Love's Prisoner

LOVE’ S PRISONER …Clothes rustled in the darkness and her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. The man was undressing and she realized she needed to do so as well. Luckily enough the dress would slip off with ease, but she didn’t count on the elaborate hair style getting in the way. A hair style he didn’t even get the chance to appreciate. Slipping her arms out of the dress, she tried to tug it off over her head, but it was no use. She needed to yank all of the pins out of her thick hair for it to come undone and it would take forever. She whimpered in frustration, inwardly cursing her sister’s competence. “You all right, Princess?” His deep voice reached across the bed as if to caress her and she shook her head, not wanting to have such silly thoughts. The man didn’t care about her, wasn’t interested. She needed to stop pretending there was something more. “Nothing of your concern,” she finally said, immediately hating the haughty tone to her voice. Sera reached around and pulled the pins out of her hair one by one, grimacing with each tug. How many did Anna put in her hair anyway? And exactly how long was this going to take? “Do you need help?” He stood directly behind her and she closed her eyes, wondering if he was already naked. Not that she could see him.

She’d seen pictures of the male anatomy before. She could certainly imagine what he looked like. Was his penis big or small? She had a feeling it was huge. A shudder moved through her…

ALSO BY KAREN ERICKSON Breaking Free Covet Hard To Resist Night Wolf

LOVE’S PRISONER BY KAREN ERICKSON

AMBER QUILL PRESS, LLC http://www.AmberQuill.com

LOVE’S P RISONER AN AMBER QUILL PRESS BOOK This book is a work of fiction. All names, characters, locations, and incidents are products of the author’s imagination, or have been used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead, locales, or events is entirely coincidental. Amber Quill Press, LLC http://www.AmberQuill.com All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be transmitted or reproduced in any form, or by any means, without permission in writing from the publisher, with the exception of brief excerpts used for the purposes of review. Copyright © 2008 by Karen Erickson ISBN 978-1-60272-243-9 Cover Art © 2008 Trace Edward Zaber

Layout and Formatting provided by: Elemental Alchemy

PUBLISHED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

LOVE’S PRISONER

CHAPTER 1

“Your Highness, he has been captured.” Princess Serafina turned around, surprised. Her most loyal guardsman stood before her, hands behind his back, mouth drawn into a tight line. He didn’t look pleased. She didn’t care. What had to be done would be done. Once her father decreed it, there was no other choice. She hadn’t expected a prospective mate to be found for her so soon, though. “Where is he?” Jameson tilted his head. “Under observation in a holding pod. He’ll be kept there for at least twenty-four hours to make sure he’s mentally and physically sound.” “What does he look like?” She had to know. Had every 1

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right to know what the man who’d sire her future child and heir looked like. “Like a dirty vagrant.” Jameson appeared so disgusted Serafina thought he might spit. “He’s disgusting, not worthy of even looking at you, Your Highness. Let alone touch you.” He would say that because the man wasn’t like them. Everyone on Taysir was blond, blue eyed, fair skinned. A genetic alteration her great grandfather put into place so many years ago. The problem was, the alteration had slowly made all of the men sterile and eventually uninterested in women. Years ago the men had been forced to perform sexual acts on women in order to produce children, but as time went on, they weren’t even aroused by the sight of a female form. By the time she’d been born, all of the men’s sperm on Taysir had been rendered ineffective. Now the entire Taysir race was diminishing at a rapid rate and Serafina was their only hope. A young fertile woman in her prime and a rarity amongst the people on Taysir. “I’m sure he’ll be fine.” She hoped so. She had to believe so. “He’ll hurt you. He is—huge.” Jameson shook his head. “If you are to subject yourself to this man, you should at least make sure he is restrained before it takes place.” Fear made her heart beat faster. Restrained? She’d never thought of the man hurting her. She’d heard having intercourse the first time could prove painful for a woman, but she never imagined the man would purposely want to do her harm. 2

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“I want to see him.” The expression on Jameson’s face said it all. “You absolutely cannot. I forbid you to see him, Your Highness, until you must.” Serafina’s eyebrows rose. “You forbid me? Strong choice of words, Jameson.” He appeared flustered and duly so. “I’m sorry, but I don’t think it would be a good idea to see this man until the meeting between you is set up.” She was so sick of people telling her what to do. Her days and nights were rigidly scheduled. She rarely spent any time alone, always surrounded by royal employees of some sort. Guards followed her constantly because of her status. She hated it. Jameson’s protests riled her more, and she stood, lifting her chin. “Take me to him, Jameson. Now.” “Shouldn’t you wait until he is at least prepared for your visit? I heard he was very angry when they brought him in, screaming and kicking at the guards. He had to be…subdued and shackled.” Like an animal. Was he an animal? The search team had been sent to Old Earth to find a suitable mate. A man strong and smart and able to defend himself. A capable man that could sire a child with ease, create an able minded, attractive child who would eventually carry on the royal family bloodline of Taysir. If the experiment worked, more would be conducted and more men from Old Earth would be brought to Taysir to sire children. 3

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People were dying on Taysir yet no babies were being born. The population on Old Earth had slowly lessened as years went by, but many still lived in the wilds there. They fought long and hard wars across the barren land. The Earth men were desperate for women, or at least Sera had heard that rumor. She didn’t want him too desperate though. Oh, she knew what happened between a man and a woman. She’d read many medical journals describing the sexual act in detail, with artist renderings included. Yes, she could admit she was scared. But she had to do it, she had no choice. Her father had decided her fate for her. “Has he been medically tested? Bathed? Fed?” Jameson nodded. “They tested him on the way back to the base. He was given food but he refused it. I don’t know about bathing though, Your Highness. He did not look clean to me. He even smelled…odd.” She waved her hand in front of her and stood. “I don’t care about such matters at the moment, though he really should eat if he wants to retain his strength. Please take me to his holding pod. I want to meet the man who is going to father my future child.” *

*

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Kadar struggled against the restraints that clasped his wrists in front of him. He had no idea what kind of material they were made of. He’d never seen or felt anything like it before. 4

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Some sort of smooth, hard plastic. He jerked his hands against the rings that wrapped around his thick wrists, but it was no use. He couldn’t escape no matter how hard he tried. He didn’t know where he was, or why he’d been captured. One minute he’d been minding his own business, getting ready to leave the base he was stationed at and travel across the desert with his crew when a loud knock sounded at the door. He’d barely cracked the door open when a group of six men wearing strange outfits barreled their way inside. Overwhelmed but never one to bow down from a fight, he struggled mercilessly with every man until they all got smart and tackled him at once. They restrained him with the stupid cuffs he still wore and shoved him into an aero-ship. Now he was on a foreign planet, being held captive for God knows what. He’d struggled again when they shoved him into the tiny room he now occupied, kicking at them with such force they clocked him in the back of the head. It had nearly sent him to the ground, but he wouldn’t allow it. Couldn’t allow any sign of weakness in front of the blond, pale pansies and their shitty smug expressions. Fuckin’ pussies. A beep sounded and he turned, watching as the doors slid open with a quiet swoosh. A short man strode inside, his jaw set, blue eyes cold as ice. He glared at Kadar, a snarl on his thin lips. “Stand up, Earth man. Her Royal Highness Princess Serafina of Taysir has deigned to grant you with her presence.” 5

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“Jameson, please stop.” Struggling to his feet, Kadar’s gaze alit on the woman who appeared before him. The very breath escaped his lungs as he took in her delicate features. Thick white blond hair hung well past her shoulders in luxurious waves, smooth pale skin, sparkling, curious bluish-green eyes. Lush pink lips curved into a tentative smile and her head tilted in his direction. “I am Princess Serafina of Taysir. What is your name, sir?” He blinked, the sound of her soft voice washing over him, making his cock twitch. Turning to look at the princess’s henchman, he found the man glaring at him with unveiled disgust. “What the fuck is going on here?” Kadar directed his question at the asshole, pissed at himself and his reaction toward the princess. He had no business mooning over a beautiful woman when he needed to get the hell out of this strange place, get the fuck off this bizarre planet. The woman visibly flinched and stepped back. Jameson held his arm in front of her, as if preventing Kadar from lunging at her. Yeah right… He hated to admit the idea didn’t sound bad at all. But not in the threatening manner they expected. No, more like lunge toward her to yank her into his arms. Hold her close and stroke her smooth skin. See if it was as soft as it looked. She was, simply put, beautiful. “Watch your tone when speaking in front of a member of 6

