together a pretty great life. So yes, let’s move on.”

“I can’t dismiss your pain so easily.” Detodev scowled.

Mitag sighed, but his attention on the Nobek held warmth and compassion. “Listen to me, you big thug. I came from a house of death and another of rejection. I still give a shit about you. That’s how I know there’s no reason you can’t be the man you were meant to be. Ditto for Ilid.” He sat up straight. “Prove me wrong.”

“Fine,” Backed into the proverbial corner, Detodev answered the challenge. “How many pacifist Nobeks have you met?”

Mitag’s and Ilid’s brows rose in tandem. “You’re a pacifist?” Ilid’s tone was surprised.

Detodev didn’t answer right away. It was as if he waited for them to laugh at him. When they merely regarded him with bright interest, he huffed. “I try my best to be. I’ve hurt people when my temper’s gotten out of control. Really hurt them. Which shouldn’t be a surprise, since Nobeks find violence so damned easy. I don’t want to be this way, a thoughtless animal who snaps if someone looks at him wrong. I refuse to be the very thing I despise most.”

Charity wished she had a magic wand to wave over them all so their issues would be fixed. “There’s gratuitous violence, then there’s protectiveness, which is the trait of a true Nobek. You proved to me yesterday a true Nobek is who you are when you tried to catch my attacker.”

“A true Nobek? Don’t make me laugh. My father carries a scar on his face from when he had to stop me from hurting my mother.” Detodev waved at the closest portrait.

Ilid kept his tone steady and non-accusing. “I wondered where he’d gotten his mark of honor.”

“There was no honor in it. Just a spoiled brat throwing a tantrum.”

Mitag considered the portrait, which included Detodev and his siblings. “The scar looks years old in that picture, and you’re still a boy…maybe ten? Younger? You must have been really little when the incident happened.”

“What does it matter how old I was? I was enraged when my mother told me I couldn’t have a treat I wanted. A treat! Such aggression can’t be excused.”

“You told me you were four when it happened,” Charity reminded him. They’d shared a lot of themselves beyond sex in the barn. “It’s the age when little Nobeks usually start acting out, isn’t it, when the first sign of their breed category begins to show?”

“She’s right,” Ilid said. “I used to hear Nobek friends in the fleet talk about it when they compared stories about wrecked houses and injured parents.”

“My point,” Detodev growled. “Nobeks are primitive beasts from the word go.”

“I guess humans are too.” Charity chuckled. “Name the three-year-old who ran through her house screaming and pulling down curtains…and bit her mother no less than four times and drew blood? All because I couldn’t have a cookie half an hour before dinner.”

Detodev stared at her. “You bit her over a snack?”

“Same as you. You were no different from a gazillion kids, my friend. You’re positively banal in how typical you were.”

“My breed is known for its violence, though.”

“Particularly at certain stages of development, similar to the rest of us. Your early childhood temper tantrums, no matter how intense, aren’t exclusively a Nobek thing.” Charity smirked. “ All toddlers are malicious terrorists, the exception being my irritatingly perfect sister.”

“I recall my share of fits,” Ilid agreed. “Maybe Nobeks get a bad rap simply because they’re Nobeks.”

“Good point. I was beyond awful, especially where chocolate and sugar were concerned.” Charity eyed the cheesecake significantly. “I may have failed to outgrow it. I say we start in on dessert before we pry Ilid’s story from him, or I might indulge in my violent urges.”

She glanced at the Dramok and went cold at his expression of utter bloodcurdling terror. He gazed at Mitag.

No, not at him. Ilid stared at a point over the Imdiko’s shoulder.

Chapter Thirteen

Ilid had spotted movement at the corner of his eye and stared at the window beyond where Mitag sat.

A shadow outside betrayed its presence as it shifted position.

A Dark.

He jerked, a precursor to lunging for Charity, who stared at him. Detodev grabbed his leg under the table and gripped it tight. “Have you tasted chocolate cheesecake, Ilid?”

The Nobek’s gaze was intent. His head offered the slightest of shakes. He’d seen it too.

Detodev said he can’t see Darks. Something else occurred to Ilid. He’d looked directly at the shadow beyond the window and had seen its shape…the form of humanoid head and shoulders. Darks were only detectable in his peripheral vision. Their silhouettes were blobs with tentacles.

It’s a human or Kalquorian. He almost shouted in relief despite realizing they were being spied on…perhaps by the very person who’d attacked Charity.

“No, I haven’t had it. Have you?” He was shocked he could speak coherently.

“Never. Before I go on this journey of culinary discovery, I need to visit the restroom. Please excuse me.” Detodev stood and left the room.

Charity and Mitag stared at Ilid in confusion. They’d no doubt caught the stilted nature of the exchange and were startled by Detodev’s sudden exit. Fearing they would comment on it and spook the lurker, Ilid smiled brightly.

“As the prospective manager of a bakery, I’m eager to sample this dessert Charity’s drooling over. If it’s on par with our dinner, it’ll be wonderful. You chose amazing food tonight, Mitag. Do you use that particular restaurant for your events?”

“Uh, yeah. I do. It makes sense to do so, since they offer both Earther and Kalquorian fare.” Mitag glanced at the door Detodev had gone through. His brow creased as he tried to figure out the situation.

Ilid stretched his leg and tapped his toe against Mitag’s shin. “I assume you have your favorite go-to caterers?”

The Imdiko’s eyes widened as realization lit them. Ilid was thankful he’d caught the conversation was a ruse to cover Detodev’s absence. “Yeah. Yeah! Hey, you know what we should do? A tasting of your bakery’s offerings. Maybe I can swing some business your way.”

Charity’s eyes narrowed as she looked from one man to the other.

“I appreciate the kind offer,” Ilid enthused. “As soon as we have everything up and running properly, I’ll—”

Shouts came from the open window. The shadows beyond moved. Detodev’s face appeared, a snarl twisting his features. In that instant, he appeared as animalistic as he’d claimed his breed was. Someone else screamed as the Nobek ducked out of sight.

Ilid ignored Charity’s and Mitag’s shocked cries. He raced to help Detodev subdue whomever had been spying on them.

He shot from the door they’d entered through and rounded the home’s corner to find Detodev had taken an Earther male to the ground. The stringy man wearing a flannel shirt and jeans struggled vainly to escape the Nobek crouched over him and pinning him down.

“Get off me, Kalq!” The thin face was in a rictus of fear. He stared at Detodev, who showed his fangs.

His voice lost in a growl, Detodev kept his eyes on the prowler. “Ilid, he dropped a blaster when I knocked him down. Can you pick it up? Don’t get your fingerprints on it.”

Ilid caught sight of the pistol-shaped firearm, the design and size clearly made for typically smaller Earther hands. He yanked a leaf from a nearby plant big enough for him to fetch the weapon without touching it.

As he secured it, he shot a glance at Mitag, who stood in front of Charity in a defensive posture. The pair had raced to the scene behind him. The Imdiko was poised to fight though it was clear the spy wasn’t getting loose from Detodev. “Mitag, she’s safe. Detodev has this asshole secured. Com Nobek Groteg to come here as fast as possible.”

As the Imdiko obeyed, Charity approached Ilid. Her regard locked on the subdued man. “Are you here because of me? Are you stalking me on someone else’s behalf or your own?”

Ilid doubted the man would hear her, thanks to the terrifying sight of the Nobek who hung over him. However, rage filled the human’s expression. He glared at Charity. “Caught you being a filthy whore, didn’t I?”

Detodev’s furious bellow split the air. The spy promptly forgot Charity to gibber a desperate plea. The Nobek’s head started to dart down, as if he’d tear the Earther’s throat out. He checked himself and froze. He quaked, his gaze darting toward Ilid.

“Listen to me, asshole,” Ilid snarled at the human as he stood over the pair. “Keep your nasty mouth shut about her. Otherwise, I’ll tell this Nobek to shove his fist down your throat…then I’ll have a turn. You won’t have a tooth left in your ignorant head when we’re done. Understood?”

He didn’t care when the bastard sobbed an agreement. His command had been for Detodev, to give him an alternative to unleashing the fatal violence he hated so much…and to assure him some aggression was reasonable in this instance. The Nobek shot him a look of gratitude before resuming a baleful stare at his prisoner.

Groteg showed up at Detodev’s home several minutes ahead of a couple of his officers and the Earther side of Haven’s security. The Earther detachment included its department head Wright Connelly and his second, Martin Wilkes. Since the case involved humans as perpetrator and supposed intended victim, Connelly’s group would take custody of Scott O’Neal.

“Drunk and disorderly not enough for you, O’Neal?” the gray-haired and immensely competent Connelly said in his gruff voice after hearing witness testimony. Nearing retirement age didn’t hamper him from doing an impeccable job, in Groteg’s opinion. “Adding stalker to your rap sheet now, huh? Sounds like you’re an Earthtique to boot…which isn’t a crime, but Haven’s an awfully strange place to make your home if you don’t approve of Kalquorians and Earthers mixing. Makes me wonder what your plans here are, exactly.”

Safe from Detodev’s dangerous hands, O’Neal scowled rebelliously and refused to respond. The majority of his ire seemed to be aimed at Wilkes. The assistant chief stood by impassively, disapproval written on his harsh features.

“Get him outta here,” Connelly told the officers standing guard where Detodev had caught him.

“I can write him up for you, boss,” Wilkes offered.

“You do that. I’ll join you in a few minutes.”

The human law enforcement group, with the exception of Connelly, escorted O’Neal to their shuttle. Groteg could tell his human counterpart wanted a word, so they stepped off to speak privately.

“We’ll keep you in the loop, seeing it’s Detodev’s property O’Neal was trespassing on.”

“Thank you, Chief,” Groteg said.

Connelly eyed him, his faded blue scrutiny typically sharp. “Any idea why O’Neal would take offense to your ward seeing a potential clan? Considering how many mixed-species relationships we have here, it’s funny he’d single out the newest kid on the block.”

“It does seem strange,” Groteg admitted, his thoughts churning a mile a minute. “Almost obsessive in nature. She says she never met him before, but perhaps she forgot him approaching her when she was out having drinks.”

“She might have turned him down. A girl as pretty as her no doubt gets her share of attention, wanted and otherwise. If booze was involved, there’s a chance she wouldn’t remember one out of several flirting with her.”

“O’Neal doesn’t have a history of stalking young women, does he? On Haven or prior to coming here?”

“We never got a complaint I’m aware of. There’s the possibility he got in trouble elsewhere, but we do a thorough check of those who move in from Mercy and New Bethlehem. At least I do.” Connelly frowned. “He’s been here since before me.”

“Maybe your predecessor missed something.”

“I’ll give his entry documents another look, just to be sure.” Connelly called to the knot of those waiting to be released from interviews. “Terrific job catching him, Nobek Detodev.”

The Nobek dipped a nod, his gaze averted. Connelly bid Groteg goodnight and departed in his private craft.

Groteg assigned his officers patrol duty on Detodev’s property. O’Neal was far from the size of Charity’s previous assailant, judging from her description. It brought a spark of fury to realize there was more than one person involved in the attempts to kidnap her. How many ruthless bastards had the bounty set against her?

He tamped down his rage and joined the foursome of Charity, Detodev, Ilid, and Mitag. “I’d like to add my commendation to Chief Connelly’s, Nobek. You did well capturing and holding O’Neal until we got here.”

Detodev appeared unsure if he deserved the approval, but he accepted it. “Thank you. I’m glad to have helped.”

Groteg could have added his admiration that the younger man hadn’t ripped the bastard apart. It was probably what Detodev considered his greatest accomplishment in the affair. The elder Nobek doubted mentioning it would have been appreciated in front of Detodev’s peers. Better to treat it as perfectly natural, he decided.

Instead, he directed his next comment to Charity. “Do you need a ride to the farm?”

