Page 2 of Orin

I frowned. “I've heard the Protectorate Forces are having a hard time keeping up with the attacks on some of the smaller planets?” In fact, it was common knowledge among my fellow guards, but I hadn't heard it from Trex himself yet.

“The Unknown are no doubt behind the attacks on vulnerable planets. Even with extra ships, it is difficult to keep up with the onslaught of problems. The Krilex appears to be backing off...I guess that is something.” Trex’s mouth twisted.

“Have there been any new discoveries of shapeshifters?” I asked.

“Not that I know of. Council member Vimur and advisor Xilta are doing their best to keep me informed. Ixul leaders have become more accommodating as they realize the severity of the threat.”

A shudder ran through me. We were aware of the two shapeshifters found on Alara. Their confessions proved they were not only after mining resources on the planet, but wanted females to use as incubators for their offspring. Gods only knew what they had planned for Alara and the Protectorate.

Their threats about removing the Monarchy and taking down the Protectorate Alliance were being taken seriously. The warriors and leaders on Alliance worlds were more diligent than ever in trying to stop the encroaching enemies.

LEAVING THE PALACEfor the city guard even for a short while, made me apprehensive. After meeting with King Trex, I found myself tempted to take a detour past Olivia's suite. It had become something I did more than I cared to admit to myself.

As usual, I found myself lingering outside her door, hoping to catch a whiff of her one-of-a-kind, soft, powdery fragrance. It was as essential to me as the very air I needed to survive.

The incredible human had captivated me. There were instances where I almost found the confidence to approach her, allured by her glances and sweet smiles. But I hesitated because I lacked confidence.

Instead, I did my duty as a warrior, hoping I could move past my feelings for her. However, they had only become even stronger. The desire to hold Olivia consumed me. I wished I could convey all the love and admiration I had for her while getting lost in her sparkling brown eyes.

Despite lacking personal experience with female intimacy, I had a thorough grasp of the essential aspects of mating. I knew that beneath her clothing lay a coveted prize, beckoning me to claim it.

My thoughts and dreams were haunted by Olivia. Each time I contemplated going to her, I stopped myself, fearing I would only end up losing her. What if I was unable to keep her safe? The thought of losing Olivia was too much.

Being rejected by her would be evenmorepainful.

I found myself making excuses instead of summoning the courage to talk to her. The turmoil I’d been feeling gnawed at me, leaving me restless and uncertain. Deep down, I suspected she was my K’sha. But I felt powerless to act on it.

Each time I contemplated approaching her, my fears constructed an unbreakable wall that appeared impossible to overcome. With every passing cycle and the growth of theyoungling inside Olivia, my concerns about being a worthy mate for her grew.

I had no memory of my own parents. What knowledge did I have about fatherhood?

2

Olivia

FOUR MONTHS HAD GONEby in a flash since I first found myself on an alien slave planet. It was insane. I never expected to hear myself utter those words.‘I was abducted by aliens.’

Shaking my head, I reminded myself that my life began to fall apart two months before that. When I told my boyfriend, Roger, I was pregnant, and he ended our relationship.

Then, while driving home from work, my car broke down on a side road, leaving me stranded. As if things couldn’t get any worse, I was taken away by aliens while sitting in my car crying over the state of my life.

In a world where humans inhabited colonies and space stations throughout the Milky Way and beyond, encounters with aliens were no longer a rare occurrence.

Despite my knowledge of alien existence, I had never come face to face with one.

It was a shocking experience to wake up and realize that I was stranded on an alien planet. Several more women had been abducted, which was the only saving grace. Having them around prevented me from getting too overwhelmed and losing my mind.

The Krilex, an alien race, had plans to enslave us after purchasing us from our abductors, the Zinids. We were fortunate that the Protectorate warriors saved us in time to stop the reptilian aliens from taking us.

On the Protectorate spaceship, we were guarded by a gorgeous warrior protector named Orin. My heart flutteredevery time I thought about him even though he didn’t acknowledge me now that we were on the planet Alara. Well, hedidsometimes smile and say hello. But that was the extent of it.

My smile faded as I looked at my reflection staring back at me. Running my hands over my light-brown curls, I took a moment to appreciate how the pale blue dress with navy accents hugged my growing belly and swollen bosom. My pregnancy bump had become increasingly noticeable each week, and at about eight months pregnant, it was impossible to hide.

Not that Iwantedto hide it. I was excited to meet my baby despite everything.

“Olivia, it is time to meet Queen Grace for lunch.” The male AI voice made me jump.

You would think I’d be used to it by now.“Thanks,” I said aloud.

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