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the royal family of Taysir!” Kadar sneered. “There’s nothing royal about this woman to me, jerk off. Why don’t you go fuck yourself?” Jameson’s arm rose and Kadar stood his ground, glaring at him. He silently dared the man to hit him. “Jameson, please! Don’t lay a hand on this man. He’s upset and rightly so.” The princess shoved Jameson’s arm out of her way and took cautious steps toward Kadar, eyes glowing, her smile warm though her lips trembled. She feared him. The thought of that didn’t sit well. “Tell me your name, please.” “Why do you care?” Why was she even here? The smile slipped away from her face. “I don’t want to hurt you, none of us do. We are a gentle race, trust me. Please tell me your name.” Squinting, he waved his shackled hands toward the back of his head as best he could. “Too late. I have a fucking huge bump on the back of my head from your supposed wonderful and gentle people.” Her gaze slid to Jameson, anger tightening her delicate features. “Let me spend some time alone with him.” “But Your Highness!” “Please leave. You can wait right outside the door. I’ll buzz if I need you. I’m sure this man will do me no harm.” Her gaze met his for the briefest moment and Kadar knew the second their eyes connected he would never hurt her. No, in fact he could imagine himself doing many things to her. None of them painful in any way. 7

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She waited silently, her arms crossed in front of her, and Jameson finally sighed in apparent defeat. Throwing one last hostile glare Kadar’s way, he left the holding pod in a definite huff. The doors slid shut, and she turned to him, her flowing pale silver skirts swirling around her feet. “You’re injured.” He shrugged, embarrassed. Not wanting to make a big deal about his injury especially in front of her. Why he cared, he had no idea. “I’m fine.” A hesitant hand reached out, smoothing over the back of his head in the barest of touches. Her tiny fingers tangled in the wavy hair at his neck, surging upward to test his scalp. They pressed on the throbbing bump and he hissed in pain. “You’re not fine.” Her sweet voice firm, she stalked over to the control panel by the door, pressing a button and talking into the speaker. “We need medical treatment as soon as possible. Please send a doctor at once.” “Yes, Your Highness.” The terse reply crackled from the speaker. She stood there for a moment, still facing the door, and he watched as her slim shoulders sagged the slightest bit. “I apologize for what happened. You weren’t supposed to be hurt. I’ll have a talk with their commander and set him straight.” “Not your fault.” His reply was gruff—he couldn’t help it. He didn’t want or need this woman’s sympathy. What he wanted was to go home. The air in the tiny pod had become uneasy, tense. Chemistry crackled between them, and he 8

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wondered if she noticed. Kadar didn’t want to be attracted to her. “It is my fault you’re here. You were captured by our military for a reason, a very important reason. What you’re required to do could change the fate of civilization for our nation.” She turned around, her hands clutched together. “Hopefully you won’t have to stay long.” “I don’t get it. Why am I here? What do you and your people want from me that’s so important?” “No one has told you?” He shook his head, still not sure why this woman appeared so worried. Why she even talked to him. She was a princess, a member of this planet’s royal family and yet she spent time with him, a mere prisoner? He didn’t understand. “Your asshole military, excuse my language, hasn’t said anything to me but ‘shut up’ or ‘don’t move.’” She smiled but appeared nervous, her lush lips trembling even more than before. She tilted her chin upward, pressed her lips together, and drew in a deep breath. “You’re here to help get me with child. To help carry on the people of my country, our future. We need you. I need you.”

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CHAPTER 2

The man couldn’t have looked more stunned if she’d slapped him across the face. Sera watched as a million emotions seemed to cross his handsome face at once. And he was handsome, so completely different from any man she’d ever seen before. His overgrown wavy hair, black as night, inky slashes for eyebrows above deep brown, heavily lashed eyes and a thick black beard covered his face. Even with the beard, she could discern his high cheekbones and firm, sensual lips. His skin was dark, darker than she’d ever seen before, and his body incredibly large. Broad of shoulders and chest, he towered over her, could crush her easily with his bare hands. 10

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Yet somehow she didn’t fear him, knew deep in her heart he meant her no harm. “Get you with child? Did I hear you correctly?” She breathed deep and gazed directly into his eyes. His expression was nothing less than incredulous, not that she could blame him. “Yes. You did.” His lips twisted and he shook his head, shoved his fingers through his already mussed hair. “Are you talking about what I think you’re talking about? Because there’s no way that’s gonna happen.” Stiffening her spine, she stood straighter. This man didn’t have a choice; he couldn’t defy her father. What was ordered would happen no matter what he said. “It will happen. Neither of us have a choice in the matter; it’s been decreed by the king.” A dark brow rose, the look on his face clearly disbelieving. “I’m assuming your father is the king, right? You can’t tell dear old dad you don’t want to do this? Get me off the hook and send me back home?” “No, I cannot tell him I don’t want to do this. I cannot defy him; it will only make him angry. And who said I don’t want to do this?” He actually had the nerve to chuckle. “Do you even understand how a woman ‘gets with child,’ as you call it? You have ‘virgin’ written all over you.” This man wasn’t very nice. She understood his confusion at being captured and thrust into a different world on a different planet, roughed up and then told he was supposed to 11

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impregnate a stranger. Still, that didn’t give him cause to behave in such a rude manner. “I completely understand the concept of intercourse between a man and a woman. Just because I’ve never done it doesn’t make me an imbecile.” His eyes flared the slightest bit as they traveled boldly up and down her body, and her skin tingled from his gaze, her nipples tightening beneath the gauzy fabric of her dress. No one had dared to look at her in such an inappropriate manner before in her entire life. She hated to admit she liked it. “So you are a virgin.” “What does it matter to you? At least I’m pure.” “So you’ll willingly give it up to me, a total stranger, so I can knock you up? Don’t you need to get married to make little princes and princesses? Isn’t that the proper way to do all of this? Why doesn’t one of your henchmen take care of you?” “They can’t.” She turned away, unable to look at him any longer. She felt foolish, knew he wouldn’t understand, no one understood. “The men of Taysir are infertile. There are no more children amongst our colony. I am the only hope in continuing the blood line.” “You mean to tell me there are no other women on this fucking planet? Your father can’t order an experiment on some other innocent woman and get her pregnant? He’ll allow a captive from Old Earth to soil his pure daughter?” The man sneered and shook his head, his shaggy hair tumbling about his face. He shoved it back impatiently. “I knew you wouldn’t understand. I don’t know why I 12

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even bothered trying to explain it to you. What has been declared will happen, sir. You’ll undergo more tests, you’ll be bathed, and then we’ll meet again to complete the process. I will see you then.” With a flounce of her skirts, she fled the holding pod, not daring to look back and watch the man, the man whose name she still didn’t know. It didn’t matter. She would find it out later, when they met again. When they would have intercourse and make a baby. A baby to save her future. *

*

*

“You look lovely, Sera.” Sera’s gaze met her sister Annaliese’s in the mirror. “You look more scared than I am.” Butterflies tumbled in Sera’s stomach and her limbs shook with fear. Thankfully she was able to control it, the picture of icy cold calm compared to her sister’s nervous fluttering. She needed to give off the composed vibe, the sense of control, not allow the captive to see her fear. He’d only waste time mocking her and they had no time to waste. She hadn’t seen him in three days, and had undergone extensive medical testing herself to pinpoint her fertility schedule. When the specialist declared the next three nights as the best chance to become pregnant, her father told her it must happen. She had to meet with the prisoner and mate with him. Hopefully it would take the first time. She had no intention of having intercourse with him again. Just the thought of that 13

