9781631053283HeartsLastChanceMichaels (8 page)

“I understand.”
RiKar
cleared his
throat. “I’m sorry to have to impose this on you,
TriSha
.”

“How—I mean, no disrespect to either of you, but I admit I’m
confused by this.” Tricia stopped as a server placed a tray on the table loaded
with pastries and three goblets.

RiKar
handed her one of the
goblets. “Since our drink of choice is not to your liking, this is fresh
water.”

“Thank you. I’ve never been able to tolerate a great deal of
spice.” Taking a sip, Tricia found it very refreshing.

RiKar
and
KiRah
pointed out which pastries to try. Tricia soon learned she and
KiRah
both favored the honey ones.

To answer your
questions, yes,
DaTil
is indeed aware of our
affection for one another, but since he and
KiRah
are
not yet
Bonded
, she and I cannot be open about our
relationship. In three more years, once the Bonding Ceremony has taken place,
DaTil
and I will work out a private arrangement.

“But…” Tricia closed her mouth when
RiKar
put a finger to his lips.

I was under the
impression these types of relationships are forbidden here.

Not forbidden, just
less common.

But you’re an Elder!

Yes, that is why we’ve
tried to keep our affection private, and only meet once a week.
KiRah
has been helping me with my new dwelling, so that has
made things easier.

Tricia shook her head.
And
the fact she’s so much younger?

RiKar’s
heavy brows drew together.
You are aware
BaRok
is almost thirty years older than you?

Tricia nearly choked on her pastry.

Age has no bearing on
our affection. You of all people should know that.

Touché.
Tricia wiped her mouth.

“So,
TriSha
, are you enjoying our
lovely planet?”
RiKar
selected a round pastry and bit
into it, causing flecks to crumble in his dark blue beard.

“Yes, very much.
KiRah
is a wonderful tour guide. Which reminds me, where is
Brock?”

“
BaRok
is at the council, trying
to establish another link with
NiKoh
, in order to
negotiate his release.”
KiRah
picked up her goblet
and took a sip.

“You will see him when I take you before the Elders, to see
if we deem you suitable,”
RiKar
added.

Suitable?
So if I approve of your relationship with
his sister, you’ll let us be together? How kind of you.

RiKar’s
eyes narrowed as he
brushed the crumbs from his beard.
That
has no bearing whatsoever. I’ve observed you the past several hours and find
your support of
BaRok
and his family in this hour of
crisis admirable. I’ve seen no evidence of anything unsatisfactory.

I’m sorry. Sometimes I
don’t check myself.

Your loyalty is also
admirable.

KiRah
set her goblet down, laying
a hand on
RiKar’s
arm. “The hour grows late. Mother
will expect us back soon.”

“Of course.
I myself need to return
to the council to oversee things.” He stood up.

Tricia drank the rest of her water and pushed back her
chair.
RiKar
held out his hand to assist her,
then
turned to
KiRah
. He kissed
her cheek,
then
bowed to each in turn.

“Blessings, ladies.
I will see you
later today.”

“Blessings,
RiKar
.”
KiRah
gathered her shawl around her to cover her bodice.

Tricia noticed
RiKar
seemed
disappointed as he held out his arm, indicating they were to precede him. She
walked toward the entrance, enjoying the hot sun as she lingered.
KiRah
soon joined her.

“Apologies, I saw someone I knew.”
KiRah
tucked her arm in Tricia’s. “Thank you for coming with me.”

“I’m not thrilled you used me as a decoy, but given the
circumstances, I understand. Next time, please let me know ahead of time?”

“I could not let your thoughts betray us. I was afraid
Mother would assign someone else to do the marketing today.”
KiRah
squeezed her arm and led her back to the Domestic
Compound.

* * * *

Brock paced the council’s inner chamber as
TiGra
tried once more to establish contact.

“Why won’t my brother speak to me? Has he forgotten it’s his
duty as Eldest to remain here and establish the bloodline further?”

“Calm down,
BaRok
. I’m sure once
NiKoh’s
emotions settle, he will remember his
responsibilities.”

