Zayn

by A. R. Ford

  We continued walking through the garden. Cael dodged several more qinzod along the way. One chased him all the way to the door. My laughter did little to ease his irritation.

  “But if you were to find a suitable mate here, you would consider staying?” My question gave him reason to pause.

  “Tell you what, Zayn. Find me a human mate every bit as fetching as your Gracie, and I will stay,” Cael agreed. “I do not expect it to happen, but there is always hope.”

  I opened the door and beckoned for Cael to proceed before me. “After you.”

  “Thank you, kind sir!” he chuckled while bowing, then proceeding through the door.

  We had scarcely stepped inside when a guard appeared. “Sir! Another shuttle from earth has landed. A recovery team was dispatched to retrieve the human. They will proceed to the medical center for screening.”

  “Thank you for the report. You may be on your way,” I advised the guard. He saluted before returning to his duties. I glanced at Cael and grinned. “Today is certainly a day of unexpected surprises. Your luck may have changed, cousin.”

  “Why do you say that?” Cael genuinely looked confused. His forehead crinkled as he waited for my explanation.

  “The last shuttle from earth brought Gracie into my life. We should go to the medical center. I have a feeling your life will change if my assumption is correct.”

  Dr Ohnasi met us at the medical center when we arrived. He was garbed in the ghastly green scrubs he wore when working in the genetic modification unit. He beckoned for us to follow him through a doorway. “Right this way. Your men arrived a short time ago with another human female. This one is even more entertaining than your Gracie, sir.”

  I remembered this section of the genetic modification unit from my time observing Gracie through the two-way mirror. Dr. Ohnasi led us into a room. One wall held the expected mirror. Through the glass, I could see a team of medical staff examining a woman. One person drew blood, while another attempted to look in her ears. The woman was awake, struggling against the straps that held her down.

  “Take these straps off! What are you doing? You do not have my permission to touch me!” the woman spat at the staff who cautiously continued the examination. The tirade continued, often interspersed with colorful expletives.

  “What would you have me do with this one?” Dr. Ohnasi inquired with a glance in Cael’s direction.

  “I would like Gracie to speak with her. Perhaps seeing another human would calm her,” I mused. I noticed another titillating event taking place.

  Cael, the professed bachelor, moved closer to the glass, his hand pressed against it, fingers spread. His eyes focused on the female kicking, squirming, and shouting all while strapped to a gurney.

  A call to Zanzi alerted her to the need to bring Gracie to the medical center. The pair appeared not long afterwards. Gracie’s reaction to the woman was instantaneous. She pressed her face against the window, tears filling her eyes.

  “Zayn let me speak to her. She is my best friend, Eve Forrester. She worked with me, took me under her wing … gods, what if Desmond Lorrie did something to her because of me?” Her hand tightened on my wrist. “Please?”

  The sadness of Gracie’s expression made my heart clench with concern. “Dr. Ohnasi, call off your staff. Gracie will speak with this human.”

  “This is highly irregular. What if the human is contaminated with some infectious disease? It could decimate the capital city!” Dr. Ohnasi grumbled.

  “Trust me, Dr. Ohnasi. I know her,” Gracie explained. Her eyes focused on Cael. A corner of her mouth lifted when she saw the second most frightening warrior on Lonus hypnotized by the female on the gurney. “Cael?”

  “I have never seen anything so beautiful,” Cael whispered. “Her skin is like ivory. Her hair is like ebony. She has the spirit of a warrior. Are all humans this zealous?” He stood at the glass staring into the room without moving. One observation after the other flowed unchecked.

  To see such a massive warrior hypnotized by a tiny human reminded me of my reaction to Gracie’s appearance. Earth and its twisted system of justice blessed Lonus N88 not once, but twice. My gratitude knew no limits. My mate saved me from a solitary life of improperly focused anger over past events. The human female named Eve could very well do the same for Cael.

  “I think Cael has found his mate,” Gracie beamed at me. “I should speak with Eve. Her acclimation will go more smoothly after I prepare her.”