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big man on top of her, inside her…she shivered, rubbing her hands up and down her arms. “I’m nervous for you, sister,” Annaliese said, startling Sera from her thoughts. “You’ve never done this before and I heard it hurts!” “I’ll be fine.” She smiled serenely, feeling anything but. Pressing a hand to her stomach she stood, admiring her sister’s handiwork. “I don’t think my hair has ever looked lovelier.” Annaliese beamed. “Thank you. I’m sure that barbarian will only tear it apart and make it a mess.” Why did that sound like not such a bad thing? She had no idea. Fitful dreams had filled her head since her first meeting with the stranger. Thankful one of the guards had given her his name, now she even dreamed about calling him Kadar. Whispering his name when his arms came around her, murmuring his name in his ear after he kissed her, crying out his name when he undressed her… Now he was about to be brought to her chambers for the night and, hopefully, they would create a child. She’d gotten her hands on more information about sex, but most of it sounded so clinical. And since no one really had sex anymore there was no way she could ask around so… Sera had no clue what she was supposed to do or how to act. She didn’t know how to approach him, what to say. He seemed to have experience, so should she just follow his lead? Of course, he was being brought to her against his will so maybe there would be no lead to follow. This could prove to 14

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be difficult. She was both scared and excited at the same time. Jameson strode into her chambers without announcement, a grim look on his face. “He is here. Shall I bring him inside?” Standing, Sera turned to smile at her sister. “Thank you, Anna you’ve made me more than presentable. You can go now.” “Will you be okay?” Annaliese squeezed her hand. “I’ll be fine, I assure you.” Sera nodded at Jameson. “You may go now, too, and send him in on your way out.” “Do you want him restrained?” Jameson visibly swallowed and she wondered why he was so disgusted by Kadar. “Absolutely not. I have no fear of him.” Maybe she had a little bit of fear, but not enough to keep him tied up like some sort of animal. “Please send him in.” Anna and Jameson walked out, Jameson shooting her one last look as he left the room. She turned away as soon as the door closed, gazed about her room, wondering where she should wait for him. Sitting in the chair, lying on the bed? Would it be too wanton of her to lie in wait for him? She didn’t know… “Princess.” Turning at the sound of his voice, she found Kadar standing immobile, his dark brown eyes trained on her. He looked completely different from the shaggy, dirty man she’d left in the holding pod a few days ago. His glossy black hair was trimmed, but still a little wild about his head, and the heavy beard was gone, though a neat goatee framed his 15

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sensuous mouth. Dressed all in black, his clothes only emphasized the sheer size of him, the breadth of his shoulders, the width of his chest, the length of his legs. “Hello.” Her voice shook and she cleared her throat, trying to regain the semblance of calm she had only moments ago. The second he came close all calm disappeared. She had no idea what to do next or what to say. She could only hope he made an approaching gesture so they could get on with it and then finish. Quickly and successfully. He took a step toward her, then stopped, as if cautious, gauging her reaction. His eyes met hers, and just like that, she tumbled into their warm dark depths, lost. Her entire body warmed, her heart raced, and she clutched her hands together. He scowled at her and tore his gaze away to fix it on the wall behind her, hands on his hips. “I want you to know I don’t agree with this.” It was as if he’d slapped her. Her face stung, her chest tightened painfully and she released a shuddering breath. “I don’t want to do this with you either, but I don’t have a say in the matter. Neither do you.” “Why can’t this happen in a lab? I hand a sample over to someone in a white coat and then it’s injected in you. No messy entanglements involved.” She noticed he looked uncomfortable. Good. At least they both felt the same way. “My father wants it to be done naturally. Many lab experiments have been performed over the years and they’ve all failed. He believes there’s a better chance the, er, sperm will take if it’s done traditionally.” 16

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His head dropped back and he stared up at the ceiling, looking extremely put out. She couldn’t blame him, but they needed to do this. Though he didn’t fully understand the importance of this future child to her people, she did. The Taysir race depended on her to help carry on their race. She was only one woman, but at least she was a start. Her father had already subtly threatened her if the results weren’t to his liking. Sera had to get pregnant. And she needed Kadar to impregnate her. There wasn’t another option. “Well, then, I guess we should get this over with.” She startled, hating the resignation in his tone, wishing she could be anywhere but here. Sighing, she turned and faced the giant bed she slept in every night. It suddenly looked imposing, scary. She heard his footsteps approach, could literally feel the man standing behind her, and her skin prickled with heat. “How should we do this, Princess?” How she wished he’d been the one to take the lead. “We should turn out the lights, undress, and get into bed. I was hoping you could take the initiative after that.” “You really want the lights off?” Sera whirled upon him, indignant he would even ask. Watching her with those intense brown eyes, his expression was dark, smoldering. Sexy. A shiver slithered down her spine. No way could she look at that devastating face during such an intimate act and stay composed. “I don’t think it’s necessary to leave them on, do you? It’s probably not…proper.” 17

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“Whatever you say.” Was that disappointment in his eyes? No, it couldn’t be. She went to the bedside table and pressed a button. The room immediately shrouded in darkness and she released a soft sigh of relief. Though she could still feel his presence, hear his breathing, smell his delicious scent, at least she didn’t have to look at him. He intimated her so much she felt inadequate, foolish. She needed to feign confidence to get through this night, pretend she knew what she was doing. Clothes rustled in the darkness and her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. The man was undressing and she realized she needed to do so as well. Luckily enough the dress would slip off with ease, but she didn’t count on the elaborate hair style getting in the way. A hair style he didn’t even get the chance to appreciate. Slipping her arms out of the dress, she tried to tug it off over her head, but it was no use. She needed to yank all of the pins out of her thick hair for it to come undone and it would take forever. She whimpered in frustration, inwardly cursing her sister’s competence. “You all right, Princess?” His deep voice reached across the bed as if to caress her and she shook her head, not wanting to have such silly thoughts. The man didn’t care about her, wasn’t interested. She needed to stop pretending there was something more. “Nothing of your concern,” she finally said, immediately hating the haughty tone to her voice. 18

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Sera reached around and pulled the pins out of her hair one by one, grimacing with each tug. How many did Anna put in her hair anyway? And exactly how long was this going to take? “Do you need help?” He stood directly behind her and she closed her eyes, wondering if he was already naked. Not that she could see him. She’d seen pictures of the male anatomy before. She could certainly imagine what he looked like. Was his penis big or small? She had a feeling it was huge. A shudder moved through her. “It’s my hair. I can’t get it undone, and I’m unable to take off my dress.” She mumbled the last part, painfully embarrassed. “Let me help you.” His big hands smoothed over her hair, long fingers picking at the tiny pins and carefully pulling them out. Sera stood stock still, aware of his big body just behind hers, his bare arms brushing against her shoulders as he moved. She swallowed, realized she was shaking and inhaled a trembling breath. “You have a lot of hair,” he murmured, his fingers stroking through it as it tumbled down past her shoulders in pieces. Her scalp tingled at his touch. “It’s very heavy. My sister created the style. All for nothing I’m afraid.” “I don’t know, I’m rather enjoying myself.” Oh, so was she. Stroking her hair repeatedly, his fingers were like a brush. A few pins landed with soft pings on the 19

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floor and she tilted her head back, licking her lips. “They’re all out now.” His deep voice was close to her ear and she startled, stepping away from him. “Th-thank you.” “Need help taking the dress off?” She swore she heard his smile in his voice. Goodness, the man was making fun of her. How embarrassing. “No, I can manage that myself.” With a quick tug, she whipped the dress over her head, kicked off her undergarments, yanked down the covers of her bed, then dove beneath them. Drawing the blankets to her chin, she tried to control the trembling that overtook her body. She must look a complete fool. Kadar joined her on the other side of the bed, slipping between the cool sheets. He stayed on his side for a moment, not moving, not speaking, just breathing deep and evenly. She envied his calm, wishing she knew what to do next. Would he just climb upon her and rut like a wild animal? She almost preferred it, keeping all emotions out. She only hoped he would be gentle and tender when he first put his rod inside of her. The pain, she’d heard, could be excruciating. At that unpleasant thought, the incessant trembling wracked her body in great waves and she wrapped her arms around herself, trying to calm down. She tried to breathe deep and relax but she hiccupped, unable to control herself or her nerves. “Shh.” A warm hand settled on her shoulder, slipping down to stroke her arm. “I won’t hurt you.” 20

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“I-I am just…” “Scared?” She nodded, then realized he couldn’t see her. “Yes, scared. Nervous. I’ve been told it hurts.” “The first time always hurts for a woman, but it will feel better if we do some things first.” Her brow wrinkled. She had no idea of what he spoke, but she was all for anything that would ease the pain. “What sort of things?” “I’ll show you.