“I hope so.” Brock sat down at the desk again.

“Hold on, incoming message.”
TiGra
activated the screen.

A stern-faced, bearded man appeared.
“Greetings
TriJupians
.”
He adjusted something in his left
ear. “How may I be of service to you?”

“Greetings
Xaxonian
.
We are attempting to determine the whereabouts of our companion,
NiKoh
of
TriJupe
. His last known
coordinates were inside the compound of your leader,
DaShlek
.
We’ve had no communication in several hours.”
TiGra
spoke in a calm, friendly voice, but Brock could see his knuckles turn white.

“As a matter of fact, both
SaLie
and her brother are here in my dwelling. Would you like to see them?” He smiled
and showed his broken, uneven teeth.

Who is that?
Brock
stared in horror at the screen.
And he
has both my siblings?

BaRock
, maybe you should leave the room.

Not a chance.

“Will you give me a moment,
JeWal
?”
Pressing a button,
TiGra
turned to face Brock, who
stared at him in shock. “
BaRok
, I do not know what he
is planning. That is why I suggested you leave.”

“Did you know you were contacting that animal?”

“No one else answered. I took a chance and widened the
signal. I was hoping for someone more
friendly
.
Apologies.”
TiGra
turned back to
the screen and pressed the button again. “Are they unharmed and in good
health?”

“What a question.”
JeWal
laughed.
“Good health, yes. Unharmed, now how can they be unharmed when they staged a
coup at
DaShlek’s
compound? A few bruises, bumps…and
SaLie
has been most cooperative.” He motioned and soon
Brock noticed
SaLie
move into view, her blue eyes,
once vibrant with life, appear dull and submissive. She moved in a stiff
manner, as if in pain.

Brock tried to reach his sister’s thoughts, but found them
blocked. “Greetings,
SaLie
my sister.”

She cast a glance at
JeWal
, who
inclined his head. “Greetings,
BaRok
.”

“Are you well?” Brock persisted.

Again she glanced at
JeWal
. “I am
well.”

Brock saw her wince as someone took her arm and led her
away.
NiKoh
took her place, his bruised and battered
face full of anger.

“I’m sorry I dragged
SaLie
into
this, brother.” Brock felt a wave of mental anguish.

They’re blocking our—

NiKoh
staggered, but remained on
his feet.
“Greetings, brother.
I am to tell you I will
be returning after I witness the joining of
SaLie
to
JeWal
and
DuKar
. No sooner. Have
you
Bonded
yet?”

“No. We go before the Elders today, for the initial consult.
My Chosen is enjoying herself, and she and our baby sister are touring the
city. Are you well?”

“I am banged up, but nothing seriously broken. Send Mother
my love and apologies.”
NiKoh
bowed his head.

An image of
SaLie
strapped to a
wooden frame entered Brock’s mind. He gasped, then saw
NiKoh
being pulled out of view, heard the crack of a whip.

JeWal
scowled. “Your brother is
strong.
But since you’re so curious.”
The screen
changed and the image Brock had seen in his mind filled the screen.
SaLie’s
arms were strapped above her head and legs cuffed
apart as
JeWal
flogged her buttocks. Another man
stroked her breasts while shoving his cock into her.

Brock looked away, sickened.

“You don’t like the way I take my pleasure?
DuKah
and I had a nice time with her last night. She made
no sound, only the cries of ecstasy as we shared her. Shall I turn her around
and show you what her face looks like in this video?”

“That’s not necessary.” Brock forced back the bile in his
throat. “When will the Joining take place?”

“I’ll have your brother returned in time for your ceremony.
I guarantee ours is more entertaining though.” The connection was severed.

Brock bolted from his chair and vomited into the nearest
garbage receptacle. “That is the second image a brother should never see.”

“I warned you.”
TiGra’s
voice was
gentle. “What was with asking both if they were well?”

Brock wiped his mouth. “A code my mother came up with for
us. If we answered honestly, things were okay. But if we simply say we’re well,
then she knew we were in danger. And you saw what they did to
SaLie
.” His eyes filled with tears. “That is not the sister
I knew.” His voice cracked.

