5. Sabrina

When the door slams behind Zarek as he exited the chamber, it took a moment before I was able to breathe a sigh of relief. Clearly Zarek's interrogation was over for the time being, I wasn't sure what just happened.

With him gone now, I can't help but feel a strange mixture of relief and disappointment. The goblin king is intense, but there's something about him which draws me in. I want to know more.

His touch ignites a fire within me, and the thought of what might have happened if the guards hadn't interrupted us leaves me flushed and aching. I pull against my bonds, but they hold firm. I should feel more vulnerable being naked, but my denied orgasm keeps me running hot.

As time ticks by, the reality of my situation sets in. Is there any hope of me getting back to the outpost? Back to safety and familiarity? Back to lonely study with only journals for company.

The door swings open, and Zarek enters the chamber, his emerald eyes glowing brighter than I've seen them previously. A strange, almost hungry, look crosses his features, and my heart skips a beat.

"Sabrina," he rasps, his voice sending a shiver of anticipation down my spine. "I have returned with an important announcement."

I meet his gaze steadily, trying to hide my nervousness. "I'm listening," I say, keeping my voice even as I try to ignore the fact that I'm naked.

"Two days hence, we will wed," he declares with a grin.

For a moment, his words don't register. I stare at him, uncomprehending.

"Married?" I blurt. "As in, husband and wife? You and me?"

Zarek lets out a booming laugh, his eyes gleaming with smug amusement. "Do try to keep up, my dear. Of course, you and I—the esteemed goblin king and his newly acquired human prize. Who else would I be referring to?"

He steps closer, crowding into my personal space, and I have to resist the urge to pull back even as he releases me from the chains currently binding me. Zarek's sheer size and dominating presence are utterly overwhelming.

"You should be honored," he purrs, his tone dripping with arrogance. "You will be the female to have the privilege of becoming the queen consort to the mighty goblin ruler." He reaches out, trailing a clawed finger down my cheek, his touch heating my core. "Though I suppose I can't fault your surprise. I imagine the idea of mating with me, the goblin king, is quite... novel for you."

Zarek leans in even closer, his warm breath fanning across my face. "But trust me, my little human," he murmurs, his voice low and rumbling. "By the time our wedding night is over, you'll be begging me for more."

I swallow hard, my pulse quickening. What the hell is he thinking? Is this another one of his interrogation tactics? I'm married to my studies! My career! Not some alien king. But this is ridiculous! We don't know each other! He had me in chains just a short while ago. He tortured me... even if I enjoyed that last bit. How can I possibly marry him?

Zarek's claws trace along my jawline, sending a wave of heat through my body. His eyes are hooded with desire, his breath hot against my skin.

"Zarek, this is insane. You barely know me, and I have a career, a life, back home. Not to mention you just tortured me!"

Zarek lets out a deep, rumbling laugh that sends shivers down my spine. "Tortured you?" He leans in closer, his lips almost brushing against mine. "My dear Sabrina, that was merely a... taste of what's to come."

He pulls back slightly, his gaze roaming over my body in a way which feels possessive. "As for knowing you, that's precisely why we're to be wed. I intend to learn every inch of you, inside and out." His lips curve into a wicked grin. "And trust me, before our wedding day arrives, you'll be begging me to make you my queen."

I open my mouth to protest, but Zarek silences me with a firm press of his finger against my lips. "Hush, my little human. Your protests only serve to amuse me." His eyes narrow, a predatory gleam in their depths.

Zarek's fingers cup my chin, forcing me to meet his gaze. "You are mine, Sabrina. From the moment you set foot in my domain, you were mine. I have made my decision. You will be my queen."

"Don't I get a say in this?" Zarek's grip tightens on my chin for a moment before he releases me, a low growl rumbling in his chest. In one swift motion, he scoops me up over his shoulder, my naked body exposed to the cool air of the chamber. I let out a surprised yelp, my heart pounding in my chest as I hang upside down, my world turned quite literally on its head.

"Enough talking," he declares, his voice echoing through the chamber. "You need to see your kingdom... as soon as you put on some clothes."