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CHAPTER 3

“Relax,” Kadar whispered, his fingers stroking up and down the soft skin of her arm. He’d never felt skin so smooth. “Let me touch you.” Serafina rolled onto her back, offering herself to him like some sort of sacrifice. Her trembling literally shook the bed and he knew if the lights were on, her beautiful aqua eyes would be large as saucers, those lush lips quivering with fear. He didn’t want her scared. Yes, he’d been an asshole to her. Yes, he was frustrated at being forced to perform like a kept monkey in a cage. But then he realized it wouldn’t be so bad to have sex with such a beautiful woman. He couldn’t remember the last time 22

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he’d sunk himself deep inside a woman’s swollen, damp heat. His cock hardened at the thought of her tight juicy cunt clenching around him, and a faint sheen of sweat spread on his forehead. “Come closer, Princess.” Sliding toward him, her slim legs collided with his and he shifted, his upper body hovering above her, trapping her legs with one of his. How he wished the damned lights were on so he could see her, appreciate her beauty. As it was, he could only make out the faint outline of her shape, the white blond glint of her hair. Next time, he’d make sure they had the lights on. “Touching a woman before intercourse, touching each other, can give the man and woman great pleasure,” he explained, his hand cupping her shoulder. Her nakedness aroused him, skin so smooth and warm to the touch. His cock pulsed at the sound of her shaky little breaths, and he breathed deep to gain some semblance of control. “Really?” “Yes, really.” His hand drifted across her pronounced collarbone, down her chest. The lush flesh of her breasts tempted him and his fingers dipped lower, smoothing over her untouched skin. A wave of possessiveness filled him as he realized he was the first man to touch her this way. “Oh!” She startled when his fingers wisped over a distended nipple, and he smiled. “Did that feel good?” 23

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“Yes, do it again,” she encouraged, breathless. Trailing the backs of his fingers across her nipple, his mouth watered with the urge to taste. To draw the pebbled flesh deep inside his mouth and suck. He circled the puckered bud with his index finger, and her body slowly relaxed. Her pliancy encouraging him to give the same treatment to her other breast, his fingers drifted back and forth, circling around and around until the little bud drew up and tightened with his every stroke. Soft coos and sighs emitted past her lips and his cock hardened more with the sounds. So responsive and he hadn’t even put his mouth on her yet. “My skin tingles every time you touch me there,” she admitted, wonder tingeing her voice. Dipping his head, Kadar blew heated breath across a peaked nipple, making her cry out, her hands clutching at the back of his head. As if nature took over she tugged down, leading his mouth to her nipple and he wrapped his lips around it, swiping his tongue around the sweet hardened flesh. “Oh, yes,” she said on a moan as he suckled her deep, his tongue licking, teeth nibbling. She tasted amazing, the scent of her arousal filling his nostrils and he moved to the other nipple, laving his attention upon it like a man starved. Her legs shifted beneath his, her body spreading, skin heating and then she cried out. Little tremors shook her body, making her writhe beneath him. Rearing back, he stared at her, shocked he’d just made her come. “What—what just happened to me?” 24

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“You came.” Moving back up her body, his eager cock probed at her entry and her legs spread automatically for him. “Do you mean I just had an orgasm? I thought that only happened when the man was inside the woman.” “I believe you just proved your theory wrong.” *

*

*

Sera lay there panting, her body on fire, her womb still contracting from the aftershocks of her very first orgasm. His fingers on her skin stole her breath and his mouth on her breast drove her crazy. His hands still slid all over her body, down across her stomach to tangle with the thatch of curls that covered her mound. “You’re wet. That helps make it easier for me to enter you.” Tracing her slit, his index finger dipped between her swollen lower lips, sinking amongst the wet folds. She arched off the bed, stars flashing behind her lids at the sensation of his exquisite touch. “I-I didn’t think it would be like this,” she admitted, biting on her lower lip as he stroked her, his thumb pressing against a hard little nub of flesh. That mere touch nearly had her shooting off the bed. “You didn’t think it would be like what?” he asked after she let out a shaky moan. “I didn’t realize it would feel so wonderful.” Kadar shifted, bringing himself fully over her, his big body covering hers. “This part isn’t going to feel so wonderful. You’re very tight and I’m, well, big.” 25

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Her eyes popped open and she could just make out the strong masculine features of his handsome face. His brows knit with concern, mouth tight, as if he were about to perform some unpleasant business. Sera’s heart plummeted to her stomach. He’d made her feel so good and she hadn’t even touched him. He mentioned the couple should touch each other before. How selfish could she be? No wonder he looked so upset. Reaching out, she placed her hands on his hot, hard muscled chest. A little sigh escaped her as her fingers stroked down, through the light fur that covered his chest, over the hard little points of his nipples. His muscles contracted beneath her touch and he groaned low in his throat. “Are you mad at me?” Her voice was small, thin. The palm of her hands tingling from touching him so intimately. “Why would I be mad at you?” he spoke through clenched teeth. “From what I can see you look unhappy. I never touched you like you asked, until now.” He shook his head, little drops of sweat falling onto her, the smell of him nearly overwhelming her. Her arms circled around his waist, clinging to him. He smelled delicious, like no other scent she’d breathed before, and she inhaled deeply, taking him in. “What I’m about to do doesn’t make me happy, Princess. I’m going to hurt you and I don’t want to.” Her heart constricted at his words. When he’d first entered the room he’d acted as if the last thing he wanted to do in the 26

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world was touch her. Now he worried about hurting her. What had changed? Was it the intimate contact they shared? She had no idea two people could feel so close, and she feared they’d only scratched the surface. If there was more of this delight to discover, then she was fully willing to do so. His penis probed at her wetness, slipping between her nether lips and she was shocked at the sheer size of him. How she wished she’d left the lights on so she could see, watch him slide the thickest, hardest part of himself deep into her body. He went slowly, inch by excruciating inch and she tensed, shifting beneath him to ease the sudden pinch of pain. “Your barrier,” he murmured, his voice strained, his entire body taut across hers. “Forgive me, Princess.” Kadar reared back and with one sure stroke thrust within her, tearing past her maidenhead. She cried out in anguish. Her lower regions throbbed and sobbing cries echoed from her throat. Clutching him to her, salty tears spilled from her eyes and slid down her face. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry. I had to do it.” He pressed kisses to her eyelids, his tongue licking at her tears and her belly tingled at that searing touch. When she tilted her head back, his mouth accidentally brushed hers, firm yet soft. She’d read about kissing in the many clinical manuals she’d been forced to study in preparation for their mating. No one on Taysir did it, not that she’d seen. She wondered if those still on Old Earth participated in such carnal pleasures. He kissed her again, his mouth softening, lips parting, and 27