  Dr. Ohnasi did not protest when I followed Gracie into the examination chamber. It was up to me to do everything I could to ensure a smooth acclimation if Cael had found his mate. Gracie would ease her friend’s transition. And, in return, I would have my second in command to ensure Lonus continued to thrive.

  After hours at the medical center, Cael finally agreed to return to the palace with us. Dr. Ohnasi’s assurances that he would notify us of any changes appeared to ease the tension visible on my cousin’s face. He joined Grace, Zanzi, Etaiks, and me in our chamber. The reactions when they learned of Eilphe’s escape ranged from outrage, to terrified silence.

  “Not to worry,” I cautioned them. “I have a plan. The head of security assures me he will have a detailed report before the night ends. I may call upon you later. We must follow the plan to the letter in order to protect Gracie, and our unborn children. They are the innocent targets of Eilphe’s scheme.”

  Zanzi was the first to speak. “Tell me what I need to do,” she hissed, eyes narrowed in an expression of rage. “I will rip Eilphe apart if she dares harm a hair on your head, Gracie.”

  I could not suppress a grin as each person in the room shared similar sentiments. The report from my head of security arrived before our meeting ended. The report revealed the perpetrators involved in the escape, and so much more. Just as I suspected. Eilphe’s partner in crime was none other than Geven Trildail.

  It appeared the time had come to break out the ancient katanas. The razor-sharp blades were perfect for beheading traitors.

  Chapter 13: Gracie

  “I am so glad that Eve and Cael are attracted to each other.” Zayn and I sat eating breakfast on the balcony which seemed to be a routine lately. Who could say no to the perfect Lonusian weather, or Zayn’s company? I certainly could not.

  Zayn pursed his lips, eyes focused on something in the distance. “His parents would be pleased to see he’s settled down. I believe your work with Eve eased her acclimation. I wish the same could have happened for you, little one.”

  I caught his hand. “The only regret I have is not finding you sooner.”

  “I regret losing my temper, Gracie. It eats at my heart thinking of the pain I caused you.” Zayn’s lips curled. “I cannot understand how you forgave me. I am grateful beyond measure that you did.”

  “We have many things to be grateful for. Two of those should arrive soon. That means your rule is uncontested. Everyone wants you to be the leader. You are a good man, Zayn.” I took the few paces it took to stand in front of him. I sank to my knees, his hands held within mine. “And I love you more than words can express.”

  “Little one.” Zayn lifted me to sit on his lap. “Never kneel before me. You are my equal, my mate. Together, we will rule Lonus N88.”

  The evening passed with us watching the setting suns. The geodome covering the palace, and a significant area surrounding it, allowed a clear view of the sunset. Xoclaotrium. Zayn ensured I knew the name of the crystal-clear stone with impressive strength used to construct the dome. It protected the palace, and all who lived within it, from severe climate changes. An additional benefit included shielding the area from possible attacks.

  The next day, before Zayn retired to his study, he received notice of a pocket of unusual civil unrest on the outskirts of the city. “I will not be gone long, little one. Remain inside the palace until I return.”

  “You know I will,” I murmured. “I think I will go for a walk in the garden.”

  His hand covered my belly. “F
resh air would do you good. I will return as soon as the problem has been addressed.” Pressing his mouth against my ear, he whispered, “Adhere to the plan, little one. Do not let them see your fear.”

  “My beloved gives me strength to face the worst demons with no fear.” My whispered response brought Zayn’s appreciative growl. I stood ready to do exactly as he asked of me.

  Eilphe and Geven Trildail would soon be an unpleasant memory.

  The selection of loose shifts in my closet made selecting a dress difficult. A soft baby blue shift with a voluminous pleated skirt paired well with sandals. I went in search of Zanzi and Etaiks. Neither were anywhere to be found. I knew Cael would accompany Zayn. In the days since he returned, the two were inseparable. Eve continued to adapt to the genetic modification. I knew she would be resting in their room. The only familiar faces were the ever-present force of guards who manned their usual posts. So serious and somber. My visit to the garden would be a solitary journey.

