Page 12 of Maar's Girl

"So, tell me," I say, trying to distract myself, "what made you want to take me out to dinner? Besides the allure of alien cuisine, of course."

Raaj's expression softens, and he reaches across the table, his fingers brushing mine. "Honestly? I just wanted to spend time with you, Alyssa. Outside of the rehab center, away from all that. To get to know you better."

His touch sends sparks through my body, and I have to resist the urge to lean across the table and kiss him. Instead, I manage a smile and say, "Well, I'm glad you did. Though I have to admit, I'm a little nervous about trying these tentacle dishes."

Raaj's eyes light up with a mixture of excitement and nervousness. "Have you ever heard of the concept of jalsaghar?" he asks, leaning in closer.

I shake my head, intrigued. "No, what is it?"

He takes a deep breath. "It's an ancient belief from my homeworld. Jalsaghar is the idea that every person has a fatedmate, someone they're destined to be with. When you meet them, it's like... like everything falls into place."

My heart skips a beat. "That sounds beautiful. How do you know when you've found your jalsaghar?"

Raaj's gaze intensifies, making my breath catch. "They say you feel it in your soul. It's a connection that goes beyond physical attraction or shared interests. It's like finding a piece of yourself you never knew was missing."

I can't help but lean in, drawn by his words and the passion in his voice. "And have you... have you ever felt that?"

He nods slowly, his eyes never leaving mine. "I think I might be feeling it right now, Alyssa."

My pulse quickens, and I feel a rush of heat flood my cheeks. "Raaj, I..."

"I know it sounds crazy," he continues, his voice low and earnest. "We haven't known each other long, but being with you... it gives me that feeling. Like we're meant to be in each other's lives."

I'm speechless, torn between the intense attraction I feel and the voice of reason in my head reminding me of our professional relationship. "I... I don't know what to say," I manage to stammer out.

Raaj reaches across the table, taking my hand in his. The touch sends sparks through my body. "You don't have to say anything. I just wanted you to know how I feel. Whether you believe in jalsaghar or not, I can't deny this connection between us."

I look down at our joined hands, then back up into his eyes. The intensity I see there makes me shiver. "I feel it too," I whisper, surprised by my own admission. "But Raaj, we can't... I'm your rehab coach. It wouldn't be right."

He squeezes my hand gently. "I know. And I respect that. But Alyssa, instead of fated mate…"

"Yes?" I ask.

"Would you like to get some ice cream for dessert?" He gives me a toothy grin. "After the tentacles, of course."

CHAPTER 9

MAAR

Ihave not felt so light hearted in a long time as I do with this human female.

For a moment, I am able to forget that I must kill her.

The Martian night air nips at my skin as we stroll back from the restaurant, but Alyssa's presence beside me radiates a warmth that seeps into my bones. Her laughter echoes in the quiet street, a melody that tugs at something deep within me.

"I can't believe you've never tried ghorba before tonight," she says, nudging my arm playfully. "Your face when you bit into that pepper—priceless!"

I chuckle, remembering the inferno that exploded in my mouth. "In my defense, it looked harmless. Who knew such a tiny thing could pack such heat?"

"Oh, come on. A big, tough guy like you, taken down by a little spice?" Her eyes sparkle with mischief. "I thought Vakutans were supposed to be fearless."

"We are," I protest, puffing out my chest in mock indignation. "Just... not when it comes to Alzhon cuisine, apparently."

We reach her quarters, and suddenly, the lightness of the evening evaporates. Reality crashes back, reminding me of who Iam, who she is, and what I'm supposed to do. The guilt twists in my gut like a knife.

Alyssa turns to face me, her smile soft and genuine. "Thank you for tonight, Raaj. It was... unexpected, but wonderful."

I swallow hard, fighting the urge to pull her close. "I'm glad you enjoyed it."

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