I can't help but feel a thrill at his words, even as I squirm in his grip, trying to cover myself. This is insane, I think to myself. I can't marry him—I won't. I'll figure it out. But the thought of seeing more of this alien world, of learning more about its people and their culture, is intoxicating.

Zarek calls out to his servants, ordering them to bring suitable clothes for his bride and a hot meal. He strides out of the chamber, my body bouncing on his shoulder with each step.

Despite my misgivings about the situation, I can't help but enjoy the feeling of being carried by Zarek. There's something primal, something raw, about the way he handles me, the way he takes control. But it's also frustrating. He's not listening to me, not taking my feelings into account. I have to make him understand.

He brings me to a lavish chamber... his bedchamber. I can tell it belongs to him by the heady scent, a blend of musk and spice uniquely him. A fire burns in the hearth, casting a warm glow across the room. I can make out ornate tapestries depicting scenes from the Goblin Empire, and an immense bed covered in silken sheets. On the bed is a stunning dress and a tray of food.

Zarek sets me down, his eyes never leaving mine. For a moment, we stand there, staring at each other. Perhaps our betrothal is still a shock to us both. His gaze is intense, his presence dominating, until he strides to the bed and holds out the dress.

"Put this on," he commands, his deep voice brooking no argument.

I hesitate, eyeing the gown warily. "And if I refuse?"

Zarek's lips curl into a smug smirk. "Then you shall go naked."

Swallowing hard, I take the dress from his hands, a blush creeping up my cheeks. As I slip it on, the purple silk glides over my skin, hugging my curves in a way that feels almost indecent. I glance down, biting my lip as I take in the plunging neckline. It fits perfectly. How? Are they using some kind of scanning tech to determine size, or is this a simple matter of guessing?

"How did you know my size?" I ask, narrowing my eyes at him.

Zarek's gaze rakes over me, his expression one of open appreciation. "I have my ways, little human." He chuckles, the sound low and rumbling. I will learn his secrets!

He motions to the table, where a sumptuous meal awaits. "Now eat. You'll need your strength for what's to come."

I hesitate, my stomach growling despite my discomfort. The enticing aromas of roasted meats and fresh bread are hard to resist. "And what, pray tell, is ‘to come'?" I ask, eyeing him warily.

Zarek's lips curve into a wicked grin. "Our wedding night, of course." He steps closer, closing the distance between us. "But first, I will show you your new kingdom."

Without breaking eye contact, he grabs a plate and begins piling it high with an assortment of savory dishes. The gesture is surprisingly tender, an unexpected softness in his otherwise domineering demeanor.

Holding the plate out to me, he murmurs, "Sit. Eat."

I glance at the offered food then back up at him, my heart fluttering. There's an intimacy to this moment that catches me off guard. Slowly, I sink into the plush chair by the crackling fireplace, my gaze never leaving his.

Zarek watches intently as I take the first bite, a satisfied gleam in his eyes as I savor the rich flavors. The food is exquisite, clearly prepared with care.

"It's... delicious," I admit, surprised.

Zarek nods, his expression unreadable. "I'm glad it pleases you." He leans in closer, his clawed fingers brushing against my arm.

I swallow hard, acutely aware of his proximity and the heat radiating from his powerful frame. His undeniable intensity is like a predatory hunger, which both terrifies and excites me.

As I continue eating, the silence between us grows charged with an underlying current of tension. I can't help but wonder what other surprises this enigmatic goblin king has in store for me.

When the last crumb is gone, Zarek sets the plate aside and leans back in his chair, watching me intently. The firelight casts his features in sharp relief, highlighting the sharp planes of his face.

"Zarek... we need to talk about this marriage business," I start.

Zarek frowns, a flicker of annoyance passing over his face. "It is not up for discussion. I am the goblin king, and you will be my queen. That is final."

I meet his gaze, trying to ignore the butterflies fluttering in my stomach. "You can't just order me to marry you, Zarek. That's not how this works. I have a life, a career, back in Orion."

Zarek rises from his chair, his emerald eyes burning with intensity. He steps toward me, his massive form towering over me. "Your life is here, with me. Your career is whatever I say it is."

I stand to meet him, but the difference in our statures makes me feel small. "No, I won't give up everything for you. I don't love you, Zarek."

