Page 19 of His Clever Captive

And I punch his thick bicep before taking his hands. “I’ve never been more sure about anything in my life, my mate.”

He smiles, and I swear his electric violet eyes tear up.

The vows are quick—no flowery speeches, just raw promises hissed between kisses. When the officiant pronounces us bonded, Vex dips me so low my hair brushes the floor, kissing me like he’s claiming not just my lips, but every fear, every hope, and every tomorrow.

The reception is a flurry of alien delicacies and celebration. Berrix and Nor’Veth attempt a dance, their tails tangling. Faylid faceplants into his cake after too much rojok.Typical.

I’m laughing at Af’soq’s impression of Vex’s pre-wedding panic when Zadren strides over to Ryz, his brow furrowed. The head of security murmurs something, and Ryz’s relaxed posture tightens.

“What’s wrong?” Gwen asks.

“Not sure,” Zadren replies evenly. “Anomaly on the perimeter scans. Signature’s cloaked, but…”

Ryz rises, kingly authority sharpening his tone. “Evacuate the guests. Gently. No panic.”

“Yes, Commander,” Zadren says, heading off to the control room.

Xi suddenly goes ramrod straight, dropping her drink. Her pupils flare oracle-white. “They’re coming.”

Vex stills, his arm sliding possessively around my waist. “Who’s coming, Xi?”

But Xi’s caught in a trance.

Ryz pulls Gwen over to him, and Iris slides next to Tak.

All of us stand together and look at one another.

I should be terrified, but being here with my best friends, their mates, and mine…

I’m ready.

We’re ready.

So whoever you are…BRING IT ON.

---