  A book from the royal library would provide entertainment while Zayn addressed the unrest. I waved as I passed each guard. Standing at attention while dressed in full uniform, none of them dared return the greeting. More than one wink, or curled lip, served as some semblance of their reply.

  A padded bench in a shady corner of the garden beckoned. I sat there, flipping through the pages of the book in Lonusian. My thoughts wandered as realization dawned that my grasp of the language was not as strong as the book demanded.

  Strong movements within my womb brought a smile. I wondered who the babies would look like. Would they have exquisite Qex’ak markings, and skin coloration like all Lonusians. Would they have my pale skin? I knew the babies were strong. Their kicks were sometimes painful. Dr. Ohnasi assured us the pregnancy was healthy.

  The spiral dive of a trio of male Qinzod forced me from the bench. I watched with bemused interest as they sparred over a flowering bush. A tiny female perched near a bunch of blossoms drew my interest.

  “Ah, there is the problem!” I murmured. The female’s head turned inquisitively at my words.

  “Miss Thomson, you must come with me at once!” a frantic voice attracted my attention.

  A Dalaakian merchant approached, three-fingered hands clasped together. “Do I know you?” I murmured, cautiously stepping away from the stranger.

  “Warlord Bolden has been injured in the skirmish. He requested your presence at the medical center. He wishes me to assure you he is not seriously injured.”

  Calling on my high school drama club days, I harnessed my inner actress. I swayed unsteadily, a hand coming to rest on my womb. “Oh, no! Please ... no.” My voice faded into a choked whisper.

  “A transport awaits outside the palace. It will have us there in minutes. We must go, immediately, Miss Thomson.” The merchant paused, fingers beckoning that I should follow him. Another traitor reared its ugly head in our midst. Who knew how many lurked in the wings? I hoped Zayn’s report provided that information.

  The palace guards smiled and nodded as was their habit. I wondered if Zayn’s briefing included the guards. The question disappeared when I took the first step into the light of day outside the palace.

  An aging transport with faded black paint stood waiting for us. I had taken no more than a half dozen steps toward the vehicle when Zayn’s roar broke the quiet.

  “Step aside, Dalaakian scum! If you attempt to harm a hair on her head, my guards will run you through.” Zayn appeared in a gap between the palace, and the tall hedge growing along the sidewalk. Dressed in armor, warpaint marking bare skin, he was a sight to behold.

  Eilphe and Geven Trildail appeared in the clutches of warriors. They were bruised and battered, struggling as if they hoped to break free. Laughter burst free at the sight. Zayn beckoned for me to come to him. A warrior seized the Dalaakian merchant. A punishing fist cut off his squeal of outrage.

  Zayn pulled me against his side, a protective arm encircling me.

  “You have no right!” Geven called out. “I have done nothing wrong.”

  “I beg to differ.” Zayn turned to face the traitors now held in a group a few feet away. “You thought we were stupid enough to believe Eilphe simply escaped. This is the second time both of you have threatened my mate. You are hereby sentenced to death.”

  Lonusian executions retained a glimmer of compassion. The traitors were led to the execution chamber in the center of a public courtyard not far from the palace. A crowd of onlookers gathered as it became apparent an execution was imminent. The traitors were forced inside a glass-walled enclosure. The door, once barred, could not be opened. It muffled the sound of their screams.

  Cael requested the honor of entering the required secret code into the control panel near the door. With a push of a single button, lasers evaporated the traitors. Nothing remained, save for a few microscopic flakes of ash.

  “Is it over, now?” I murmured, daring a glance at Zayn through a veil of lashes.

  “It is over, little one. We should continue with our preparations. Dr. Ohnasi has warned us the babies may arrive earlier than expected. Zanzi and Etaiks have lost control in recent days in the shopping district.” Zayn’s concern was born of his love for me. “And there is a ceremony declaring you as my mate that we have yet to complete.”