She grinned, as pert as if nothing of particular note had happened in the last hour. He marveled at her resilience, especially considering O’Neal’s stalking had come on the heels of the attack in the barn. “Thanks, but we haven’t had dessert yet. I refuse to let some weirdo peeping jerk deprive me of chocolate cheesecake.”

He chuckled, expressing his appreciation for her strength. “I’ve learned it’s a bad move to get between a human woman and chocolate anything. It’s a wonder you let O’Neal live.”

She laughed. “Sara taught you well.”

He glanced at the young men. “Detodev, my officers will stand guard until one of you brings her to the farm.” He paused. As offhandedly as he could, added, “They’re already working graveyard shift, so it doesn’t matter how late dessert goes.”

The trio of Detodev, Ilid, and Mitag couldn’t hold his gaze as they mumbled their thanks. On the other hand, Charity’s smirk was pure wickedness.

He thanked the ancestors as he headed for his shuttle there were three of them to entertain her. He had a feeling they needed all the help they could get where Charity Nath was concerned.

* * * *

Ilid’s anger and excitement at the threat O’Neal had posed ebbed as they trooped in Detodev’s home. In its wake came the memory of the shadow at the window.

He paused in the dining room’s doorway as the rest returned to the table and began cutting generous amounts of cheesecake. As usual, Charity and Mitag were full of chatter, praising the typically quiet Detodev for taking down the spy.

The Nobek’s demeanor was dark, however. At last, he broke into their compliments. “I could have killed him. It would have been easy. If Ilid hadn’t been there to talk me down, it might have gone badly.” He glanced at the Dramok. “I owe you thanks for helping me.”

“You were fine.” Ilid noted the hoarseness in his voice. “You stopped yourself before I said a word. I watched you do it.”

“You see?” Mitag insisted to the uncertain Nobek. “You aren’t the uncontrollable child any longer, Detodev. You’re a man in full command of his actions.”

“What I wanted to do though—”

“Hey, I was ready to cut his balls off,” Charity said. “I almost asked you to hold him there so I could. We aren’t our urges, big man. Mastering ourselves is what counts. You did so.”

He was quiet as he considered. In the end, he seemed to take strength from her insistence. “Maybe. I still feel I owe you gratitude, Ilid. You cut through my anger and gave me a chance to think before I did anything.”

“As a good Dramok does,” Mitag said.

“A good Dramok?” Ilid shook his head. He brought his hands from behind his back to show them how violently they shook. “Does this look like the reaction of a real leader to you?”

“Ilid.” Charity hurried from the table and flung her arms around him. “Why didn’t you say you were upset about the freak holding a blaster on us?”

“I’m not. I mean, yeah, learning he was armed was some bad shit, but it isn’t why I’m…fuck. Fuck!”

He gently pushed her away and stomped to the window. It was dark, a world of shadows beyond. He stared at the blackness and considered the monsters potentially lurking in it.

“I’ll never be free of them, will I?”

“Free of who?” Detodev’s voice was surprisingly gentle.

Ilid swallowed. The rest had told their stories, and it was his turn. He’d recognized much of himself in Detodev’s tale. The difference was, the Nobek was true to his nature despite himself, and he wasn’t as bestial as he feared. He only needed to recognize he had gained control of his urges since he’d gained maturity.

Ilid, however…he’d lost any claim to the Dramok mindset of unhesitating leader.

“I thought O’Neal was a Dark when I saw him through the window. I believed we were good as dead. Or worse.” His mouth was dry. Further words stuck in his throat. Remembering his first sight of the moving shadow sent his heart into overdrive. Dread of the horrors of the past and the terrors the future might hold filled him with his own darkness. He rasped, “Mitag, I can’t. Tell them for me.”

After a second’s hesitation, the Imdiko shared Ilid’s story as the young man stared through the window, unable to stop searching for movement in the formless night. Haven was secure for now…but could its authorities and their safeguards truly keep out the entities determined to strip their dimension of sentient life?

He noted how Mitag glossed over his stay in the psychiatric hospital. Ilid turned to the openly horrified Charity and Detodev to tell the story properly. “I wasn’t suffering from mere trauma I could talk through after I returned to Kalquor. I had a complete and total breakdown. I hallucinated the Darks everywhere. I relived the medical experiments I was put through without benefit of anesthesia. I screamed myself awake each and every night, soaked in sweat. At one point, I tried to kill myself. I couldn’t stand the idea of dragging my parents into my abyss. I’m coping now, for the most part, but tonight showed me how uncertain my mental state remains. If I face the Darks again, I’ll probably fall apart. Anyone who’s in my life as a serious partner or clanmate…I’ll be useless to them.”

They gazed at him. Detodev, in recognition. Mitag’s sorrow for his suffering was obvious.

Charity appeared touched. She came to him and stopped just in reach, though she didn’t try to make contact. “Can I ask what would you have done if it had been a Dark outside rather than O’Neal?”

He blinked. “Huh?”

“When you believed there was a Dark ready to come at us, what were you going to do?”

“I was ready to grab you, toss you to Detodev, and let you three run for safety and help while I tried to keep it from you.” As if he could do anything else.

Mitag approached too. “In other words, you’d have been the leader sacrificing himself for the good of the rest. You had no intention of running and hiding, though it scared you. You don’t get more Dramok than that, Ilid.”

Ilid stared at him. Mitag thought he’d behaved as a Dramok should?

“He’s right.” Charity’s voice was soft and feeling filled her features.

Mitag’s regard went to Detodev. “While we’re pointing out the obvious, you couldn’t have been a more mature Nobek than you were when you snuck outside to stop a blaster-carrying asshole. You held him and caused no serious injury. Instead of taking him apart, as many would have…as I wanted to…you waited for the authorities to sort out the situation. You were strong and upheld your vow to be a pacifist. You struck the perfect balance, Detodev. I could tell even Groteg was impressed.”

“I’d say you and Ilid have your shit together as far as your breeds dictate.” Charity smiled at the pair.

“I guess…I guess we did okay.” Detodev eyed Ilid. He appeared far from convinced, but there was a spark of hope in his expression.

Ilid’s mind whirled. Had he acted like a Dramok? He mostly remembered the fear, but he’d also been ready to assume as much control over the situation as possible.

Charity’s warm attention abruptly lessened, as if something unpleasant had occurred to her. Mischief invaded and held sway as she planted her hands on her hips and affected impatience. “I declare the matter settled. Can we have dessert already?”

Ilid had little consideration for her silly hijinks. He exchanged another look with Detodev, who looked as shocked as he felt. Charity and Mitag were right about the Nobek behaving as a true, honorable warrior and protector. Were they correct in their assessment of Ilid too?

The cheesecake was delicious, but Charity couldn’t offer it the regard it deserved after the events of the night.

She’d wished to make the men to feel better about themselves. She’d wanted Detodev and Ilid to emerge from their shells, if only for a moment or two. Long enough to realize they wouldn’t be destroyed if they revealed why they were so reserved.

She hadn’t expected Mitag’s revelation. She hadn’t guessed the horrors Ilid had survived and still fought in his head. Detodev getting the unforeseen opportunity to show himself his breed didn’t equal mindless violence had been a meaningful development. She had yet to process the fallout of O’Neal’s treachery.

Such considerations paled in comparison to recognizing the shift in her view of her friends. On the shuttle heading to Haven, she’d seen Ilid as a sexy potential recreational interlude. She’d had the same attitude toward Detodev and Mitag once she’d met them. Then she’d discovered she liked the men. The opportunity for novelty sex involving a species she hadn’t tried had grown less important in comparison to earning their respect and trust. The camaraderie they’d incited made them important to her.

To discover they’d experienced painful pasts and losses on par and beyond her own had changed her perceptions again. Ilid, Detodev, and Mitag weren’t mere playmates to alleviate her boredom. They were no longer distractions during her exile on Haven. She couldn’t imagine treating them as such.

She set down her fork, having finished her slice of cheesecake. She grasped Ilid’s hand and smiled when he looked at her, his face sweet from confused vulnerability. She turned to Mitag and took his hand too. Grateful Detodev was in reach, she placed her and the Imdiko’s hands on top of his.

“You aren’t sure of yourselves and for good reason. I hope someday you can learn how wonderful you are.”

Surprisingly, it was Detodev who answered. He rotated his hand on the tabletop, his fingers long enough to grip hers and Mitag’s. “I wish I could see myself as you do, Matara. It hardly seems possible.”

“Give yourself the chance. All of you.” She smiled at them. “I thought my sister had won the ideal clan; the best Dramok, Imdiko, and Nobek to exist. I’m glad to see there are three additional Kalquorians just as perfect in this crazy universe.”

Detodev stared at the hands in his. He felt how Charity and even Mitag held tight to him. When his gaze lifted, he saw Ilid looking at him. Not in revulsion or pity. Respectfully. This from a man who’d encountered a shattering enemy and fought a battle that made Detodev’s insignificant self-doubt a joke.

They accepted him. A woman, who had every right to expect a rational protector guided by concern instead of bloodlust, and two of his fellow Kalquorians, who should have looked upon him in derision.

They accepted him.

The implications shook his foundations. For the first time he could remember, he felt optimistic his path wouldn’t be lonely. Perhaps he did have the prospect to win others as he truly was…a Nobek desperate to leash his inner beast. Mitag had pursued his companionship unknowing, but he radiated the same interest in Detodev as ever. Ilid’s easy Dramok control had soothed the monster in him while he’d had O’Neal at his mercy.

Charity’s issues presented an opening for continued trouble, but she believed in him. He wanted to keep her safe from those who’d harm her. If Ilid were close should she came under threat again, he could hold off Detodev from his worst.

Charity had no intention of staying on Haven, but why would Detodev refuse the time he could have in her company? Especially after their encounter in the barn, when she’d granted him the best night of his life?

He had no business dreaming of the impossible. Surely they’d turn from him when he showed he couldn’t defend them from threats for fear of going too far and killing someone. Nonetheless, he spoke, giving voice to a portion of his ridiculous hope.

“Would you three care to spend the night?”

Their grins lit his world. He lost no time leading them to the sleeping room.

Chapter Fourteen

Ilid had hoped to get Charity to himself for their first real intimate encounter, but Detodev’s invitation was a relief in the wake of the Dark scare. Thanks to two other men being present to help watch their backs against dangers imagined and real, he might actually be able to perform. The heat in his groin as he considered Charity, who fairly wiggled in anticipation, verified he would.

Another integral part of his being rose in opposition. His heart sank to realize a clan-like encounter might not happen after all in Detodev’s surprisingly luxurious sleeping room. “It’s your home, Detodev. Your domain, so to speak. Even so, I’m unsure if I can keep from being…well…”

“A bossy Dramok,” Charity supplied.

“Maybe I should sit this one out.” Ilid winced as he spoke the words.

“Oh, come on.” Charity’s eyes rolled.

Detodev considered. “Actually, it might be for the best if you ran the show. As committed as I am to nonviolence, I still have the urge to fight for dominance. If I forget myself and hurt any of you—”

Charity came close to him and stroked his muscled arm. “I doubt you would, even if you did wrestle Ilid for the privilege of calling the shots. Hey, you were assertive last night, and I survived perfectly fine.” Her impish gaze swung to Ilid. “Maybe I’ll fight you for control, Dramok.”

Ilid took her in, this stunning woman who’d enthralled him from the moment he’d first set eyes on her. Her soft, swelling curves brought a surge of arousal, adding to his already excited state. He had no defense against the image of her straining against him, then surrendering when she was shown her strength was no match for his enthusiastic libido. “You can try. In fact, I encourage you to.”

“Just leave something for the rest of us.” Mitag joked, but his gaze on Charity was avid.

“I’ll try but no promises. We did a lot of petting on our journey here. We never had the opportunity to fully enjoy each other. I’m dying to correct the situation.”