His jaw clenches, the tension crackling between us. "Who mentioned anything about love?" he says, his voice rough. "Maybe in time we will learn to love each other, Sabrina. Come, let me show you the kingdom."

Before I can protest, he sweeps me up into his arms and carries me to the balcony. My heart races as he sets me down and gestures to the view below.

The city sprawls beneath and around us, a kaleidoscope of color and movement. Zarek's palm swipes over an embedded keypad and a floating vehicle pulls up to the edge of the balcony. It hovers hundreds of feet off the ground, and Zarek sweeps me into the passenger seat, a mischievous grin tugging at the corners of his lips.

As we soar over the city, Zarek points out landmarks and sights, his passion for his kingdom clear in his voice. I can't help but admire his enthusiasm and wonder if perhaps I could grow to love him. He shows me the location of a giant labyrinth, which I'm told is the ancient heart of the empire, a network of tunnels and caverns carved eons ago. Any questions I ask, he answers or promises to bring me to their ancient library to find out. The gesture warms me.

Zarek points out the royal gardens, where the most beautiful and rare flowers grow. He takes me to the Great Hall of Justice, a vast chamber where the king presides over matters of the empire. He tells me about the various clans, their histories and traditions. I can't help but be drawn in by his enthusiasm and passion for his people and their culture. I soak up every word, wishing only that I had some means to record his stories.

As the suns set—yes, there are two suns—we return to the palace. I'm exhausted, but Zarek's infectious excitement has left me eager to see more.

"Will you show me the library tomorrow?" I ask, trying to keep the hope from my voice.

Zarek chuckles, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "If you behave yourself."

We stand on the balcony, the warm breeze caressing my skin. I try to stifle a yawn, but Zarek notices. He wraps his arm around my shoulders, pulling me close to his muscular body. The warmth of his skin and the steady beat of his heart soothe me.

"Come, you're sleeping in my bed tonight," he says, his voice a deep rumble.

I can't deny sleep would be good, but I'm not sure I'm ready to leave his side. His presence is intoxicating. His touch sends waves of heat through my body. As much as I want to explore the city and learn more about the goblins, the idea of spending the night in Zarek's bed is too tempting to resist.

He scoops me into his arms and carries me back into his chamber, gently setting me on the soft silken sheets. I sink into the pillows, their scent a mixture of him and something delicious, like fresh-baked bread.

Zarek climbs onto the bed beside me, his body dwarfing mine. His heat radiates through the thin fabric of the gown, his hand sliding across my stomach.

"Sleep, my curious little human," he murmurs, his lips brushing against my ear.

A shiver runs down my spine, and I nestle closer to him, his arm wrapping protectively around me. I can't deny that the prospect of spending the night with him is appealing, but I'm not sure I'm ready to go that far. As much as I want him, there's still so much we need to learn about each other. But my heavy eyes tell a different story.

"Zarek," I murmur, the word tumbling from my lips.

"Yes?"

"I'm glad it was you."

He stiffens for a moment, then his grip on me tightens. "What do you mean?" he asks, his voice barely above a whisper.

I shift in his arms, my gaze meeting his. "Zarek... I'm glad that I breached your kingdom, that I found you. I don't know what will happen, or where this is going, but I'm glad we're doing it together."

"I'm glad I didn't send you to the boglands after all, like that last intruder," he whispers.

Zarek's hand slides down my back, his clawed fingers trailing across my skin, tracing the curve of my waist.

Goosebumps erupt all over my skin at his simple touch. I can feel his desire, his need for me as his body presses against mine. I know I should be afraid, but all I can feel is an overwhelming need to be close to him, to feel him inside me.

I tilt my head up, my lips brushing against his. He growls low in his throat, his tongue sliding into my mouth as he deepens the kiss. His hands roam over my body, exploring every curve, every dip, as if he's trying to memorize me.

My breath comes in ragged gasps, my body responding to his touch. I can feel my arousal building, the heat pooling between my thighs.

His claws catch on the fabric of my gown, tearing it away with a single swift motion. I gasp as the cool night air hits my skin, my nipples hardening under his gaze. He growls again, his eyes darkening with lust as he takes me in.

"So perfect," he rasps, his voice thick with desire.