“Remember, she made her choice and is of age. The only thing
you can do is keep the lines of communication open and one day, she may finally
decide to leave.”

“I know.” Brock pinched the bridge of his nose and blinked
back the tears. “Is
TaTur
still in negotiations?”

TiGra
looked somber. “He will be
bringing
NiKoh
home in a few days. He is very sorry
SaLie
made this choice.
LoGar
will be making his apology to
LiMiu
and their Council
tomorrow.”

Brock fisted his hands. “He should not have to apologize.”

“I know, but this is their way. Are there any customs on
your
Chosen
’s world that might cause us harm?”

“Other than the fact they’re unaware of life outside their
galaxy? No. As long as I don’t call attention to the fact I have certain
powers, I blend in on Earth.”

“Go home and get ready for your appointment,
BaRok
. I have things under control here.”
TiGra
dismissed him. “
RiKar
or I
will contact you if further developments arise.
Blessings.”

“Blessings.”
Brock sighed and left
the council area.

Chapter Five

Tricia embraced Brock when he returned, noting his anguished
look.

“Are you okay?” she whispered in his ear as he held her for
several seconds.

“I’ll be fine.” He released her and approached his mother,
holding her hands while gazing into her eyes.

ReNei
gasped, shaking her head.
Brock beaconed to Tricia, who slipped her hand into his as they ascended the
stairs.

“Mother had your suit cleaned for the meeting with the
Council.” He looked her up and down.
“Though you look
wonderful in my sister’s dress.”
They entered the suite and Brock
secured the outer door.

Tricia turned around to show off every angle. “I had a chat
with
KiRah
and
RiKar
.”

Brock stopped in the process of pulling his tunic over his
head. “You spoke with
RiKar
also? How did you manage
that?”

“Your sister had arranged to meet him at a café. I had no choice
but to question him.” She followed him into the bedroom. “Would it be better if
I were to stay in
KiRah’s
dress?”

“No. The custom is for off-
worlders
to wear their own clothing. Mother is having a special garment made for our
Bonding and when we return to Earth, I want you to wear that banana outfit
again.” Brock helped her out of the dress and placed kisses on the swell of her
breasts. “I so wish we had more than a few moments.”

“I wish I had my makeup. I want to look nice tonight.”

“You are beautiful.” Brock swatted her bottom in a playful
manner. Stripping off his clothing, he dressed in black slacks with a matching
shirt with a royal blue stripe down his left side.

Tricia struggled into her pantyhose,
then
easily slipped into the blue suit. She pulled Brock’s comb through her hair and
turned back to him, gasping at the sight. Brock’s skin had taken on the same
silver sheen as the others and his hair was now the color of raspberries.

“I must appear in my normal skin and hair color for the rest
of our stay.” He extended his hands.
“Any second thoughts?”

“I rather like your hair color.” Tricia cocked her head. “I
believe I’ll keep you.” She stepped into her shoes, tugging each one securely
around each heel.

“Good, for I don’t intend to let you get away.” Brock curled
his arm around her waist as they went back downstairs. “Relax and be yourself.
They don’t need to know every intimate detail about our weekend. This is pretty
much routine questions about your acceptance level.”

ReNei
met them in the living area.
“We will feast when you return.
Blessings,
BaRock
.
Blessings,
TriSha
.”

“Blessings,” they each murmured in turn.

Brock turned to Tricia. “Do you trust me?”
 
He took her hands in his.

She nodded.

“Take a deep breath.”

Tricia inhaled as she felt her body being sucked into
nothingness.
 
She gripped Brock’s
hand as tight as she could. Her feet landed on a solid surface, while Brock
steadied her as she exhaled.

“What the hell was that?” She shook her head to get her
bearings.

The room they stood in was decorated in tones of blue and
gray, accented with touches of bright red. A scarlet lampshade matched various
pillows on low couches. A huge wooden conference table dominated the space, and
seven Elders were seated, facing them.
RiKar
was
third to the right of the center.