“I haven’t had the pleasure of making love to her at all. I feel neglected.”

“We’ll fix that. Detodev, are you certain you’re all right playing my way?” Ilid’s instincts told him the natural urges the Nobek feared he’d take too far had to be acknowledged for fear it would detract from his self-esteem. He couldn’t be discounted no matter how he claimed he was ready to let go of the reins.

“Very.”

“Hold on.” Charity scowled. “A trio of hulking Kalquorian men versus little old me? It hardly sounds fair.”

Her arousal scent, which reminded Ilid of a sea breeze on a summer day, had increased despite her protest. It was tantalizing, as it had been on the transport. For all her teasing about fighting him for dominance, she found the idea of being at their tender mercies titillating.

He and she were very much in agreement where that was concerned.

“Fair isn’t high on my list, I’m afraid. You’re welcome to try to fight,” he leered. He eyed her clothes. “How much do you like your outfit?”

She glanced at the loose men’s shirt, which did little to mask her generous curves. “I borrowed this from Adam for chores around the farm. Don’t tear up the kid’s clothes.”

“I guess you’ll need the jeans intact too. You told me you didn’t have a lot in the way of clothes suited for Haven.”

“You’ll have to contain your apparent desire to tear them off me.” She smirked.

“If I must,” Ilid sighed. At the same instant, he glanced at Detodev.

The Nobek understood his assignment as if they’d done this a million times. Before Charity could react, he slid his arm around her waist, pinning her arms. He cupped her chin in his palm and held her head to his chest, her back to his front.

Her eyes widened, the pupils blooming in reaction. Her breath caught, and the feminine aroma of excitement increased. Ilid swore he could hear her pulse booming.

He began unbuttoning the red-and-black flannel shirt, starting from the bottom after he’d tugged the tails loose from Detodev’s firm hold on her. “I haven’t forgotten how soft your skin is from those few stolen moments when we had the opportunity to touch. I can’t wait to feel you naked against me.”

“You should let me have a go at your shirt then. After all, Detodev would probably let you borrow his clothes if I rip it.” She struggled to free herself of the Nobek’s grip. He clasped her casually, his scent of desire rising.

“I happen to be fond of my outfit, thanks. Stand there as the conquered woman you are, and accept I’m in charge.” He’d reached the button between her breasts. He undid it and caught a glimpse of ivory lace. His cocks jerked in reaction.

Pressure on his shin stole his attention. Charity’s foot pushed his leg. She didn’t kick but merely shoved.

Chuckling, Ilid scooped the offending leg into the crook of his elbow and restrained it. A jerk of his head brought Mitag close to hold the other leg likewise. “Let’s see you get out of that,” he teased.

“Bullies,” she hissed as she squirmed…halfheartedly, Ilid noticed.

He found it a little difficult to unfasten the final button onehanded. He was used to resealable seams he simply tugged open. The ample swells of her breasts were a distraction, but he managed to undo the last obstacle after a few moments. He spread Charity’s borrowed shirt open.

She was magnificent. Her flushed breasts rose and fell in their half-concealing cups, full and voluptuous. Ilid had an eager urge to shred the lace and silk keeping him from seeing the gorgeous mounds in their entirety. Lust tried to overwhelm him.

The undergarment looked expensive, however. Maybe I’ll buy her something cheaper to wear next time. A boring bra she won’t mind me tearing apart. His fingers trembled in excitement to do so.

He let the fantasy feed his passion as he slid his hands behind her, between her back and Detodev’s torso. Fortunately, the bra strap release was of the resealable persuasion, and he was able to loosen it with no trouble.

All that remained was to tug the shirt and bra down her arms, rendering her naked from the waist up. Detodev released and resumed his restraining grip too fast for her to break free, but not so fast to keep Ilid from sweeping the clothing off.

She was bare to them above her denim pants, her delectable flesh theirs to behold and marvel at. Her breasts, free of constriction, were heavy. Tear-shaped, tipped by blushing nipples already erect in excitement, they were enthralling. Ilid felt a decadent hunger looking at them. He let seconds pass to prolong the anticipation of when he’d touch and taste them.

Next to him, Mitag uttered a soft moan of yearning. Detodev, peering intently over Charity’s shoulder at her nakedness, licked his lips so they shone. It wasn’t just Charity’s and Ilid’s arousal scents permeating the air now. Desire hung so heavy, the Dramok could taste it on every breath he drew in his mouth. The urge to lick her from head to toe was compelling.

He cupped a breast in his palm, testing its weight. He found it softer and more supple than he remembered. His thumb swept across her nipple, and he watched it tauten in reaction as Charity inhaled sharply and jerked. She gazed up at him, peering through the fall of honey hair tumbled over her face. She looked wanton and helpless at once.

Ilid squeezed. She jerked again, rising slightly. A crease appeared between her brows, but she didn’t tell him to stop. If anything, she pushed so her breast filled his hand better.

“Unlike Detodev, I have no concern of losing control,” Ilid told her. “If we do anything you hate or absolutely can’t take, your word is sholt .”

“Kalquorian for stop .” Her voice was breathy, raising the hairs on his body. Her palpable eagerness fed his own. “And if I’m unsure? Kind of into it, kind of not?”

“Then say werpac . It means slow.” Ilid enunciated each syllable to make sure she could repeat the Kalquorian word.

She did, half a dozen times under his direction. She bestowed her naughtiest grin. “Maybe you’re a bully, but at least you aren’t a jerk.”

“I do my best,” he snorted. “I don’t care for how easily you’re carrying on a conversation though. Let’s see what we can do about it.”

He swooped down and sucked in a mouthful of her breast. Her reaction was immediate and gratifying: a loud cry, accompanied by enthusiastic squirming.

“She’s loud.” Detodev’s tone revealed he enjoyed her wriggling against him. “You won’t be left guessing if she’s enjoying herself.”

Ilid didn’t answer immediately. He enjoyed the slightly salty taste of her skin and the feeling of her softer flesh on his tongue. He delighted in the stiff point of her nipple before drawing off with a slight popping noise. He was pleased to see Charity’s eyes had gone glassy.

“Her ardent vocal appreciation and my parent clan’s quarters proximity to mine and hers kept us from getting as intimate as we wished on the ship,” he sighed. “Otherwise, we would have had quite the time.”

“Damn right we would have,” Charity groaned. “I tried to be quiet, but I can’t seem to turn my vocal cords off.”

“She’s talking again. All I want are those screams now that we’re in a place where I can enjoy them. Help me claim the paradise I’ve waited too long for, Mitag.”

He bent to her breast. Mitag’s enthusiastic slurps on its twin filled his ears.

At last, Mitag could join wholeheartedly in the seduction. He adored bringing his lovers to full passion as much as the act of sex itself. He’d held off thus far with Charity in deference to Ilid’s need for control.

Lovemaking was as good a venue as any for his new friend to exercise the Dramok tendencies he’d become unsure of. He was glad to allow Ilid to assume the leadership characteristics he’d been born to, in a safe space where only Charity had offered a quickly abandoned challenge. Mitag reasoned it might help Ilid recover a measure of the confidence he’d lost to the Darks. The Imdiko was convinced that like Detodev, Ilid sold himself short when it came to being the best of his breed.

These thoughts were background noise to his enjoyment of Charity’s sumptuous flesh. He’d had a few sexual encounters involving Earther women on Haven, but never someone so graced by curves, nor so set on enjoying erotic delights to the fullest. Her moans of pleasure were musical. He was enthralled to hear her voice it.

Sharing her with two others, specifically a Dramok and a Nobek…also a thrill. Some Kalquorian men had leapt at the chance to have a woman to themselves when the new laws had recognized nontraditional unions. Kalquorian men no longer had to form clans of Dramok, Imdiko, and Nobek in order to establish a legal binding to a Matara. Many Earther women, coming from a strictly monogamous society, also preferred to find a single partner rather than a clan of three.

Mitag had ached for it all. He’d dreamed of a full clan to love and care for from childhood. He understood it was because he’d been denied a parent clan of his own. His guardians hadn’t truly wanted him. They’d regarded raising him a duty foisted on them. His petition to be granted emancipation at the age of seventeen had been greeted by relief from his uncles, aunt, and cousins. It had hurt to be so eagerly released, but it was easier than being alone in the midst of those to whom his presence was unwelcome.

He was determined to join a real clan. Hoping to make it happen, he’d latched onto the standoffish Detodev he’d suspected was as lonesome as himself. Now here was Ilid, certain he couldn’t lead a clan though he obviously could.

Despite Charity swearing she couldn’t wait to leave Haven, Mitag was sure she’d experienced the sense of abandonment he’d lived under. It was in her dogged pursuit of Detodev, in her determination to lift Ilid from his fears, in the frequent hugs and touches she gifted Mitag.

Imdiko, Dramk, Nobek, and Matara. Mitag realized he indulged in wishful thinking, but it was impossible to stop dreaming they could be the only thing he desired above success and riches: a clan.

Charity’s senses were aflame. Detodev’s powerful but easy restraint was heady bondage. He held her helpless, but he gave her a sense of safety nonetheless. The confinement freed her to submerge in the enthusiastic caresses of the other pair. Their hands were hot on her as they roamed in exploration, leaving heated trails, as if burning paths on her skin. Their mouths were hotter still. Hot and wet and hungry, they sucked and licked and nipped until she couldn’t think for the shocks reverberating through her.

Detodev’s passion was obvious against her lower back. His livid state of arousal was firm iron despite the fabric of their pants separating them. She recalled how he’d felt inside her, front and rear. Her cunt spasmed in demand to have him that way again.

She barely noticed when Ilid and Mitag tugged her sturdy shoes off, followed by her socks. She was better aware of her jeans peeling off her legs. She was fully awake to those insistent hands gripping her inner thighs, of them sweeping circles toward the soaked crotch of her panties. Her cries gained volume the closer they crept. They discovered the creases between thighs and mound at the same instant, where the edge of her underwear kept her womanhood hidden. There, fingertips danced, refusing to cross the silky border.

Mitag kissed up her chest, throat, chin. His mouth locked on hers to swallow her moans. His tongue swept in to taste as Ilid continued to devour her breast. She strained in their uncompromising grips, trying to find contact linking her pussy and their fingers. They remained tantalizingly out of reach where she most wanted to be touched.

Ilid relinquished her breast to travel downward. He left a wet line from her nipple to her navel, where his rough tongue swirled. The idea of how it would feel should he lick her in such a fashion where her pulse hammered hardest made her writhe.

His and Mitag’s fingers dared no closer to where lust clamored to be sated. Charity’s keening grew more desperate.

Detodev apparently found it difficult to simply watch and contain her. He nuzzled her neck, nosing her hair aside to kiss and nip. After a few seconds, he mumbled against her skin, his breath balmy. “Dramok?”

Mitag’s kiss kept Charity from seeing Ilid, but his lips and tongue briefly left her. “Yes.” He said nothing further. He continued his journey lower, until he encountered the waistband of her panties. Like his fingers, his mouth went no farther.

Charity had little opportunity to protest. Detodev fastened on her neck. Two jabs of pain at once announced his bite.

She’d heard of the intoxicating Kalquorian bite. It supposedly affected humans differently from Kalquorians, but she’d barely paid attention to what to expect.

The sharp hurt wasn’t sexy. She started to scream, but it died before she barely unleashed a high-pitched whimper. The smart was finished in an instant. She hissed on her exhale instead of bringing down the roof by shrieking.

They might have warned me. Her pique was quickly swallowed by the return of yearning. She wished Ilid and Mitag would stop goofing around and touch her damned pussy already. She’d have been perfectly fine if they’d torn apart her expensive lingerie. She craved their flesh on hers.