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she returned the kiss, a thrilling shiver overtaking her at the tender intimacy of it. His penis pulsed within her, her inner walls relaxing with every second he remained inside her. The pain turning into a dull ache, she shifted beneath him, spread her legs so his body settled between her knees. “Are you all right?” His mouth seemed reluctant to part from hers, and she lifted her head when he tried to move away, lips seeking. “Don’t stop,” she whispered, wanting more. She wanted him to explore her mouth, wanted to keep kissing him while he moved within her. He sank onto her body, gathering her up in his arms, a hand slipping behind her head to clutch her hair. She opened her eyes, could just see his dark gaze blazing into hers as his head descended and those luscious lips captured hers once again. “Open for me, Sera,” he whispered against her mouth and her lips parted, thrilled at hearing him say her name. He licked at her lips and she groaned, opening to him, her tongue darting out to meet his. A glorious slide of wet velvet, his hot tongue sank into her mouth, teasing, dancing, tangling with hers. Shy at first, her tongue was a soft rasp against his, but soon she became bolder, twirling it into his mouth, tasting him. Nothing had ever tasted so good. She swore he grew thicker and longer in her tight passage and he began to move. Subtle shifts of his hips at first, his penis did a slow glide in and out of her body and she moved 28

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with him as best she could. “Does it hurt?” She shook her head, her hips straining, her mouth seeking his. She couldn’t get enough of him, wanted more, as much as she could before this blissful act ended. “You’re so tight, Sera. I’m not going to last long.” He pumped harder, faster, and she met him thrust for thrust. Wrapping her legs around his slim hips with his encouragement, she anchored herself to him and he slid deeper, their cries mingling at the sensation. “That feels good,” she murmured as he moved within her, his forehead pressing against hers. Running her hands down his smooth back, she clutched at his firm buttocks and pushed, encouraging him to sink deeper. The foreign sensation she’d experienced earlier threatened to take over her body again as his hips circled, nudging spots within her that tingled and throbbed with every contact. Her body strained toward its release, her muscles tightening, womb clenching, little gasps escaping from her. They both stilled and then shattered together, her body convulsing beneath his, her inner walls constricting around his thick pulsating length. His hot semen spurted hard and deep within her, over and over, filling her, claiming her, and she clung to him, their hot bodies slippery with sweat. She lay spent beneath him, amazed at what had just happened, at what they’d just shared. Never before had she experienced something so colossal, so intimate with another human being. He slid away from her and she immediately 29

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missed him, sad that he withdrew from her body. He gathered her up in his arms and held her to him. “I’m sorry, Princess,” Kadar murmured against her forehead and he snuggled her even closer to him. Her body, her mind felt as if it they were floating, and she clutched him, her arm circling across his flat stomach. “For what?” “I didn’t mean to hurt you.” He kissed her forehead, his mouth lingering and she closed her eyes. “It hurt at first but then it felt…better.” She smiled, reliving the moment when she came apart, when his sperm filled her, maybe even made a child. Disappointment coursed through her veins. A pregnancy test would be given to her within twenty four hours after their coupling. What if she was? Would this be the last time she’d have intercourse with Kadar? Now that she’d had a sampling, she didn’t want to stop. She just might have to. Reluctantly she pulled away from his embrace and rolled over onto her side, facing away from him. It was best she didn’t get too close to him. This could only end in disappointment. It could even end in his death. Shuddering at the thought, she pushed it from her mind. “You should go,” she whispered into the darkness, her voice raw. She didn’t want him to but she had no choice. Besides her father, even Jameson was probably following their every move. Not literally but they were watching her suite, 30

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waiting to see when Kadar emerged. Without a word he climbed out of her bed, leaving a void where his big body once lay. She heard him slip on his clothing, the sound loud and almost harsh to her ears, and she squeezed her eyes shut. How she wanted to beg him to stay the night with her and hold her close. After everything they’d shared, the moment so intimate, she wanted more. Sera couldn’t have more. “Will I see you tomorrow, Princess?” She rolled over onto her back, watching his shadowy form approach her side of the bed. “I don’t know. They’ll test me, see if you impregnated me.” “And if I didn’t?” “We’ll meet again tomorrow night. I’m at my most fertile these next three days. The doctor said we must take advantage.” “Then I’ll see you tomorrow night.” He dipped low, dropped a kiss to her surprised lips. “Good night.”

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CHAPTER 4

“You’re not pregnant.” Relief swept through Sera at the doctor’s words and she bit her lower lip, restraining herself from sighing with happiness. After dreading the act with Kadar last night, now all she wanted to do was see him again. Touch him, feel him move deep inside of her. She’d taken that test with a sense of dread, afraid of the results, afraid she would have to stop. There was so much more to do with him, so much she wanted to see. Without a doubt, this evening the lights were definitely staying on. Sera couldn’t help the tiny smile crossing her face and she covered her mouth with her hand, not wanting the doctor to 32

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notice. If the doctor suspected anything out of the norm, he would report it immediately to her father…the very last thing Sera wanted. Questions from her father about such an intimate act would be difficult to answer, especially when he might want details. She wanted to keep those details to herself. “Did he hurt you last night?” Sera shook her head, misery filling her. Did this man want details as well? “He was able to perform, to ejaculate? The men of Taysir in general haven’t been able to ejaculate for years.” Her cheeks heated and she looked away, could barely choke out the answer. “Yes, he ejaculated.” “Good.” The doctor tapped the screen on his desk with a stylus and her file disappeared, the screen going black. “Old Earth is still able to produce fertile humans. This man will surely get you with child in no time.” “What if it doesn’t happen in the next few days? What if it takes more time?” She had to ask, too worried about the fate of Kadar, the fate of herself. If he wasn’t able to impregnate her in a proper amount of time, would they get rid of him? Would they take care of her in an unpleasant manner as well? Her father had said in hedgy terms that her life wasn’t safe if she didn’t become pregnant. “I believe they plan to keep him around until you at least get with child. Once there’s an actual baby to deal with they’ll most likely return him to his planet. It’s best you know that he 33

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doesn’t stay here. He’ll only become trouble. If it takes three days or three months to get you pregnant, Your Highness, the royal council is willing to wait. The fate of Taysir rests in your fertile womb, child. They don’t want to risk it by rushing the act.” “I see.” Sera nodded, running her hand over her flat stomach. Heaven help her, she didn’t want to become pregnant yet. She wanted more time with the man who had shown her such exquisite pleasure. “Don’t worry, it’ll happen. You’re both fertile and in prime mating age. Pregnancy should come easily for you.” Glancing around, the doctor’s voice lowered. “If the captive hurts you or threatens you in any way, you must inform me or one of the guards. I suggested to the king having a guard in the room while the two of you procreate, but he was against it at the time. He said he was afraid it would ruin your chances.” Sera closed her eyes briefly. She didn’t even want to think about having someone in the room, watching them. How mortifying. Thank goodness her usually overprotective father relented. “The captive doesn’t hurt me. He’s very kind. He knows he has a job to do so he does it.” Her cheeks flamed at the admission, but she had to reassure the doctor everything was all right. “Good.” The doctor smiled, patting her hand. “I’ll see you tomorrow.” *

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Striding toward the princess’s quarters, Kadar’s cock swelled at the thought of her sweet body waiting for him on the other side of the door. At first last night he’d been reluctant and feeling downright vengeful. Humiliating, being treated like an animal captured only to perform. One look at the gorgeous and very nervous Serafina though, and he’d immediately felt sorry for her. When he touched her, the current that passed between the two of them had been undeniable. The sex was amazing, mind blowing. Her tight, wet heat clasped around his dick had been like nothing he’d ever experienced before. He couldn’t wait to experience it again. Her shitty loyal protector stood in front of her door. Arms crossed, chest puffed out, mouth in a tight line. Trying to intimidate, Kadar was sure. It didn’t work. Kadar could grab the guy with one hand and break him over his knee. He sure as hell wasn’t scared. “Let me in,” Kadar said in a tight voice. Sneering, Jameson didn’t step away from the door. “You dirty bastard. You’re not worthy of touching someone as pure as our princess.” Kadar couldn’t help the smug reply. “She’s not so pure anymore, asshole.” Jameson fumed, nostrils flaring, eyes lit with anger. “How dare you.” “Truth hurts.” Kadar shrugged, feigning nonchalance when he wanted nothing more than to punch the asshole’s face in. 35