  “I need no ceremony to tell my heart who it belongs to.” My murmured proclamation brought my mate’s possessive growl. His mouth crashed down on mine, tongue sweeping inside my mouth. Knees trembling, I found myself responding to his kiss without concern for those present.

  Cael’s muffled cough drew Zayn’s attention. “Others are staring, Warlord Bolden,” he chuckled. “A ceremony might not be needed. Anyone who saw that kiss knows you are mates.”

  “There will be a ceremony,” he growled.

  Just as my alien lover promised, the official ceremony declaring I was his mate took place in the royal garden the next day. Much to my chagrin, several newscasters set up their equipment to ensure the ceremony was broadcast throughout Lonus N88.

  Not one to hold off on surprises, Zayn covertly arranged for Zanzi and Etaiks to plan a party for the impending birth. And, much to my surprise, I learned the party was nothing more than an over-the-top baby shower. It took the assistance of Etaiks, Zanzi, Cael, and several warriors to carry all the gifts to our room.

  Zanzi helped me organize baby supplies that afternoon. Bags of items for the babies littered the now overcrowded sitting room. Zayn directed the warriors to take the desk and chair to his study. They reappeared moments later with two white baby beds—Zayn’s gift to his children. Tears threatened. My heart swelled with the sense of love and family filling the room.

  When I came to Lonus N88, I feared I could not survive.

  Zayn and his people taught me how to do just that--with an ample helping of love and family.

  Chapter 14: Zayn, Three Years Later

  Life changes as it always does. My life? The changes were for the better.

  Not only did I find a mate who loved me flaws and all, I found a happiness I thought would evade me forever. Tilqis’s betrayal no longer comes to mind. I wish her, or her mate, no ill will. My wish is that she is truly happy. Everyone deserves happiness.

  Two glorious, misbehaving children, with one on the way, add to the sense of completion. Vreks and Sozie Bolden, our twins, came into the world in the middle of the night. A son to inherit the throne. If he chooses not to? Sozie will take his place. It matters not what they choose to do--as long as their lives are filled with happiness.

  Their happiness at this moment entails chasing Etaiks around the royal garden with muddy hands. Muddy hands they want to place on his sapphire silk suit. Etaiks is no match for my spawn.

  Cael and Eve welcomed their own bundle of joy ten months after Gracie gave birth to the twins. The royal garden has become a place for family. We spend many hours there basking in sunlight while the children play together. Family.

  The crown is mine, without question. My people appreciat
e the fact their opinions and wellbeing are considered in every decision I make. A few less traitors help me sleep easier at night.

  I suppose you are wondering what became of Desmond Lorrie. An investigator uncovered information leading to Desmond’s arrest, and conviction. He was jettisoned to an unsettled planet in another galaxy. A planet known for its extreme temperature, and climate changes. A planet without civilization. There will be no reassignment for Desmond Lorrie.

  Gracie’s smile when I handed her a copy of a newspaper covering his trial and conviction said it all. We both knew Desmond Lorrie got what he deserved.

  My thoughts drift to the twins who run shrieking past me before latching onto Etaiks’s pants leg.

  And I thought the children could squeal.

  *****

  Hey there, dear reader!

  Before you go, would you consider posting a review? Indie authors like me depend on reviews from readers to gain attention for our books. I have a small monthly advertising budget and can always use your help. Your review (and even recommending the book to a friend) can really help. Just know I appreciate you taking the time to even consider a review.

  Now for the good stuff! Keep reading for a few sneaky peekies at goodies coming soon.

  This time you get a look at Dominic and Skye in An Assassin’s Love. This is the last omegaverse I will write, so get it while you can. The ugliness in the omegaverse trope author community has reached a boiling point. And I, for one, am out.

  An Assassin’s Love will be going live in the summer of 2020. Of course, if I get some love in the form of emails, reviews, or even comments on my random postings on social media, I may be convinced to push Dominic and Skye to an even earlier release date. (insert sly wink here)

  An Assassin’s Love

  A.R. Ford

  Copyright © 2020 A.R. Ford