The impatience began to lose its sharp edges. Warmth separate from the encompassing sensual fire crept over her. Her strange sense of safety increased. Euphoria swept through her brain. Charity abruptly sensed they’d transcended mere sexual drive, that they’d somehow pierced the veil between the mundane world and a higher plane. She was alive in a cosmic sense, one with the universe.

Detodev extracted his fangs and slowly licked where he’d bitten her. The roughness of his tongue woke excitement to match the teasing touches and kisses of Ilid and Mitag. Charity’s lust ramped up, but the feeling she’d ascended to another realm remained. She felt on the verge of a great revelation at any second, a truth capable of sweeping away all doubt and confusion forever.

This can’t be from his venom. Can it? It must be…but it feels so real!

Her senses had never been so heightened, pleasure never so immediate and acute. She swore she could feel every millimeter of their tongues and lips, every crease of their fingerprints on her skin.

The waistband of her panties scraped her hips as Ilid at last tugged them free. His mouth followed the fabric’s retreat, putting him on his knees. Charity’s hair stood on end at the profoundness of the sensation. She was certain she’d blow apart if he touched her pussy now. The mere sensation of the wet fabric peeling from her sex brought spasms of bliss rolling through her. Her cries rang when Mitag’s kiss drifted to her jaw.

Mitag and Detodev kissed her as one. Their mouths were on hers in a second, faces pressed together to share her in a thought-erasing embrace. The trio’s tongues slid sinuously, tasting their blended ardor.

Warm air wafted over Charity’s intimate flesh, which tightened in response. A fourth tongue slid along her trembling slit. Her mouth opened wide for a scream as exquisite rapture coalesced to a brilliant star point. It hovered, waiting for the final push.

Ilid reached her clit. His lips closed on it. He sucked at the same instant he licked the nub where Charity’s consciousness had gathered. She detonated.

Sight was gone. No sound. Nothing but the vastest surges of bliss she’d ever known, though she was too far gone to realize she knew anything. There was only the moment followed by another, an eternity of the promised paradise contained in a few seconds.

Though the onset of climax was sublime, it was too much to wish to continue longer than it did. Charity emerged to gentler swells of pleasure and the beautiful realization of Ilid, Mitag, and Detodev. Imdiko and Nobek treated her to roaming kisses, decadently sampling her from head to chest. Ilid continued to feed from her womanhood, prolonging the sweet convulsions of desire until they were utterly spent. Only when her moans softened to sighs and her sex’s tremors eased did he rise to his feet.

“Detodev, strip,” Ilid ordered the Nobek. His burning gaze swung to Mitag. “Imdiko, lay her down and eat her pussy. I want her hot and ready for me to fuck as soon as possible.”

Charity’s pulse sped at his blatant orders. He was so demanding. Her cunt, which had been thoroughly sated, convulsed in unabashed excitement.

She wasn’t sure if Mitag’s eyes darkened from the promise of being between her legs or in response to Ilid’s authority. Perhaps it was both. At any rate, she was suddenly flat on her back on Detodev’s large bed. Mitag stood at its edge and bent to bestow his sweet kiss to her trembling folds. Renewed warmth spread from his eager mouthing.

Adding to the delicious feeling of his rough tongue investigating her meticulously was the sight of Detodev’s body as he peeled his clothing off. She’d missed seeing all of him due to their tryst in the barn’s dark environs. Her gaze was greedy as she drank him in.

The work on the farm involved far more physical exertion than fixing the field monitors, as Detodev’s carved physique attested to. The scars on his inner arms and a few fresher cuts just scabbing over woke compassion in Charity’s heart. Adoration washed through her when Ilid caught the Nobek’s wrist to examine the injuries closely. Detodev’s head hung until the Dramok stroked the fresher wounds gently, like a parent soothing his child’s hurts away. Detodev looked at him, his expression raw.

“No more,” Ilid whispered. “You’re done taking out your rage on yourself. There is nothing wrong with you, Detodev.”

The hunger to believe was a poignant statement on the Nobek’s strong features. “If it’s what you want, I’ll try.”

“It’s what I want.”

Mitag chose that instant to suck Charity’s clit hard, his tongue whipping over it. Exquisite pleasure broke apart her senses. Her being centered on the Imdiko thrusting yearning to the fore. Charity arched, her fingers tangling in his thick waves.

“Our lovely is getting excited again.” Ilid grinned at Detodev. “Take the rest of your clothes off.”

In a moment, he’d done so. His venom had worn off, but Charity felt a rush of similar wonder in looking at him while Mitag drove her higher in arousal. The Nobek was a stunning sculpture of carved flesh, the epitome of masculine beauty the scars couldn’t detract from. The entire package was so exquisite, it took her a couple of beats to realize how big his gleaming cocks were. Her heart skipped. Had they really had amazing sex when he was so huge? It was probably a good thing their first encounter had been in the dark. Otherwise, she might have run screaming.

“You’re stunning,” she breathed.

A smile edged its unaccustomed appearance on the Nobek’s face. Its wickedly lascivious cast gave him an air of danger.

Ilid turned toward Charity and Mitag. “This Imdiko should be naked too.”

Mitag didn’t pause his delicious attentions on Charity for a moment as he stripped. He was a talented fellow to manage so much at once. If anything, his ardor increased.

Three men devoted to her. The clan system definitely had its perks.

Charity’s sight was impeded by his position and her own writhing as his enthusiastic tongue delved deep in her womanhood, as he sucked hungrily on her clit, as his fingers plunged in and fucked her.

She was awash in desire, her senses consumed. Ilid began pulling off his clothes, displaying a body less brawny than Detodev’s but phenomenally fit and exciting nonetheless. As soon as she was able, she touched him, eager to investigate his smooth skin stretched over solid muscle. Ilid’s hair was sleeker than the rest, sliding through her fingers like water. The combined scent of the men, sweet and spicy at once, made her mouth water in a decadent hunger to taste them.

Ilid muttered something in his own language. Mitag rose from between her legs, his expression caught amid passion and reluctance to leave. Charity finally had a decent view of the Imdiko. He’d told her he preferred aerobic activity to building muscle. He had his share of strength, however. His was a gracefully toned frame rather than Ilid’s power or Detodev’s heft. He was lovely everywhere, including the somehow elegant cocks jutting from his groin.

“Look at you three. I’m the luckiest girl on Haven,” she sighed.

Her statement was greeted by grins of various brightness. “I think we’re just as lucky,” Ilid said. “Especially since you’re giving me the opportunity to do what I’ve always wanted.”

“Have sex with an Earther?”

“Well, it’s part of it, but I hope for more.” He crawled up on the bed and knelt. He lifted her, and her mouth went dry at the casual strength he displayed doing so. He made it seem effortless when he had her straddle his thick thighs, putting his cocks against her mound. “Ready for an adventure?”

His expression of craving thrilled her. No hesitation slowed her answer. “Yes.”

“Do you remember the words for slow and stop?”

Her heartbeat quickened to discover he thought she might want to use them. The hint of risk roused rather than frightened her. “Werpac. Sholt.”

“All right. Let’s see how you feel about this.”

He lifted her higher, bringing her close. His primary nudged her pussy, but his secondary was off the mark. Ilid rose on his knees as the smaller cock somehow disappeared. It took Charity a moment to realize someone had eased it down, where it wouldn’t enter her anywhere.

Ilid drew her onto himself and pushed in, joining them in the most ecstatic of embraces.

Charity’s head fell back, and she shouted her welcome. The ache of taking him as his girth increased added to the electric thrills shooting from where they linked. His secondary slid along the crack of her ass. She clawed his shoulders, and he snarled bestial delight at the sting. Their mouths met. They took turns biting the other’s lips as brute eagerness claimed them.

Her legs wrapped around his hips of their own accord. She gripped with all her strength and moved, riding him. He responded, thrusting deep when she descended. Jolts of pleasurable pain stabbed. She voiced every luscious instant.

The ache of taking him lessened, leaving rapture. They heaved as one, intent on gratification after having waited so long for intimacy together. When Ilid forced her to pause, only the tip of him inside, she wailed a wordless demand.

“More? Help me give her what she wants.”

There was movement, the feeling of Ilid’s secondary sliding into place…but not at her rear entrance.

Charity gasped as the Dramok pressed the second girth in her cunt, intent on having it join his primary. She stared at him wide-eyed, speechless at the attempt. As he forged inward, her head began shaking.

“Oh yes. Yes, you will, my beauty, and you’ll love every moment of it.” His fangs flashed at her from behind his blunter teeth, turning him to pure primal male.

They were both soaking wet from excitement. As thick as the double impalement was, he was sliding in easily. Charity was stunned…then he found her inner sensitivity, and she had no room to be anything but incredibly aroused. So aroused that when he paused, she tried to bounce to take him in.

“You need to adjust,” he growled. “ Sholt , Matara.”

It was his tone rather than the word slamming her to a halt. It held command she dared not defy despite the hunger eating up her insides. She froze in place, shuddering as she stared wide-eyed at Ilid.

His expression was as domineering as his voice. Charity had met few possessing such mischief-killing authority. Her father and two of her sister’s clanmates, Piras and Lokmi, had been the only others who’d wielded it so powerfully.

She trusted Ilid. She also didn’t dare question him when he looked at her as he did now.

The slight smile twitching a corner of his mouth did nothing to lessen the effect. “Better. My pace, for your own good. Do you understand?”

She nodded, unsure if she possessed a voice.

His gaze remained locked on hers as he pressed in a little further. Despite the thrill shooting straight to her skull as his cocks delivered intense friction, his bald stare kept her from demanding everything. She groaned and gripped him hard, but offered no attempt to insist on him moving faster or deeper than he was willing to allow.

Because he held all the control, Charity was able to acknowledge the ache of taking him. She also noted it added rather than detracted from the violent pulses of need running through her, inciting recklessness. He was wise to be cautious. The part of her not impatient for all he could give her appreciated his care.

“Good, Matara,” he praised. “Almost there.”

His approval warmed her more than she wanted to acknowledge. Charity covered her delight and unease by kissing him. She did so sweetly rather than displaying the passion that threatened to make her too demanding. He returned it in kind, though she sensed he was expending huge effort to hold back. The strengthening jerks from his cocks betrayed how close he was to losing his impressive control over himself.

Her mound met his groin. He was in her, all the way. Charity shuddered. The force of his girth against her hotspot had her on the verge of climax. She couldn’t imagine holding off the instant he moved again.

“ Werpac ,” she reluctantly ground out between clenched teeth, her breath quick. “Shit, it won’t matter how slow you go. I’m too close.”

“Don’t worry about it. I doubt you’ll be far ahead of us.” He chuffed laughter as he panted. “Detodev’s been growling nonstop for the past couple of minutes.”

He was right. A glance at the Nobek next to her showed his pupils had bloomed so the slightest slivers of purple irises remained. His leer was feral. If it hadn’t excited Charity so much, she’d have been terrified.

“Sorry,” he managed. “You two are amazing to watch. Thinking of when I get to join in…yeah, I’m on the edge.”

“You haven’t seen anything yet,” Ilid smirked. “Mitag, are you ready?”

“To explode? Yeah, but I’ll give this my best effort.” His warm breath on Charity’s ear, the feeling of him moving behind her, made passion leap. Her pussy convulsed.

“Hair trigger for us all,” Ilid gasped.

Something brushed Charity’s rear entrance, then settled on it. She stilled, her whole body freezing. No way. Mitag couldn’t possibly be considering—

The pressure built. Her ass yielded, albeit grudgingly. He wasn’t just considering, he was doing . With Ilid’s pair in her.

“This…this can’t be possible.” She experienced merely the slightest ache, and Mitag had paused already. Panic hadn’t set in, so she was able to speak in a halfway reasonable tone.

“Very possible,” Detodev rumbled. “You had me there last night.”

She had, but while only one cock filled her pussy. Were three conceivable?