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“I shouldn’t even allow you inside her chambers. You shouldn’t be allowed to look at her, let alone touch her.” Taking a step closer to him, Kadar loomed over the shorter man and glared down at him in his best intimidating stance. “You jealous fuck, you’re just upset you aren’t man enough to get it up so you can have a chance with your precious princess.” Jameson’s expression jerked, his mouth tightening even more. “I should tell her what you said. She’d toss you out on your ass.” “Go ahead, tell her. After I touch her with my hands, lick her with my tongue and stuff her with my cock, I’m sure she’ll want to hear every word you have to say.” “You’re vile.” “And you’re a little chump. Now let me in.” Jameson stepped aside and the doors to Serafina’s suite swooshed open. Kadar walked inside without looking back, anger filling him at the guard’s words. It irritated him because he knew it was true. Everyone on this godforsaken planet looked down on him because he was from Old Earth, brought onto their territory so he could fill their beloved princess with his seed and make her pregnant with the nation’s child. He was being used and he didn’t like it. He was regarded as lower than scum and it made him furious. And what would happen to him once Serafina became with child? There would be no use for him anymore. Would they return him home? Grimacing, Kadar strode down the quiet hall that led to her bed chamber. Not bloody well likely. He had a feeling they’d 36

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get rid of him as quickly as possible. There had to be a way around that nasty bit of business. The door to her chamber stood open and he walked inside without invitation, his eyes taking in the soft glow from the lights flanking either side of the bed. Glancing about the room he almost didn’t see her until he saw the lithe figure sitting in the middle of the bed, a sheet wrapped around her slender form. “Kadar.” Her voice was soft, husky, and his cock surged against his fly, the first time he heard his name pass from her lips arousing him instantly. He headed toward the bed, stood beside it and drank her in. Thick hair tumbling down around her pale shoulders in haphazard waves, her eyes wide, lush pink lips parted. She clutched the sheet to her front with tight hands, her breasts full and ripe beneath the soft fabric. “Princess.” He inclined his head toward her, his heart rate increasing. She was too beautiful for words. “Leaving the lights on tonight, hmm?” Nodding, her hair rustling against the sheet and with one quick movement she dropped it, laying herself bare to his gaze. Her breasts were surprisingly full for her thin form and he stared in hunger at them, couldn’t tear his eyes away from them. Pale, smooth skin tinged with the rosiest nipples. Hard, beckoning points that begged to be sucked and licked. The sheet was a puddle in her lap, hiding her fragrant pussy and those long, sleek legs that had wrapped so tightly around him 37

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last night. “I wanted to see everything,” she admitted, nibbling on her lower lip. “I like the way you think.” Shrugging off his jacket, he pulled his shirt over his head. When he went for the snap on the waistband of his pants, she gasped, scooting closer to him across the mattress, the sheet falling away from her body. He stared at the perfect roundness of her pale ass, her elegant body on all fours in front of him, looking like his every lustful dream come to life. She sat up on her knees and his gaze dropped to the blond tufts of hair covering her cunt. He could see her deep pink depths peeking out at him, glistening with her arousal. God, he couldn’t wait to taste her. Her slim hands rested over his for a moment and then pushed them away. “Allow me.” She undid the button of his pants, tugging on the zipper with such concentration Kadar couldn’t help but chuckle. When she glanced up at him in question, he smiled. “Last night you were the fearful virgin and tonight you help me undress? Quite the turnaround, don’t you think?” “You’ve been in my thoughts all day,” she admitted. Her hands went to the waist of his trousers, pushing them from his hips down his legs. Shucking his boots and pulling his pants off, he stood in only his underwear before her. “I’ve thought about you, too.” And he had. Reenactments of what they’d shared last night, the delicious taste of her mouth fused with his, her tight pussy cradling his cock. How it 38

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felt to explode inside of her, her own orgasm milking his cock with exquisite torture. “I realized we needed to make the most of it.” Her eyes seemed riveted to the front of his thin white underwear, his erection straining against the fabric. He grew even more under her perusal, a wet mark staining exactly where she stared. “I wanted to see you.” “Here I am.” He teased, for he knew exactly what his little princess wanted. “I wanted to see your penis.” Her hands tugged on his underwear until his cock sprang free, curving toward that delectable mouth of hers. He groaned, anticipation thrumming through his veins. “My cock,” he corrected, closing his eyes briefly when those slender hands slid his underwear down his legs, brushing against his heated skin. He stepped out of the offending garment and kicked it away. “Penis is so clinical.” “Cock.” She licked her lips and didn’t look away from his straining member. “May I touch it? Your cock?” He nodded, her curiosity enough to unnerve him. She really was innocent in every way. Though she wouldn’t be when he was through with her. Soft fingers brushed against the swollen head, and he jerked, liquid leaking from the tiny slit. She wrapped her fingers around his girth, but couldn’t get them all the way around. His chest swelled with pride. “You’re so big. I can’t believe you were inside me.” Ah, fuck, if she kept talking like that surely he would shoot 39

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off in her hand. “Stroke it,” he said through clenched teeth. “Touch me.” Sera did so, eyes wide with fascination, her curled fingers sliding up and down his rigid length. More liquid seeped out and he breathed deep, trying to think of something, anything else but the fact that this gorgeous woman was stroking him with wonder and he was ready to spurt at any moment’s notice. When she dipped her head and ran her tongue across the weeping slit, he bucked in her grip, nearly coming undone. She released him and backed away, panic clearly shining in her blue-green eyes. “Did I hurt you? I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to.” He shook his head. “No, you surprised me. It felt good.” Too good. “I-I couldn’t resist. I wanted to taste you.” She gazed up at him, all wide-eyed innocence, her lips glistening with his essence. “Is that wrong? Is that not done? You didn’t like it?” “No, it’s done and I definitely liked it.” She licked at her lips and smiled. “May I do it again?” Kadar couldn’t say a word, could only nod, watching as her head dropped and her lush mouth opened, tongue sneaking out to lick his bulbous head. Gripping the base of him with slim fingers, she licked again and again, tentative and sweet. Enough to make him want to lose it and come all over her face. He figured she wouldn’t appreciate that, so he tried to keep himself under tight control. 40

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“Hmm, you taste good.” She wrapped her lips around the head, drawing him into the moist, hot cavern of her mouth and sucking him deep. Her tongue swiped around his throbbing flesh, her lips suctioning the tip of him. He ran his fingers through her hair, pushing it away from her face so he could see everything. Sera stared up at him, releasing him from her mouth. “Do you want me to stop? What should I do next?” “Take me in as far as you can go. Don’t gag yourself, Princess, just test it out. Move your mouth up and down on me much like we did last night.” “You mean the way we had intercourse?” He shook his head. “Another too-clinical term. Say fuck. We fucked last night.” Her eyes sparkled. He swore the sound of the word aroused her. “The way you fucked me?” “Yes, exactly.” With a sigh, she descended upon him again, her pretty pink lips wrapping around his dick, sliding up and down with a slow rhythm that reminded him indeed of their fucking. He pumped against her, his cock sliding in and out of her mouth and she took him all in, her hand griping the base, her mouth open wide. Her breasts bobbed and swayed as she moved. She moaned around his cock, her mouth stuffed full of him. His belly tightened at the sight, at the sensation of her mouth on him, the way she sucked him so hard, licked at him with her tongue. She moaned around his cock, encouraging him with 41