“Greetings,
BaRok
.” The man in the
center stood and held out his hand. “You may approach.”

“Thank you,
BeHah
. May I present
my
Chosen
,
TriSha
.
” Brock held her
steady as he guided her forward.

It was faster to
teleport you, since time is of the essence.

I wish you’d given me
more warning.

“
BaRok
, you have observed her for
over twenty years, yet your prior three times were unsuccessful. Why has she
now accepted you?”

“I did not know how best to approach her. The first time, I
thought I knew what kind of man she wanted, but that turned out to not be the
case. The second time, I tried again, but discovered with Earthlings, no matter
how well you think you know them, they still manage to surprise you. So with my
final effort, I decided to be in her home as a pet, but chose the wrong body.
With the blessings of this Council last month, I was given a fourth and final
chance. I started fresh, no games. I showered her with attention, and
discovered if I simply relaxed and showed my true personality, she was more
receptive. Even when I revealed my identity, her affection for me did not
change. And she has proven to be accepting of my family.”

“Thank you.
TriSha
, I understand
you were brought here while you slept, and have adapted somewhat to our
planet?”

“Yes. I’ve learned to only drink your water, since the wine
is too spicy for me.
Brock—forgive me
—
BaRok’s
cook made me a wonderful fruit drink. I’ve also
enjoyed some of your food.” Gripping Brock’s hand, Tricia spoke in a clear
voice.

“What of the pressures
BaRok
and
his family have endured while you have been here?
Has there
been any issues
?” A silver-haired Elder asked.

“
BaRok
and his family have been
well informed of the events, and since I’m not exactly sure what has taken
place, the only thing I can do is provide support and comfort to his family,
and do what I can to help out in any way.”

The Elders nodded and murmured.
RiKar
cleared his throat. “Since none of our people have ever
Bonded
with anyone from Earth, how do you know if any offspring will soon follow?”

Brock squeezed her hand. “If we’re lucky to have offspring,
I’m sure they will arrive when the time is right. According to the medical
scans, her body should have no problem carrying any progeny.”

Medical
scans?
And how do we explain
to our child you live on another planet? Or for that matter, he or she is
half-alien!

I’ll explain later.
Trust me.

Tricia bristled, but remained silent.

One of the other Elders squinted at the screen in front of
him. “It says here if you are Bonded, you wish to apply for
bo’sai’che
status? What will you
do on Earth to support yourself, and what
happens
if
your family needs you?”

“As you know, I have enjoyed favor as Financial Advisor to
the Council of Elders and also to our Supreme Family. My Chosen runs a
profitable business and I am sure she has no objections taking me on as a third
partner, where I can advise her on any financial investments. Since it is a
family business, there would be no issues with having to explain my absence.
TriSha
understands my family dynamics, and will be
supportive.”

“
TriSha
, what
about your family?
How do you plan to introduce
BaRok
to them?” Another Elder peered at her from under thick bluish silver eyebrows.

“I would simply introduce him as someone I’ve met, and after
a period of time, we would begin the formal engagement and marriage planning.”
Tricia felt her cheeks heat.
I’ve only
known him less than a week and already planning to marry him?

Are you having second
thoughts?

Not about this. I want
to be with you.

Good.

She felt a surge of love and warmth flow through her body.

BeHah
looked at the other two at
the table. “
TiGra
,
HaBoh
,
do either of you have questions?”

HaBoh
cleared his throat. “I am
content with the proceedings.”

“As am I. Forgive me, I am also working on helping to solve
BaRok’s
family crisis. I may seem distracted, but have not
observed any problems.”

RiKar
stood up. “I’ve been
impressed with
TriSha’s
courage during these past two
days. I vote to approve this Bonding.”

The others agreed as
RiKar
took
his seat again.

BeHah
rang a bell. “It is settled.
You may proceed, and tell your mother I send my blessings.”

BaRok
exhaled,
then
bowed. “Thank you.
Blessings.”

“Blessings to you both.”

Brock led Tricia into the anteroom, swept her up in his
arms, and twirled her around in jubilation. “We did it!” He set her down.