Mitag’s chest moved against her spine in big waves of breath. He’d said he was on the brink of losing control. Nevertheless, he managed to tell her, “I’m going slow. Being careful. I won’t hurt you.”

“None of us will.” Ilid kissed her gently to underscore the reassurance.

As he did so, he moved ever so slightly, so his cocks rubbed her inner hotspot. Excitement flared anew, and Charity forgot to be concerned. Under rapture’s spell, Mitag’s slow impalement lost any discomfort. He gave just intense sensation, which fed the fever of need consuming her.

She hoped taking them in such a way was possible. It was too incredible not to try. The seconds stretched to a minute, then two. She concentrated on softening to the gradual invasion, eager to experience an act she’d never dreamed of.

“Mother of All,” Mitag at last moaned. “I can’t believe I made it. You feel amazing, Charity. So unbelievably fantastic.”

Ilid was quaking. “I could feel you moving in her. I nearly lost it twice. One stroke, and I’m done.”

“I have a suggestion,” Detodev said as he climbed to stand on his bed. “Next time we do this, we get off quick first…just do it however it works…then we’ll take our time while we warm up for the second round.”

Charity eyed the pair of glistening cocks he’d brought to eye…make that mouth…level. The scent coming off him woke a hunger to gobble him. Her pussy was spasming steadily now, needing probably only Ilid’s single available stroke to finish the job. “What’s to keep this from being Round One? Sleep is vastly overrated, you know. We’re young, horny, and impetuous. Let’s take advantage of it and set a world record number of fucks tonight.”

Wheezing laughter answered her ribald challenge. “I recover quick,” Ilid said. “I’m up…and hard…for the challenge.”

“The advantages of our youth,” Mitag panted.

Charity rolled her eyes up at Detodev, looming so far above. He was a living god of primitive lust; she, his willing acolyte. “Feed me, big man. Let’s make this happen so we can get going on the next.”

He growled. His hips dipped, and Charity slid as much of his primary in her mouth as she could manage. Her lips and tongue stroked the luscious sweet-spicy length, her head bobbing.

An instant later, Ilid’s hips rocked. He slid outward, then in again. As he filled her, Mitag retreated to the tip of his cock. They alternated as both men proved they had more than a single stroke available.

Ilid managed three thrusts. Charity thought Mitag reached four, but the second the Dramok shouted and his cocks pulsed, Detodev’s passion flooded her mouth. Their combined release set off her own devouring orgasm, so she wasn’t entirely sure when her third lover joined in.

Afterward, when the violent surges eased to quieter pulses of pleasure, she found herself embraced by the men, Detodev having knelt. Or maybe he’d fallen to his knees. Charity wasn’t sure if they trembled in the aftermath thanks to her own quivering, but it felt as if they did.

Holy shit, I had sex with three men at once. Her mind boggled as her body slowly settled into a contented hum. How had they gotten her to trust them to do such an act? Sure, she’d had moments of hesitation, but for the most part, there’d been a sense of easy reliance on their responsibility for her welfare. She couldn’t imagine having equal faith in any other trio of men.

They began to stir. First Mitag, then Ilid, cautiously drew their sexes from her. She missed feeling them inside, as if important parts of her own body had been subtracted.

It made no sense. She couldn’t wrap her head around the sensation of loss.

“Are you okay?” Ilid’s gaze was intent on her face.

“Yeah, just wishing you weren’t exiting the premises. That was amazing.”

“If rushed,” Mitag chuckled. “I felt like a teenager who had yet to learn control. Such an incredible experience.”

“It was.” Detodev’s features were relaxed. He looked happy. “Who needs water?”

They all did. They clumsily left the bed, laughing at their awkwardness as they staggered on stiff legs to Detodev’s kitchen. He provided cups of water, fruit juices, and snacks. They sat naked at his table, grinning in a sort of shocked fashion, as if they couldn’t believe what they’d done. They exchanged cautious glances of inquiry as well. Finally Detodev brought up what they all wanted to ask.

“You’re staying the entire night, right? I do believe someone spoke of setting a record for sex? I have stim tabs.”

Their laughter answered. Ilid waved his hand in a ‘come on’ gesture. “Serve them up, my friend. We have maybe six hours until daylight?”

“I guess I’d better com Sara.” Charity flushed to think of the required check-in, but she had no intention of going home. The boys offered too much fun to refuse.

* * * *

Hours had passed, hours he’d normally be in bed asleep, but Wilkes and his guest were still talking after the assistant chief had summoned the man to his home.

“I can’t do anything for O’Neal. They caught him, and Chief Connelly’s determined to interrogate him tomorrow. He swore he wouldn’t reveal the woman’s real identity, because it’ll make it harder for us to take her if Connelly’s aware. The trouble is, when he starts ranting…”

Jeff Eastman, who owned a small sheep ranch five miles from Sunrise, watched Wilkes carefully. “O’Neal’s usually true to the cause of believers, but he’s most loyal to himself. If Connelly offers him a deal…if he convinces him to run his mouth…”

“I know. He spied at the coward Nobek’s house on his own. I never would have trusted him to do that kind of work for this very reason. He’s put the whole operation in danger.” Wilkes pounded his fist on the table. “Asshole.”

“What are you going to do about him? The cause is our priority.” Eastman’s tone was flat, almost disinterested, but his dark eyes set in his weathered face glittered malevolence.

“It is. I’ll see to it he tells Connelly nothing.”

It was too bad O’Neal’s ardent support of a moral Earther mentality was superseded by his stupidity. There were damned few people Wilkes could count on when it came to keeping tabs on the sinners of Haven.

Wilkes set aside the unpleasant task he had to perform for the last trick he had up his sleeve to nab Charity Nath. “Our main mission hasn’t changed. You know who to talk to. Have them ready to go on my word.”

* * * *

Charity woke to see the first light of a new day creeping in the window. It offered her a dim view of her surroundings. She might have muttered a few obscenities to be conscious at such an hour after so little sleep, except the surroundings were extremely nice.

Next to her was Ilid. Ridiculously handsome despite his tousled hair and the crease between his brows proclaiming his dreams weren’t necessarily as sweet as hers had been, he was indeed a fine sight to wake to. Ditto for Mitag on her other side, his features the opposite of Ilid’s: peaceful and content. Maybe it was because of the heavy, scarred arm slung around his waist from behind. Detodev’s fingers on her waist twitched, as if he were awake and listening for her to speak or return to sleep.

She was surrounded by sheer gorgeousness, a decent compensation for having woken after less than two hours of sleep. Thinking how most of the night had been spent brought a grin.

I could get used to this, as long as it’s with these three.

Her high spirits stuttered at the spontaneous thought and the visions it brought. Where the hell had the notion come from? Ilid, Mitag, and Detodev had committed to lives on Planet Farm Hell, a place Charity Nath had absolutely no intention of staying. How could she possibly be happy on Haven and its sad little redneck towns and ever-present aroma of fertilizer?

She loved the excitement of cities and their entertainments. She wanted to go to clubs and dance, to dine in fine restaurants, to celebrate at concerts and the best shows. Beyond experiencing avenues of fun, she wanted to discover new stars and planets and make a name for herself in the astronomical community.

She’d found heavenly bodies, all right. She’d discovered men who seemed to get her as no one else had, even if she made Detodev’s eyes roll most of the time. But they were only a temporary distraction until she could escape Haven. They couldn’t possibly be a reason for her to remain on this shitkicker planet once the Earthtique and Dark threats were done. She had dreams for a life far from here.

Calm down. It was only a stray brain wave, probably brought on by too little sleep, she advised herself. Nonetheless, her gaze traced the features of the pair she could see, and her chest ached at the idea of giving the trio up.

Detodev lay quiet, listening to his companions breathe. Charity’s respiration hadn’t evened yet, indicating she remained awake. Surely not for the day, however. They’d indulged in exuberant physical activity for hours. Unlike him, she didn’t have to get up in ten minutes to prepare for work. Thank the ancestors he had plenty of stim tabs to get him through the day.

A low buzz filled his ears, and Detodev was up in a flash. Who the hell would be at his door so early in the morning? Surely it wasn’t another asshole attempting to attack Charity.

It better not be. Protectiveness brought the urge to tear any would-be assailant limb from limb to the fore.

The door announce’s summons had brought his overnight guests to full wakefulness. They sat up in bed. Ilid sprang up and yanked on his pants as Detodev did.

“Stay put. I’ll see who it is,” the Nobek told them as he headed for the front of the home.

He’d trotted halfway through the hall when he noticed Ilid was right behind him. The Dramok glanced at him, his brow raised in challenge. For a moment, Detodev entertained the notion of grabbing him, pitching him into the sleeping room, and locking him in. Then he remembered how Ilid had talked him down from hurting the stalker of the night before.

Detodev kept going, glad despite his concerns to have someone who could help him thwart his violent Nobek tendencies.

They paused at the door, standing on either side in case a blaster shot was waiting outside. At Ilid’s brief nod, Detodev thumbed the intercom and barked, “Who is it?”

“Good morning to you too, Detodev. May I come in?”

The Nobek exhaled at Sara’s amused tone. “Door, open.”

The lovely woman who’d been a better mother to him than his own stood on the doorstep, a massive covered basket in her arms. Detodev rushed to take the heavy container from her and inhaled the delicious smells coming from it in appreciation. “Hello, Matara Sara. I apologize for the rude greeting. I’d just woken up, and after catching the spy last night—”

Her raised hand cut him off. “It’s fine, sweetie. I brought breakfast for everyone. Hi, Ilid. How are you?”

Detodev didn’t miss her noting their shirtless, shoeless states. Obviously, Ilid did too, because his gaze dropped. He shuffled his feet. “Fine, Matara Sara. Good morning.”

“I take it Jennifer is still asleep? And Imdiko Mitag? You can reheat their meals when they peel their eyes open.”

“This is very nice of you,” Detodev said.

“In appreciation for you keeping Jennifer safe. Also, I’m giving you the day off with pay. You and your friends rest and have fun.” Wearing a bright, knowing smile that made Detodev want to sink into the floor, she patted him on the arm. Sara hurried to her shuttle, which waited in the front yard.

“Why is this as embarrassing as if it were my mom who’d shown up?” Ilid said.

“Because a mom is a mom, even if she isn’t ours.” Detodev snorted and headed for the kitchen. Tired or not, he was up for the day. If he had to function, so did the rest. He yelled, “Charity! Mitag! Breakfast is here.”

* * * *

Despite the heavenly aroma of egg, sausage, and cheese casserole, Charity groaned to hear of Sara’s breakfast delivery. The woman was as much family to her now as her Aunt Ruth and Uncle George. “I should just take out an ad to declare I had sex with you guys. Clan Amgar is about half the population of Sunrise, right? Might as well let the rest know.”

“At least she wasn’t judgmental or upset,” Mitag said as he passed a plate of fluffy biscuits.

“She wouldn’t, being clanned to Kalquorians herself.” Detodev sighed. “When I lived on their farm, she was always trying to introduce me to young ladies she knew. She can’t seem to stand anyone being on his own.”

Ilid came in the room, having taken a couple minutes to com his parent clan. Charity noted his face was flushed. “More parental types acting smug to know their youngling is having a romantic tryst?”

“My mother guessed it was you, and she’s delighted,” Ilid grouched as he sat down. Mitag slapping a slab of casserole on his plate for him appeared to cheer him a little. He inhaled, smiling.

“Wild happenings on Haven. I’m glad it’s ‘Jennifer’s’ reputation and not mine being wrecked,” Charity ruefully chuckled.

“Few on Haven care,” Detodev reminded her. “It’s a free-for-all on this planet when it comes to dating and sex. Nothing’s more fun when you aren’t farming or ranching.”

“Good point. Lacking clubs or attractions to visit, it leaves plenty of time to explore matters of a carnal nature.” When Charity thought of how repressed life had been on the original Earth, then the battlecruiser she’d escaped the dying planet on, she had a surreal moment of appreciating the changes in attitudes since she’d been a young teen.