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her hands and mouth and he couldn’t resist. His grip tightened on her hair and then he was coming, spurting into her mouth, down her throat and she swallowed, drank him down, milked him of all he had. “You had an orgasm,” she said once he finished, her expression one of surprise. He nodded, releasing a shuddering breath. “I couldn’t help myself. You’re amazing.” “There’s a lot to all of this I don’t know about.” She wiped her mouth with the back of her hand and he stood, looming over her, ready to show her everything she wanted to know. “That’s what I’m here for Sera. To teach you. Do you want to learn?” She lay back on the bed, her arms spread wide for him. He sank on top of her, resting his head against her chest, savoring the feeling of her arms wrapped around him. “Oh, yes,” she whispered, her hands stroking his hair. “I like it when you say my name.” “Sera.” He murmured it against her breast, pressing a kiss to the lush flesh that tempted him so. “Suck my nipples like you did last night.” Her voice was thin, her fingers clutching in his hair and he did as she bid. Drawing the tight bud of her left nipple into his mouth, he sucked, licked and laved the peaked tip. “Oh, I like to watch,” she admitted with a shaky breath. He glanced up to find her gaze glued to him, and he snaked his tongue out, circled it around a rosy nipple. He paid heavy attention to her breasts, remembering how 42

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responsive she’d been last night. But she became restless, her legs squirming and spreading, unconsciously asking for attention even lower. Now that she knew what lay ahead, her body asked for it. Burning a trail of hot kisses across her belly, he dipped his tongue into her navel and finally came to the spot he wanted to sample and stare at since last night. “Are you going to lick me like I did you?” Hell, yes. All that and more. “Do you want me to, Princess?” She nodded and spread her legs wider for him. “I am very wet down there. I can feel it.” This woman was going to be the death of him, of that he was sure. He closed his eyes briefly, praying he wouldn’t come again before he entered her. Kadar adjusted himself so he lay between her legs, eye level with her glistening cunt. Her lips were puffy and swollen, the pale blond curls wet with her juices, folds peeking out at him, and her clit begged for a swipe of his tongue. Dipping his head, he licked it, heard her gasp, felt her tremble and then he did it again. “Don’t stop,” she murmured from above him. “More.” He smiled and sank a finger into her juicy hole, then added another one, her words encouraging him. Watching as he pumped his fingers in and out of her, her greedy hole contracting around them, trying to keep him in place. His cock grew even harder, a feat he thought impossible. He pressed his face against her, breathing deep of her fragrance and then 43

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opened his mouth, giving her a wide lick. “Oh, yes,” she cried out, thrusting her hips toward his face for more. He pushed his fingers inside her, his tongue searching her creamy folds, circling around her clit. Bucking her hips, she ground against his face with wild abandon, so free, so open. He pumped harder, wanted to watch her come, desperate to see her come. Within seconds, she fell apart all around him, her cunt clenching around his fingers, her folds trembling, gushing liquid coming from deep within her. He’d never seen a more beautiful sight. His name was a thin whisper as it dropped from her lips, and she slumped against the bed, a quivering mass of flushed damp flesh. Murmuring soothing words, his fingers were still buried deep within her, his lips raining kisses on her trembling thighs. “All of this is almost as good as intercourse. Fucking,” Sera corrected. Kadar shifted so they were face to face. “What we just did can’t get you pregnant.” *

*

*

Sera stared at his handsome face, her chest aching. His eyes were kind, his mouth soft as he watched her. She thought it impossible a few days ago, but she liked this man. She could imagine herself spending time with him, talking with him, having intercourse with him. Sex. Fucking, whatever he 44

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wanted to call it. “Are you all right?” His brows drew together, his expression one of concern. “I am.” Sera smiled, sliding her arms around him, her hands smoothing up and down the firm muscles of his back. His cock swelled against her, and she marveled at his quick arousal. “Are you ready?” His voice dropped to a husky whisper, and he lowered his head, his mouth brushing against hers in the barest of kisses. She didn’t answer him, merely opened her mouth to his seeking lips, his tongue dipping into her mouth, swirling against hers. Over and over he kissed her, her body tingling, growing even wetter. She could kiss him like this for hours, learning his every taste and texture, savoring every minute his lips touched hers. Without warning he entered her and she groaned at his first thrust. She broke the kiss, trying to catch her breath as he moved within her slow and sure. “Sorry, Princess.” He watched her, his eyes intense when they stared into hers. “I couldn’t resist.” Sera wiggled beneath him and he sank even deeper, making her moan. “Are you always this easily aroused?” “Only with you it seems.” Her hands wandered all over his sweat slicked body while he drove himself within her, her chest aching with a foreign emotion. She trusted him, and she really didn’t trust anyone. 45

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His thrusts were hard and fast, his body battering against hers. She matched his movements with equal fervor, egging him on, reveling in his roughness, his seemingly overwhelming need to take her. The expression on his face was feral, animalistic as his cock filled her over and over, and she couldn’t look away. Didn’t want to look away. Trapped by his intense gaze, pinned by his big body, connected to him by his thick cock, she never wanted it to end. He came quickly, his body emptying into hers, her own orgasm shaking her to the core soon after. And as he slumped against her, his sweaty forehead pressing against her cheek, she swore she heard him whisper, “Mine.”

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CHAPTER 5

“Sixty days have passed and you’re still not pregnant.” Her father’s voice boomed throughout the large room and Sera stood before him with her head bowed. “Do you have an explanation for this? What are you doing wrong?” Sera shook her head. “Nothing, Father, I swear. The doctor informed me I’m fertile.” “Yes, Your Highness, it’s true.” The doctor stepped forward, wrung his hands nervously. “Your daughter is very fertile as is the captive from Old Earth.” “Then why is she not with child yet? I don’t understand! Time is of the essence and we cannot waste any more days.” He wanted to get rid of Kadar, she knew it. They’d kill 47

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him the minute she became pregnant, dispose of him so he wouldn’t be a nuisance to them or his baby. There was no way she could confess to her father she was in love with Kadar, that she didn’t allow him to climax inside her so she could continue to see him. She didn’t know how much longer she could keep this up. “Things don’t happen just because you will them to, Your Highness. They’re working hard, nearly every day to get your daughter with child. There’s nothing else we can do but wait,” the doctor explained. The king shook his head with a snort, crossing his arms in front of him. He sat high upon his throne clad all in white, his eyes narrowing as he stared both of them down. Glancing to his left, he clapped his hands at Jameson who stood to the side. “You are the head guard of my daughter, are you not?” “Yes, Your Highness.” Jameson bobbed nervously in front of the king. “From now on you must never leave her side. When she is in her chambers with the Old Earth man, you must be in there with them making sure they are doing everything properly.” Dread filled her at the thought of another person in the room when she shared the most intimate moments of her life with Kadar. They didn’t even spend every day having sex anymore, though that didn’t mean she didn’t enjoy their time together. No, she loved being with Kadar, whether they were talking, laughing, sharing bits of their life together or making love. 48

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Making love. He’d taught her that term after one night of such tender touching and sharing it had brought her to tears. The way he’d held her that evening, his hands gentle, his expression earnest, open. He hadn’t told her he loved her but described what they’d shared as making love versus sex or fucking. That was the only way she’d thought of it ever since. “Yes, sir!” Jameson saluted her father, shaking her from her thoughts and shooting a satisfied smirk her way. Bile rose in her throat at the thought of Jameson standing in her chambers watching her with Kadar. Kadar would be furious. She’d thought of Jameson as a loyal friend and guardsman for so long. It crushed her to hear Kadar talk of the bad treatment Jameson showed him, the snide way he spoke to Kadar, and the way he interfered in her life. She could only assume Jameson was jealous, felt replaced. None of it made sense, but her life hadn’t made much sense since Kadar had walked into it. She didn’t mind. “Your Highness, may I request you allow me to speak with Kadar privately before bringing Jameson into my chambers? I feel the need to let him know what is going on beforehand. It would be the proper thing to do.” “So considerate toward the Old Earthling. I don’t understand your compassion, my daughter.” “He is the man who’ll father our future. His blood will course through this child as equally as my own,” she pointed out. 49

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“Point taken. I will allow you this for one more night. Jameson, beginning tomorrow you will never leave my daughter’s side. Understood?” Jameson nodded, lips tight. He didn’t look pleased. He never looked pleased. Lately, he’d even begun to scare her. She hadn’t expressed her fear to Kadar because she didn’t want a confrontation to occur. Maybe that had been a mistake. She planned on telling Kadar all about Jameson tonight. He wouldn’t be happy. She wasn’t either. *