Tricia felt relief wash over her. “Now what happens?”

“We return, tell my mother and
KiRah
the good news,
then
celebrate with friends and
neighbors.” Brock turned to the door,
then
stopped.
“Was teleporting so bad?”

“It took me by surprise. Maybe the second time it won’t be
so bad, now I know what to expect. Are we really that far away from your home?”

“Yes. Take a deep breath.” Brock embraced her.

Tricia felt the
whoosh
of being sucked through space and nearly collapsed in Brock’s arms when
they arrived back at his house.

“Really,
BaRok
.
I am most disappointed in you.” She heard
ReNei
make
a
tsking
sound. Tricia felt her body being
picked up and laid on a sofa. “Try to have some consideration for your
Chosen
.”

“I’m all right.” Tricia tried to open her eyes, but the
dizziness was too much.

“Lay still for a while. You are not used to teleportation
and it can cause a strain on off-
worlders
.”
ReNei’s
voice was tight with disapproval.

“Apologies, Mother. With everything going on at once, I
didn’t think.”

“You must always put the needs of your
Chosen
above those of your own. That is the secret to a successful Bonding.”

 
Tricia opened
her eyes to see Brock looking ashamed. “
ReNei
, he is
not totally to blame. I was also in a hurry to return from the Council.” She
sat up and smoothed her skirt over her knees, thankful the vertigo had passed.
“I’ve only been here two days, and we’ve all been through a great deal.”

“Admirable. She sticks up for you.”
ReNei’s
eyebrows lifted. “I must oversee the food for this evening.
TriSha
,
feel free to change back into what you wore this morning. You might find it
more comfortable for the festivities tonight.
Blessings.”
She left the room.

Brock helped Tricia to her feet. “Shall we have our own
celebration and work up an appetite?” He stroked her backside.

Shivers ran down her spine. “Why,
BaRok
,
are you propositioning me?”

“I am indeed.”

“Lead the way.”

* * * *

Brock whistled three hours later. He had shown Tricia how to
use the shower in the washroom, even joining her for some more fun before they
had fallen asleep in the warm bed.
KiRah
had awakened
them, reminding them of the party beginning soon.

Smoothing his tunic, he turned as Tricia entered the room.
He helped her adjust the neckline, though he would have liked it a bit lower.

“Ready?”

“Yes. When is the Bonding Ceremony to be held?” She turned
to look at him, a serious look in her blue eyes.

“Not for several months. We will return again for it.
Besides,
NiKoh
is not yet home.”

“Brock, if we were to say we wanted it to be tomorrow, would
that step up his return?”

Fighting to catch his breath at the unexpected question,
Brock stopped in the act of opening the door as the image of
SaLie
with the two men assaulted him. “There have been other
circumstances.
NiKoh
will return after my sister is
joined to
JeWal
. And since we don’t know when that
will be, plans have to be put on hold.”

He felt her hand on his shoulder. “I’m so sorry. I didn’t
mean to bring up any unpleasant memories. Let’s go and enjoy our party. I feel
guilty for not offering to help your mother.”

“It is in your honor. You were not required to help.” Brock
opened the door and slipped his free hand around her waist. “My mother loves to
entertain, and has it down to a fine art.”

“No wonder she and I get along so well.” Tricia beamed at
him as they descended the stairs.

Brock enjoyed showing off his
Chosen
to his friends and extended family. At first, Tricia had stayed by his side,
but then expressed her desire to speak with others on her own. Since the
universal translators were in place, he knew she would have no problem with
communication.

“Congratulations are in order.” A hand clapped on his
shoulder.
 
Turning, he faced
RiKar
and
TiGra
, each with a
goblet. “Just remember to check in every so often.”

Brock stiffened as he glanced at
RiKar
.
“Thank you,” he said to
TiGra
. He noticed Tricia
laughing with
KiRah
and her friends. “She and
KiRah
have become good friends. I do plan to check in once
a month, or sooner as needed. Is there any news of
SaLie’s
Joining?”