“Now you’re figuring out why some of us like this planet. The all-night indulgence of our favorite hobby seems to have appealed to you,” Mitag snickered.

She smirked a challenge to her companions. “But if nothing’s too outrageous, what’s the point? Surely we can get up to shenanigans worth raising eyebrows.”

The men grinned at her and each other. Once again, she was struck by how different Detodev and Ilid were when they forgot to be reserved.

“It’ll be fun to try to figure out, if nothing else,” Ilid chuckled.

After fortifying themselves thanks to Sara’s excellent breakfast, they set out to do just that.

Chapter Sixteen

At Kalquorian Security Headquarters, in the governmental mini-city ten miles from Sunrise, Dramok Dolgra stood across the room from Groteg. The officer sat at his desk in his office. Dolgra knew he considered Groteg longer than was warranted, but the Nobek never failed to impress him. Much like his clanmates, the security chief was a riveting presence. Clan Amgar had a terrible tendency to rock Dolgra’s professionalism when he was on the job.

The Nobek pursed his lips as he read whatever report floated on the holographic monitor over his computer. It said a lot for him that he’d risen to the head of the Kalquorian branch of Haven’s planetary police force. Such an administrative position demanded a lot of work in the office, even if the person in charge was as hands-on an officer as Groteg was. Nobeks weren’t known for their willingness when it came to writing and reading reports. If this particular member of the protective breed had any issues doing the desk jockey portion of his job, Dolgra had yet to see it.

The spy fingered the phase device pinned to the collar of his undercover disguise, a tan delivery uniform. Dolgra gauged the distance between himself and Groteg. He noted which obstacles he could quickly dash to and put between them, mentally preparing himself for the attack that might come.

He deactivated the phase keeping him invisible. Groteg alerted at once to his sudden appearance. Haven’s security head shot to his feet, fangs down and showing. Every tendon and sinew stood out on impressive muscles left bare by his sleeveless armored uniform.

His glare lasted barely a second before he eased. He shook his head at Dolgra. “Gets me every time.”

“Sorry. I’m no fan of people unphasing in my presence either.” Dolgra’s apology was genuine. It was shocking to have someone abruptly appear out of thin air.

“You can’t warn me first?” To give him credit, Groteg sounded only slightly grumpy.

“Maybe I can toss a small object on your desk to give you a heads-up in the future. It’ll still be abrupt, but at least it won’t trigger you tearing my head off.” Dolgra grinned.

“I make you nervous? I’ll take it as a consolation prize. Door, lock.” He returned the smile and motioned to the hover chair in front of his desk. “I assume you’d prefer to keep this visit secret, or you wouldn’t have crept in here phased.”

“As usual.” Dolgra took the offered chair. The urge to indulge in small talk was resolutely quashed. “I read your report on the stalker at Nobek Detodev’s home.”

“Connelly was hoping to personally question O’Neal first thing this morning, but my Earther counterpart experienced shuttle problems. He’ll grill him this afternoon instead. Anything from your contacts?”

Dolgra nodded. “O’Neal’s from Mercy. His real name’s Kelly Kirk.”

“An alias?” Groteg scowled. “I’m surprised he got through Connelly’s department using false credentials. They’re pretty thorough. Connelly’s no slouch when it comes to keeping Earthtiques off Haven.”

“Remember, Kirk got here about seven years ago.”

“Before Connelly became chief about seven years ago. Good, his reputation’s intact.”

“It might not have mattered. Kirk’s documentation was spotless. I inspected it myself, since he came from Mercy. It took real digging to find his actual identity.”

“You looked through the Earther department’s records?” Groteg regarded him with no show of emotion.

“I always keep an eye on those coming from Mercy and New Bethlehem, due to the political leanings there.”

Groteg showed no real reaction to Dolgra’s snooping. He was aware the spy had clandestine access to the human half of Haven’s security force, and he kept his mouth shut about it. As a matter of fact, he’d never asked Dolgra for any information when investigating cases involving Earthers. It would have been unethical as well as illegal to do so. In Dolgra’s experience, it hadn’t stopped plenty of law enforcement supervisors from pushing for intel when they’d known they were dealing with Kalquor’s spy division.

He'd once mentioned the fact to Groteg. The Nobek’s response had been, “If I had a major problem, such as a serial killer or child abductor, I might appeal to you for information. To my mind, such dangerous situations supersede bureaucratic bullshit. But for regular law enforcement, it wouldn’t be right.”

Dolgra had discovered much to respect when it came to the Nobek. Every time they spoke, he found more to like.

He resumed his update on the would-be attacker. “On Mercy, Kirk had connections with lower-level Earthtiques. Mostly town-level militia groups who liked to intimidate those of a more tolerant mindset when it came to aliens, lifestyles, and so on. He’d been jailed on several occasions for threats. Twice for minor assault.”

Groteg considered. “From my limited experience in his company, he didn’t seem smart enough to pick up on Charity’s identity. It seems unlikely he showed up seven years ago to wait this long to attack those who live in opposition to his beliefs.”

“He also doesn’t match the physical description Matara Charity gave of her assailant in the barn.”

“It means he’s working for someone else on behalf of Mercy’s Earthtique faction. Maybe his accomplice told him to spy on her. Kirk must have decided to act on his own when the evening turned friendlier between her and her companions.” Groteg scowled. “It means we have at least one other person after her. Someone who operates better under our radar.”

Dolgra nodded. “My thoughts exactly. I think we have to get Charity off Haven.”

“What? Where else can she go?” Groteg’s shock was obvious as he kept speaking rather than allowing Dolgra to respond. “Dark Death is running amuck on Earth. The Darks have accessed the rest of the Kalquorian Empire and our home world. They could get to her there. Those bastards leaked the vid footage of Copeland and spread the intel General Borey Nath is alive and well, which set this whole mess off.”

Again, Groteg impressed Dolgra. Charity Nath had been dumped on him with little notice. She’d been staying at his farm for a matter of days, yet he was already fiercely protective of her. He was a true Nobek, eager to fight for the safety of the vulnerable.

Fighting off the smile that would have been inappropriate given their conversation, he said, “We concocted a last contingency in case she was identified again. I’ll ask the fleet to send a ship. She’ll have to live on it, and they won’t dock anywhere until the heat is off.”

Groteg stared at him. “You could be talking years, her traveling around in such a manner. As long as Browning Copeland lives, if not longer. She isn’t a Coydidak.” He named the group of Kalquorians who roamed the galaxy endlessly in their ragtag vessels, a sometimes lawless bunch who refused to live by society’s dictates. “Do you really expect her to put her life on hold for an indefinite period?”

“She’ll be alive. I see no alternative. She has to leave Haven.”

The Nobek snorted. “You’re forgetting an important detail, Dolgra.”

“Which is?”

“Though Charity isn’t thrilled about being stuck on an agricultural planet, it’s clear she’s getting close to those three young men. She’s invested in them beyond a simple fling. I don’t think she realizes it yet, but she will if she’s told she has to leave.”

“She didn’t want to come here, but she did when we told her to. She understands her well-being depends on our protection,” the spy pointed out.

“That may be, but I think she’s decided she’ll no longer allow your division to tell her what to do. She’s an adult, and she’s hit her limit when it comes to hiding. Don’t be surprised if she tells you she isn’t going anywhere.”

Dolgra groaned in the face of Groteg’s certainty. Charity could legally refuse to leave Haven if she decided to do so.

She was also the sister of Clan Piras’ Matara. Admiral Piras was a big deal in the spy division’s hierarchy. It would be Dolgra’s career…hell, it would be his ass…if anything happened to Charity on his watch. Piras was a legend as the last man in existence to piss off.

“Can I work for you if this goes to hell? And if I somehow survive the Terror of the Fleet’s wrath?”

Groteg chuckled in sympathy for his predicament.

* * * *

Ilid wondered if he made too big a deal out of what couldn’t possibly interest his new friends. He ushered them in the bakery his parent clan had messaged they’d closed the sale on the evening before. He felt pride at the work he and his family had done once the contract had been agreed to. The former owner had permitted to them to start updating the facility prior to the final legal approval to be issued by Haven’s governors.

The bakery’s new pastel color scheme of sky blue, sage green, and buttery yellow was soothing but far from boring. The seating areas varied from upholstered loungers, chairs one could sink in, billowing floor cushions, and sturdy chairs around intimate tables. Artwork hadn’t been hung yet, but Ilid had explained it would represent local artists and would be for sale.

Every surface gleamed. A quarter of the new appliances had already been installed. It took no imagination to realize how the bakery would appear when the updates were completed. The windows looked out on the street, but plans were in place to build a patio enclosed by a low wall and flowering plantings. It wouldn’t merely be a bakery but a space to linger with friends.

“I’m scheduling an appointment to talk to the coffee shop across the street to set up a station in here. Their product is excellent,” Ilid enthused as they paused just inside the door. The group gawked in open admiration of the changes that had been implemented. “They don’t offer much in the way of Kalquorian baked goods, so I’m hoping to offer a trade. There’s no sense competing against a potential partner if we can benefit each other instead.”

“Smart,” Detodev acknowledged. “A lot of us drink coffee and tea now. Being able to stop in one spot to buy the best of both worlds would make a lot of people happy. Especially if the line is moving faster at one location.”

“Hey, you could do my sales pitch for me.”

Detodev grinned. Ilid was struck by the change in the reticent Nobek from when they’d first met. He felt different himself, having been accepted by his companions despite his flaws as a Dramok.

His future felt the most hopeful it had been since his horrific encounter with the Darks. He could actually imagine having a clan. Mitag had especially made it clear he was eager for clanmates. Maybe they could win Detodev too, given the Nobek had similar issues of unworthiness.

The pit of Ilid’s stomach ached when he glanced at Charity. She saw no future for herself on Haven. She hated the planet and craved the excitement of the city. He couldn’t blame her. He’d felt the same restless energy prior to his encounter with the Darks.

Perhaps he was foolish to consider his three companions as the perfect clan for himself, especially where she was concerned. It was damned hard to imagine another woman who could match her for wit, charm, and intelligence, wrapped in one lovely package. If only he could offer her something worthwhile to make her stay.

You can’t ask her to give up her education or career to live where she won’t be happy. Enjoy her while she’s here. Don’t allow regrets to ruin what you have while you have it.

He set aside the yearning threatening to darken his mood as his parents came from the kitchen area at the rear of the building. They exclaimed in delight to see the young people and immediately made a fuss over them.

“How wonderful you’ve come,” Imdiko Jadel enthused after greetings were exchanged. “What do you think of our latest enterprise?”

“The bakery already looks fantastic,” Charity told them. “When do you think it’ll open?”

“Well, manager?” Ilid’s mother beamed at him.

He grinned back. “I think we can have the equipment ready to go in two weeks. Leaving room for unforeseen delays and promotion…a month?”

Mitag whipped his handheld from a pouch on his belt and tapped. “I have an opening in four weeks, thanks to a last-minute cancellation. A groom got cold feet. Really cold feet. He left a note breaking it off and disappeared from town.”

“Yikes,” Charity said. “The bride must be upset.”

“I hear she’s already dating his best man. The deposit for my services is nonrefundable, so little harm’s done where my account is concerned. How does this date work for you to schedule a grand opening celebration, Ilid?” Mitag waved his calendar in the Dramok’s face.

“It depends on the cost.” Mitag’s services were in demand, and clients were willing to pay premium prices. No doubt he had patrons clamoring for the suddenly empty slot.

“For you, it’s free.”

Ilid blinked at him. “You can’t.”

“It’s my business, so yeah, I can. You talked about a trade with the coffee shop. We should do a trade too.” Mitag continued to tap his handheld.

“How?”