My heart pounds in my chest, and a wave of pleasure washes over me. This should feel wrong. We barely know each other. But I can't bring myself to stop him. I need him.

Zarek's hand trails lower, his claws tracing circles on my stomach. I can feel my pussy aching for his touch, my body begging for him.

"Please," I whimper, my voice barely a whisper.

He smirks, his lips brushing against my ear. "You are not ready, not yet."

A frustrated moan escapes me, but he holds me firmly and lowers his head, his mouth closing around one of my nipples. I moan as he sucks and nips at the sensitive flesh, his claws digging into my hips as he holds me in place. I can feel his cock pressing against my thigh, hard and thick, and I can't help but wonder what it would feel like inside me.

"You're driving me crazy," I gasp, arching my back as his tongue flicks against my nipple.

He growls in response, his mouth moving to the other breast. He licks and sucks at my nipple, his teeth grazing the tender flesh.

My hands slide down his back, feeling the ridges and planes of his muscles. He is strong, and he lights up every inch of me.

His hands wander lower, his claws tracing across my stomach, teasing the sensitive skin. I squirm, trying to press against him, but he holds me firmly, his lips never leaving my breasts.

I can't take it anymore; I need him.

"Please," I beg, my voice trembling with desire.

Zarek chuckles, his lips curving into a smirk as he pulls back to look at me. "I love it when you beg," he growls, his voice low and husky.

He pushes my knees up and wedges himself between my thighs. I can feel his cock teasing my folds as he coats himself with my wetness. I lock my legs around him, holding him captive to my lust.

"Zarek, please," I whimper.

He laughs, his claws digging into my hips. "You will get what you desire, Sabrina. In time."

He shifts, his cock now sliding between my legs, the head teasing against my wet folds. I gasp at the sensation, my hips bucking involuntarily. He chuckles, a low rumble that sends shivers to my toes.

"This is what you want, Sabrina?" he murmurs, his breath hot against my ear.

"Yes, dammit!" I rasp, my voice barely above a whisper.

With a single thrust, Zarek slides into me, his massive cock filling me completely. I cry out, the sudden intrusion overwhelming.

He pauses for just a second as my pussy clenches and ripples around him. Then he moves, his pace slow and steady, his glowing eyes locked on mine.

I can't take my eyes off him, the sight of him above me. As I feel myself stretching to accommodate his cock inside me, the pressure builds within me.

His claws dig into my hips, pulling me closer to him as he drives into me. I pant with desire, my nails digging into his back as I try to adjust to his size. He's bigger than any human man I've ever been with, and there's something... different about his cock. It's ridged, with tiny bumps that send waves of pleasure through my body with every movement.

I can't think, can't breathe, can't do anything but feel the sensations crashing over me. I can't hold back anymore.

"Zarek, I'm going to—"

My words are cut off by a moan as I climax, my body shuddering with pleasure. Zarek grunts, his pace quickening, and I know he's close too.

"Fuck, yes," he growls, his fingers tangling in my hair.

His movements become erratic, and then he cries out, his cock pulsing deep inside me.

I cling to him, my body trembling with the aftershocks of my orgasm. His seed spills inside me, filling me. It's unlike anything I've ever experienced before, the sensation almost primal.

We lay there for a moment, our bodies slick with sweat, before Zarek rolls off me. He pulls me into his arms, his hand stroking my hair as we lay there in silence.

I've never felt so satisfied, so complete, in my life.

"Wow," I manage, my voice barely a whisper.

Zarek chuckles, his lips curling into a smirk. "You shall make an exquisite queen."

He shifts and his cock slips out of me, the sensation sending a shiver through my body even as I'm struck by the loss of him.

He pulls me close, his arms wrapped around me, and I can feel the steady beat of his heart. My eyelids are heavy, and despite the protests in my mind, my body relaxes against him. I've never felt so safe, so protected, in my life.

I know I should be afraid, should be thinking about escape, but all I can think about is how good it felt to be with him. I can't deny the connection between us, the pull I feel toward him.

Zarek's claws trace circles on my back, and his warmth envelops me. The exhaustion of the day and the intensity of our coupling overcome me, and I drift off into a deep and peaceful sleep.