Page 62 of Grulen

“I survived.”

“I’m glad you did.”

“You don’t think less of me?”Uncertainty and hesitation laced her voice.

“Of course not.Even if you had chosen to be a pleasure worker, I would not judge you for it.Doing what you hated ensured your survival.I abhor that you had to do it, but you are safe here now.”I want to go to Delizas and maim every male who hurt her, starting with her owner.

“I think Niksen pulling the same crap on you that some human men do on Earth brought all those complicated feelings up too fast and with too much intensity.The words I said were the words screaming in my mind on Delizas during the worst of it.”Her breath hitched.“As time went on, I was afraid of losing my sense of self.”

“That makes sense.I wish I could carry your pain for you.”

Her cheeks lifted against his chest.

“That’s sweet.No one should have to bear this, but too many people do.”

“May I ask you a question?”Time to change the subject to something lighter.

“Of course.”

“Were you a performer on Earth?”

She laughed softly.

“I had to interrupt my schooling when my mother became ill.I cared for her until she died and worked as an exotic dancer.Yes, I did that on the silks.That paid for me to return to college and get my degree.While I was traveling across the country to my new job, I was kidnapped by Durelians.”

“What was the new job?”

“Teaching.”

“Teaching younglings?”

“Yes, I wanted to teach children.”A heavy exhale left her body, and her shoulders sagged.“It’s probably no longer possible.”

“Don’t say that.I’m sure you can find a suitable place to do what you enjoy.”

“I know if I stay with theFortitude, it will never happen.However, I feel safe here, especially after the Zuvgran kidnapped me from the transport ship taking me to a colony.”

“You don’t have to decide today or even thissolar.You’re young and have time.”

She sat back to look him in his eyes.He hoped she didn’t feel his erection underneath her luscious ass.

“You’re incredibly supportive, Stalad.It wouldn’t surprise me if there’s a nice female waiting for you somewhere.”

“If so, I hope she’s as wonderful as you, Morgan.”

When her hand came up to cup his jaw, he turned into it savoring her touch.

“You’re very sweet…and honorable.”Her fingers drifted away from his face.

The door chimed.They both looked in that direction.

“I should see who it is.”

“No, stay here.I’ll check.”He lifted her from his lap to the couch and stood.Opening the door, he found Abby waiting with a tray of food.

“May I come in?”

He glanced over his shoulder at Morgan who nodded.He stepped aside and gestured to Abby to enter.

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