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Kadar knew something was wrong the minute he saw Sera’s face. She looked pale, her face drawn, eyes shadowed. He hoped she was all right. His chest ached at the thought of anything wrong. Two months of spending time with her every day and he couldn’t help but fall in love with her. He didn’t admit it to her, thinking she might not feel the same way, and could only savor this time with her that they had. Limited time, he knew. He could withdraw from her before climax only so many times before someone caught on. It had been her idea to prolong it. The sex between them was phenomenal, only got better, and much like him, she didn’t want to end it. The second she became pregnant, she’d be whisked away, sheltered and cared for until she gave birth. What would happen to him? Most likely they would 50

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murder him. Whereas before the thought scared the hell out of him, now it only made him angry. She belonged to him. Any child she bore was his. He could give two shits about this godforsaken planet. He only cared about Serafina. He loved her so much it hurt. “Are you all right?” he finally asked, taking her into his arms. She buried her face against his chest as if she didn’t want to look at him. Her thin arms held him tight, her hands splayed across his back. He squeezed her, wondering if he would ever grow tired of holding her. He didn’t think so. “There has been news. From the king. Things have changed, Kadar, and they’re not good.” He gripped her shoulders and pulled her away from him, staring deeply into her troubled eyes. “Tell me, Sera. What’s wrong?” Nibbling on her lush lower lip, her gaze skittered away from his. “He’s upset because I’m not pregnant. He’s decided someone will be in the room with us every night when we make love.” “What the fuck? Who does he want in here with us?” He had a feeling he already knew the answer. Her eyes met his, tears filling them. “I’m so sorry, Kadar. He wants Jameson in the chambers with us.” “Shit.” Kadar released her and started to pace. He got along with pretty much everyone on Taysir he dealt with 51

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except for that asshole Jameson. The guy’d had it in for him since the moment he set eyes on him. Kadar didn’t get it. For a planet full of men who supposedly showed no emotions or had no desire for the female flesh, he certainly acted like a jealous asshole. He was so protective of Sera it was sickening. “I knew you’d be upset.” “I’d be upset if anyone was in here with us, but why does it have to be Jameson? That guy hates me.” And the feeling was mutual. Sera shrugged, trying to approach him, but he stepped away from her. “He’s been with me for years. He’s been loyal to me for so long, I believe it was the natural assumption for my father.” “I don’t like it,” Kadar muttered, rubbing his chin. “I don’t either, but we have no choice.” He heard the sadness fill her voice and drew her close. “We’ll just have to make a baby tonight then.” She gazed up at him with wonderment. “I’m not at my most fertile right now. And I’m not ready for this to be our last night together!” His mouth tightened into a grim line. “I’m not going to be with you in front of that man, Sera. I don’t want him to see you, us, like that. It’s none of his business.” “Kadar.” Her slim hand rested on his cheek, fingers cool against his heated skin. “I don’t want this to be over between us. I don’t want to lose you.” 52

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“I don’t want to put on a show for that sick fuck.” “So you’d rather lose me?” “I don’t ever want to lose you.” He tightened his grip on her, pressing a quick kiss to the palm of her hand. “I love you.” She drew in a sharp breath at his words, her eyes widening with surprise. “Run away with me. Tonight.” His brows rose. “Where would we go?” “I can commission a ship secretly. I have connections. It would gain us a few hours before they realized we’ve left. More than enough time to become lost, I’m sure. Please, Kadar. I don’t want to be left here alone without you.” Sera didn’t admit she loved him, which stung. He chose to ignore it and focus on her crazy yet appealing plan. “They’d find us, Sera. We can’t hide from your father’s powerful army. You know this.” “I’ll do anything to keep you with me.” She leaned into him, her full breasts brushing against his chest, making his cock twitch. “I cannot lose you, Kadar. Please.” “Well, well, well, what do we have here? Our lovers planning to leave Taysir?” They turned to find Jameson standing before them with his hands on his hips, a look of utter confidence on his prissy boy face. Frustration flooded Kadar. How the hell did he slip inside without them hearing him? “Jameson, please. We need a moment of privacy. Your duties don’t start until tomorrow.” Sera moved away from 53

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Kadar, folding her arms in front of her. “Oh, no, Princess, my duties are starting tonight whether you like it or not. And your dirty Old Earth lover will just have to deal with it. Now both of you strip. Fuck like the caged animals you are.” “Fuck you,” Kadar said through gritted teeth, pushing Sera so she stood behind him. “Talk to me like that again and I’ll blow your head off,” Jameson snarled, his hand going for the weapon strapped to his side. “Go ahead, I dare you, you fucking wimp.” Sera’s guards had become so lax, they didn’t bother searching him anymore. They also had no idea he carried his own weapon shoved into the waistband of his pants—‘something he’d been able to confiscate from one of them a month ago. He may be rusty but he knew he could draw faster than that dumb fuck Jameson. He’d blow the fucker’s dick off with one shot. “Kadar, please.” Sera tugged on his arm but he ignored her, his gaze pinned on Jameson. Ready to draw at a moment’s notice. “She really belongs to me, you know.” Jameson’s voice was eerily low, and he walked slowly toward them. “She’s been mine for years. You’re just an interloper, a distraction. Once you get her pregnant, I’ll take care of her. And her child.” “My child.” Kadar’s hackles rose at the thought of this 54

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bastard even touching something that belonged to him. Jameson smiled, shook his head. “You have no claim on the child, just like you have no claim on the woman, Earthling. You’re nothing.” Anger boiled inside him at Jameson’s words. He reached behind his back, pretending to grab at Sera when he really went for his weapon. “You’re the asshole who’s nothing, Jameson. You can’t even get it up. You’re not even man enough to impregnate your princess. How does that make you feel?” “Shut up!” Jameson roared, reaching for his gun. But Kadar was quicker. Sera screamed as Kadar lurched his weapon from behind him, firing it blindly. He struck Jameson in the chest once, twice, three times. Jameson crumpled to the ground, eyes wide with shock, hand limp at his side. The gun clattered to the floor beside him. Sera clutched at Kadar as he stood over Jameson, watching his enemy slowly die. Several guards rushed into the room at once, weapons drawn, deep voices calling out in warning. They surrounded Kadar, all weapons aimed at him. He dropped his own gun, raising his arms in surrender. “He was protecting me,” Sera said immediately, not moving from his side, wrapping her arms around his waist. “Jameson threatened me, was ready to kill us both.” The guards looked from one another to Sera and Kadar. “So you’re saying Jameson was a threat and this man saved your life?” the head guard asked. 55

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Sera nodded, her heart filling with love when she looked at Kadar. “Yes, he’s a hero.” And that, she knew, would save his life. Maybe even make him hers. Forever.

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EPILOGUE

“She looks just like you.” Sera cradled the bundle against her breast, her fingers tracing the dewy soft skin of her daughter’s face, smoothing over the shock of dark, silky hair. “That’s rather unfortunate.” Kadar pressed a tender kiss to her lips. “I was hoping she’d look like her mother.” “Hera’s beautiful.” She couldn’t believe she was a mother, that Kadar was her husband and her father had allowed him to stay so they could become a family. Kadar’s heroic behavior had saved him. Once Jameson’s quarters had been searched after his death, they realized he’d planned on abducting Sera. Kadar had saved her from Jameson’s madness, her father 57

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knew that. “He wants us to start on another one right away,” she murmured. “So what are we waiting for?” Kadar shot her a cocky grin. Sera had no idea.

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KAREN ERICKSON After leaving the working world to become a stay-at-home mom, Karen Erickson realized she needed to get serious and pursue her lifelong dream of being a published writer. A busy mother of three, she fits her precious writing time in between chasing her children, taking care of her wonderful husband and pretending she has a maid. She lives in California. To learn more about Karen, you can visit her web site: www.karenwritesromance.com *

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