“You said your equipment will be up and running in two weeks? Let’s get together on when you can bake samples for me to hold tastings for upcoming potential clients. A Kalquorian bakery fits my needs for a number of events this upcoming season, so you couldn’t open at a better time.”

“Um, okay.” Ilid wondered if he should feel bad for preferential treatment. After all, Mitag might be doing so simply because they had the potential for becoming clanmates. Ilid would have to prove he was worthy of the Imdiko taking the chance on his work.

If Diju thought the same, she obviously didn’t mind. She clapped her hands gleefully. “It appears Ilid’s Bakery is up and running at full steam before it’s even opened.”

“ Ilid’s Bakery?” He gaped at his mother.

“Well, you’ll inherit it in the end. Unless you’re as successful as I’m sure you’ll be and buy me out first. Or, if an important event comes up to celebrate in the future, the business would make a nice gift.” She glanced at Detodev, Mitag, and Charity, then exchanged glances with his smiling fathers. She giggled.

Realization swept over Ilid. She’d plotted to let him have the bakery all along and was dangling it as a clanning gift. He looked at Detodev, Mitag, and Charity in turn to see if they’d caught the manipulation.

Detodev had. He was regarding Ilid from the corner of his eye, his brow raised. His lips trembled, as if holding off laughter. At least he wasn’t wearing a expression of horror at the idea.

Mitag was still pounding on his handheld. He wore a slight smile, but Ilid couldn’t tell if it was because he’d understood what Diju was up to.

Charity was taking in their surroundings, giving no indication she’d heard the subtext. “This is a terrific gift. And your name on it. Pretty sweet deal, Ilid.”

It would be sweeter if you were part of it. Ilid brushed aside the regret and bowed in respect to his parent clan. “I’ll do my best to reward your faith in me. Thank you for such an amazing opportunity.”

Charity didn’t dare look at the others. She was afraid they’d see the longing that had sprung up unbidden in her heart.

… if an important event comes up to celebrate sometime in the future…

It didn’t take a rocket scientist, or even an astronomy student, to know Diju was up to her usual matchmaking tricks. Charity often found it amusing how eager she, and to an extent Ilid’s fathers, were to win him clanmates. It was as if they thought love and lifelong companionship would heal the hurts he’d suffered.

Maybe they were right. He’d been brighter since the night before. Not necessarily because of the amorous activities they’d indulged in. No, the catalyst had come from revealing his trials thanks to his Dark encounter and being given nonjudgmental compassion and understanding from his new friends.

He’d returned it to them in equal measure. Charity could see the darkness had lifted substantially from Detodev. The sense of Mitag’s desperate need for close companionship had eased as well, taking him from overeagerness to a laidback warmth. Her own guilt for lying about her true identity had been absolved.

She could see the three men becoming a clan. It felt right they should do so, even at this early stage. Charity had heard of people seeing “the one” and knowing right away they’d be married. She wondered if anyone had ever noticed it for others as she felt she had for Ilid, Mitag, and Detodev.

She was shocked to find she yearned for it too. They teased her for her impulsive nature, for her often exasperating mischief, and a capriciousness her own family had found irritating. They accepted her as she was.

They wouldn’t run off on me to save the universe. It was another draw for Charity. She was proud of her father and sister for their selfless giving to the cause of stopping those who’d destroy the innocent. She respected and loved her family for their devotion to justice. But it had left her alone far too many times.

A baker. An event planner. A farmhand. They weren’t glamorous men. They weren’t interested in performing great deeds to change the galaxy. Nevertheless, they were each heroic in their own way, men who’d survived pasts determined to break them. More importantly, they were here . They had no intention of going anywhere.

But Haven? Planet Farm Hell? You can’t be considering it.

Chapter Seventeen

Detodev felt amused chagrin as Mitag stopped in front of a shop’s window in the middle of Sunrise. Given the day off by parents, guardians, and supervisors, the young people had decided to wander and goof off. They had no particular plans in mind.

The store in question boasted men’s dress clothes, for both Kalquorians and Earthers. Mitag had his eyes on a teal tunic-style embroidered jacket and pants set. “This would be nice for our theater night. Besides, I deserve something new for getting through tomorrow’s haybale wedding reception.”

The Nobek thought of his modest account and the less-than-dressy state of his wardrobe. “How fancy are we supposed to be for the show?”

“A chance to dress up? I’m in,” Charity declared.

Mitag grinned, no doubt noting Detodev’s growing concern. “Don’t go by our example. I’d dress up for a feed store’s grand opening. I’ll take any excuse for a new outfit. This is Sunrise. Wear your best jeans and a clean shirt.”

“What are you wearing?” Detodev asked Ilid. He didn’t want to be too casual if everyone else was fancy. He did have one nice shirt and a decent pair of black slacks he used for the occasional wedding, clanning ceremony, or funeral.

“I suppose I can wear the dress trousers I brought so I don’t feel too underdressed in the company of these two. I don’t have a jacket. I could get one, but if you’re going casual, I’ll skip it for now.” The Dramok shrugged, his attitude unconcerned.

“I’ll definitely be dressed casual.” Detodev was relieved, both that he wouldn’t have to dress up and he wouldn’t be the only one.

Mitag couldn’t resist teasing him. “I can come by your house and help you clean up beforehand. You might be a pacifist, but you’re still an uncouth Nobek.”

“Oh, sign me up for clean-up duty,” Charity snickered. She grabbed Detodev’s ass as she walked past to go in the shop.

Detodev rolled his eyes. However, as the group entered the store for Mitag to claim the suit he was salivating over, he caught the Imdiko by the arm. Since Charity and Ilid preceded them in, they failed to notice him leaning in close to whisper in his surprised friend’s ear. “Thank you.”

Mitag blinked at him, his smile uncertain. “Why are you thanking me?”

“You refused to give up on this standoffish Nobek. Most would have.”

The Imdiko bumped against him affectionately. “Most don’t have the sense to look beneath the exterior to find buried treasure. I’m a smart guy, in case you haven’t noticed.”

Detodev’s cheeks ached a little. He’d been smiling a lot in the last few hours, and his face wasn’t used to it. Mitag was smart, all right. Too smart to act mushy at Detodev’s admission, which would have made him self-conscious. Smart enough to hide a compliment in a joke.

Detodev squeezed his arm and stepped away. He retreated into his typical comfortable distance but remained close to those whom he regarded with growing warmth.

* * * *

Groteg entered his office stomping, his expression thunderous. He ordered his door closed and locked.

A silver ring appeared in midair, flying toward his shoulder. He caught it, recognizing it and the blue sapphire in its setting. He wasn’t surprised when Dolgra unphased next to his desk.

“You said it was urgent,” the spy said.

“Kelly Kirk, a.k.a. Scott O’Neal, was found dead when his lunch was delivered to his containment cell,” Groteg tossed the ring back to his visitor, fuming. “Initial tests indicate syntranide poisoning.”

“Fast and lethal in miniscule doses. He could have hidden it in on himself where it would have evaded a search,” Dolgra mused. “ If he were the type to commit suicide.”

Groteg’s fury at having lost an important witness quieted at the unspoken suspicion he shared. “You also believe he was killed to keep him quiet?”

“I’ve been through the Earther security roster, specifically those in Sunrise. Half the officers lived on Mercy or New Bethlehem at some point. All have been in the Earther police headquarters since Kirk was brought in.”

“Most of the officers now employed asserted they were at odds with the Earthtique bent of Mercy’s and New Bethlehem’s leadership.” Groteg recognized it for the convenient excuse it would have been. “A law enforcement career for an Earthtique would afford plenty of opportunities to gather information on Haven’s residents. Connelly recognized the issue. He said he’d thoroughly investigated each and every candidate.”

“If anyone came here to spy within law enforcement on behalf of Earthtique governments, they could have laid the groundwork carefully to get an operative through the process. I’m going to investigate the entire bunch. Given Matara Charity’s description of her first assailant, I’ll start with those of Kalquorian size. Maybe from the top down.”

Dolgra’s plan made sense, but Groteg pointed out, “Assistant Chief Wilkes has never shown signs of being an Earthtique. I can’t tell you how many clannings between our species he’s attended, along with other Kalquorian-centric functions.”

“If you’re vouching for him, I’ll save him for last. I’m leaving no stone unturned now that our one connection to those hunting Matara Charity is dead. If I have to look closely at Wilkes, I will.” Dolgra disappeared before Groteg could answer.

The Nobek had no problem with that despite his surety the spy would be wasting his time investigating certain members of Connelly’s staff. He approved of the man’s thoroughness. Dolgra certainly knew his business.

He’s the epitome of a Dramok. Groteg snorted at the intense camaraderie he usually experienced when Dolgra showed up. Dismissing the momentary yearning for a clan leader as steady as Amgar had been, he directed his attention to his own work.

* * * *

“Hi, Assistant Chief Wilkes,” Charity called to the passing officer as she and the guys relaxed with beverages in front of the coffee shop. They’d loaded up on caffeine after Ilid had secured an appointment to discuss his business trade with the shop’s friendly owner.

Wilkes stopped and beamed at the group. “Good afternoon, all. Enjoying the day?”

They answered in the affirmative. Charity thought the officer appeared troubled despite his cheerful response. His tone sounded forced.

“Everything okay?” She wondered if the Kalquorian-big bruiser appreciated such niceties. His strong features were more brutish than a number of Nobeks she’d come across.

“It could be better,” he sighed. “O’Neal…the man who was caught spying on you? He committed suicide this morning.”

Only Detodev failed to gasp. The Nobek’s eyes widened in shock, however.

“I’m sorry to hear it,” Ilid managed. “We were hoping for answers for his actions rather than him coming to harm.”

“A troubled man.” Wilkes stared at the street, his expression regretful. “He’d been brought in for minor offenses in the past, but he never showed any inclination for serious mischief. I guess you never know the thoughts in a person’s head.”

“Wow. Does he have family here? They must be devastated,” Charity said.

“Maybe on Mercy, where he came from. We’ve sent inquiries. Since they’re in a rather messy state these days, it could be a while before we know for certain.” He drew a deep breath as if to set aside the unpleasantness. His smile when he gazed at them again was genuine. “What’s on the agenda? Detodev, I almost never see you in town during the day.”

When the Nobek merely shrugged, his usual reserve kicking in, Mitag answered. “We dragged Mr. Sociable out for a day off. I almost convinced him to buy a nice shirt for tomorrow’s show.”

“I already have a nice shirt,” Detodev muttered.

“Oh, you’re attending Cow Patties in Paradise ? I’ve heard it’s hilarious.” Wilkes glanced down the street in the direction of the two-story theater.

“It looks like fun,” Ilid agreed.

“I might have to see it myself, if any tickets are left. I’ll leave you to it, then. Have a good day.” Wilkes nodded and continued down the street, his steps quicker and demeanor lighter than before.

Charity watched him go. Big guy. It reminded her of the size of her attacker in the barn. Wilkes would have been scary if he hadn’t spoken to them with such friendly ease and no sign of judgment. If three Kalquorian men hanging around an Earther woman offended him, he hid it well.

“It’s wonderful to be around so many non-Earthtique types,” she marveled. “Haven is a different world in the best way possible.”

“Despite the lack of culture and predominance of natural fertilizer?” Mitag teased.

She tossed her napkin at him. “No place is all bad. Or all good, for that matter. As accepting as the university on Jedver was of diversity, thanks to it being in Galactic Council space, I occasionally ran into anti-Kalquorian types among my fellow Earthers. Some were obnoxious to other species too, holding onto Old Earth’s crap about being ‘God’s Chosen.’”

“I’m glad you aren’t among those kinds of people,” Ilid said.

At the looks they gave her, crazy longing filled Charity again. She covered it by smirking and speaking in a flippant tone. “I think I’m becoming quite the Kalquoriphile.”

Charity and the gang were beginning to talk dinner plans late in the afternoon when she received a message from Nobek Groteg. He insisted she return to the farm for dinner. Because he made no mention of the men being invited, she grouched, “I guess you’ll have to do what you can to have fun in my absence.” She flung the back of her hand to her forehead for melodrama’s sake. “I must leave you. Go on without me, if you can manage.”

“It won’t be easy,” Ilid said, his palm to his heart and expression woebegone as the others chuckled. More seriously, he added, “I guess we can’t be too greedy, having enjoyed last night and today together.”

“Ha! Greedy is my calling card.” Mitag playfully pawed at Charity’s shoulder. “I’ll be plotting how to steal you as soon as possible.”

“You do that,” she grinned.

Too soon, she was walking in the back door to find Sara and Groteg in the kitchen waiting. She could hear Utber elsewhere in the house telling James to “wash those grubby hands now, or I’ll wash them for you.”

“Spaghetti?” The delightful scent eased a small portion of Charity’s regret she wasn’t having dinner in the company of her friends instead. Impulsively, she hugged Sara. “It smells divine. Thanks so much for the day off to play. Oh, and for bringing us breakfast. Best day ever in a long while.”

“I’m glad.” Sara hugged her in return, but her expression was cautious. The manner in which her gaze darted to Groteg warned Charity all wasn’t well.

The Nobek wasted no time getting to the nitty-gritty. “The man who was spying on you last night is dead.”

“I heard. Suicide.”

“Maybe.” Groteg’s expression was dark.

Charity’s heart skipped a beat. “Assistant Chief Wilkes seemed pretty sure.”

“He would have presented such an attitude because you’re a civilian and he preferred you not to worry.” Groteg’s demeanor eased into sympathy. “I wish I could do the same, but some of us are concerned Kelly Kirk…O’Neal’s real name…wasn’t acting alone. He certainly doesn’t fit the description of the man who came for you on our property.”

“You think his co-conspirator took him out to silence him?”

“It’s the theory we’re working from.”

“He would have to be in law enforcement to get to him in his cell.” Charity’s blood chilled. She thought of Wilkes…but he was so nice. Perhaps there were others in his department who were the size of her assailant.

“Who knows how many are involved in trying to abduct you? Or if they’re acting independently or as a group?” Groteg drew a deep breath. “Charity, Kalquor believes you’re in too much danger on Haven. They plan to transfer you so you’ll be safe.”

Anger sparked. Not at Groteg, though his was the voice speaking the last thing she wanted to hear. Reminding herself he was only the messenger for the spy network trying to keep her free of Earthtique hands, she maintained a steady tone. “I was supposed to be protected here.”

“You were, but they’ve caught on to your whereabouts. I’m sorry.”

He sounded sincere. Charity had no reason to believe he wasn’t. Nonetheless, as far as she could tell, those who’d promised to protect her were no closer to stopping bounty hunters and Earthtiques from trying to abduct her. Was she supposed to spend the rest of her life racing from station to planet to moon, under constant fear of being hurt?

She agonized over more than the seeming hopelessness of the situation. The faces of Ilid, Mitag, and Detodev swam in her mind’s eye. Her chest tightened at the thought of leaving them behind, for who knew how long? She’d begun to experience a sense of belonging, of connection after an extended season of loss. She’d found three men she genuinely cared for. Hell, she’d gotten invested in Clan Amgar and their children too.

She needed to think it through. Playing for a minute or two, she asked in her most reasonable tone, “Where could Kalquor send me that’s absolutely secure from the nutters?”

“The idea is nowhere is safe. A ship constantly on the move—”

“Oh, hell no.” Her fury and despair burst forth in a near shout. “Are you insane? Has the empire lost its mind? No, Groteg. Fuck no. I won’t live on a ship again.” Memories of the Sword of Truth crashed upon her.

“Charity—” Sara started, her features full of sympathy and concern.

“No. You can throw me from your house, but I won’t leave Haven. I’ll camp in the damned woods before anyone imprisons me on a ship for a single day.”

“We aren’t putting you out of the house.” Sara shot a warning glare at her clanmate despite his darkening face.

“Why’s Jennifer mad?” James’ call reached her ears from wherever he was in the house.

Charity lowered her voice for the kids’ sake, but she lost none of her intensity as she stared Groteg in the eye. “I’m legally an adult. It’s my call, and I’m telling you I’m done running all over the galaxy from these assholes.”

“They won’t treat you kindly if they catch you,” the Nobek warned between gritted teeth.

“You think I don’t know it? I already lived under the not-so-tender mercies of Browning Copeland himself. My father was forced to do unspeakable things for him while he searched for a way to stop the bastard. I’m aware of exactly what those monsters are capable of.”

They stood glaring at each other for a at least a minute. Groteg finally growled, “You’re going. It’s the only way.”

“You’ll have to tie me up, maybe hurt me to make it happen,” she promised. “I won’t go without a fight, Groteg. Count on it.”

He swelled like a tick, his frustration on the brink of overwhelming him. Rather than give in to it, he stormed out, leaving the two women. Sara stepped close and squeezed Charity’s arm. “He’s frightened for you.”

“I’m scared too, but I can’t do this the rest of my life. I’ll find another place to stay. Maybe Mitag will take me in. Not Detodev…I won’t put him at odds with your clan.”

Sara shook her head. “I won’t hear of it. If you can convince Groteg and the powers that be to let you remain, I want you where I can see you’re okay.”

I belong. Tears prickled Charity’s eyes. “My presence puts you and the kids at risk. I can’t endanger your family.”

“I took you in my home. You’re an adult, but you’re one of us now.” Sara was adamant in her conviction. “You stay on Haven, you stay here.”

Charity threw herself in the older woman’s arms. She let the tears of heartbreak and gratitude fall.

* * * *

In her bedroom, Charity sent a com message to the guys. If you’re still together, com back asap. If not, let’s set up a group session.

Ilid’s frequency buzzed her unit seconds later. “We’re at Mitag’s. What’s up?”

She reported the conversation she’d had with Groteg. “I told him I wouldn’t leave. I can’t run forever.” She didn’t add the trio were a huge part of the equation holding her on Haven. She still had to examine her feelings on the matter, but she needed to square away the question of her departure first.

“I’d hate it if you left, but if you have multiple people coming for you…” Ilid wavered. “Detodev, give us your take on the situation.”

“Her safety comes first,” the Nobek said after a couple seconds’ pause. “The emotional toll of the constant changes in location have to be taken into account too, however.”

“Not just location,” she admitted. “I keep losing people I care for. If I agree to board this ship on which they’d send on a never-ending voyage, I won’t be able to speak to you for fear of my whereabouts being traced. I don’t…I’m not ready to lose you guys.”

Another lengthy pause. Ilid spoke again. “Charity, I can hear how desperate you feel about the matter. It’s a question of your emotional well-being besides your physical safety. Groteg must consider that angle.”

“Then let’s figure something out,” Mitag urged. “We were able to stop the guy outside Detodev’s house. We can watch for trouble.”

“Maybe we can help Groteg guard you so you can remain on Haven,” Detodev agreed. “You can stay close to me in the fields during the day. If Sara agrees, I’ll teach you the work I do. You’ve already proved you’re a quick learner and capable. At night, the three of us can stick close to you.”

“I’m willing,” Ilid said. “She can spend some days at the bakery helping me, if she wishes. My parents will be on Haven until after the grand opening. Any bounty hunters who dare my father Gruthep would have their asses handed to them in a hurry.”

“I may be an Imdiko who likes to dress nice and throw fancy parties, but I don’t mind kicking ass when the occasion calls for it,” Mitag asserted.

Tears streamed down Charity’s cheeks as they rallied to her cause. “I can’t have any of you hurt because of me. I couldn’t stand it as much as I can’t stand to leave.”

“Don’t worry about us,” Ilid said. “We’ve each visited hell and made it through. For you, any threat would be worth it.”

Her heart stuttered at the feeling in his tone, then again when Mitag said, “More than worth it.”

Detodev didn’t add his agreement to protect her at all costs. Charity hadn’t expected him to. Playing bodyguard meant him confronting the rage he feared he had no control over should her enemies pay a visit.

When his strong, determined voice abruptly broke the silence following the other men’s insistence, she nearly dropped her com in shock. “I’ll be here for you, and I’ll keep you safe. I promise it on any honor I can claim to have. I’ll tell Groteg myself you don’t need to go.”

Her heart threatened to burst. She couldn’t leave now. Not when she had such amazing people ready to remain at her side. People who showed no sign of disappearing.

Chapter Eighteen

Charity managed to avoid talking to Groteg the rest of the evening. She made it a point to hang out with Tori. They did their hair and nails and gossiped. When the Nobek dared to show his face at his daughter’s open bedroom door, Tori imperiously called, “Away, foul male creature! It’s girl time.” She grinned at Charity when he scowled but slunk off. The adolescent’s conspiratorial smirk clued her in on Tori’s realization Charity and Groteg were on the outs. To give Tori credit, she didn’t ask for information. Charity wondered how much of her situation the girl was aware of.

She wasn’t so lucky the next morning when Utber left for work and the kids for school. The children’s and their Imdiko father’s voices had barely faded when Groteg’s steady gaze stabbed at her. “It’s been arranged for you to evacuate quietly tomorrow morning.”

“Un-arrange it. I’m of age and can’t be forced to go if I don’t want to. I have no intention of leaving Haven.”

“Those in charge have other ideas on whether or not you can be made to go.”

“As I said, it’ll be against my will, and I’ll fight. I mean it, Groteg. There are plenty of shovels and heavy tools around for me to swing. I sharpened these just for the occasion.” She showed him her red-lacquered nails, filed nearly to points.

“Your life is in danger.”

“Thank you for pointing out it’s my life, which means it’s my choice.” Her tone softened, and she gazed at the bristling Nobek with undisguised affection. “I realize this isn’t a matter of you personally worrying you’ll be held legally accountable if I’m abducted or killed. You care, and I adore you for it, Groteg.”

He reddened. His mouth opened, then snapped shut.

She continued. “I’d hate for you to get in trouble if the worst happens. If there’s a form I can sign and have notarized stating I absolve the Kalquorian Empire, its fleet, you, and Haven of all responsibility for my choice to remain, I’ll gladly sign it.”

He managed to speak through gritted teeth. “I absolutely don’t care about the accountability, which is why I’ll throw you on the damned ship myself—”

A knock at the back door interrupted him. Sara, who’d been watching the confrontation from the sink, answered it. “Good morning, Detodev.”

“Good morning, Matara Sara.” His voice was soft, and he bowed deeply to her before stepping in. He took in Charity and Groteg standing across the kitchen table from each other, their resolute stares betraying their disagreement.

“It isn’t just up to you to maintain her safety, Nobek Groteg.” Detodev accorded another respectful bow. “Ilid, Mitag, and myself are eager to do whatever it takes to protect Charity.”

“ You .” At Detodev’s wince, Groteg added, “You know I accept your pacifist views, young Nobek, despite disagreeing on our breed’s true nature. I have to challenge your determination to never give in to the need to fight. How can you possibly safeguard my ward if you adhere to your vow?”

“I believe our breed uses the excuse of its categorization to resort to violence too readily.” Detodev maintained a respectful though unwavering tone. “I’ve thought through my encounter with the man apprehended outside my home. It failed to end in me tearing out his throat, much as the urge insisted. I believe my fear of losing myself to such violence will stop me from doing so. I can keep Charity protected from her enemies. Ilid and Mitag are equally committed to the same outcome.”

“Then convince her to leave Haven, damn you!” Groteg’s shout was accompanied by his fist slamming the tabletop. His fierce countenance eased a touch when Sara jumped. After shooting her an apologetic glance, he told Detodev, “It’s the only way to guarantee her security. Don’t you realize these assholes will continue coming?”