Page 48 of I Dated a Holiday Hero
“Wow. You know that already?”
“My heat is a few days away, so yeah. I can either use another nullifier or my bracelets at work, but for tonight, I just want to feel.”
Her mother blinked. “You can just admit that?”
“Yes. There is no reason to pretend. Pretending just gets you frustrated and irritated. It accomplishes nothing. You are currently either retired or between assignments, and you aren’t dead yet. Find some happiness. I remember him. He would probably feel nice and secure to cuddle up to.”
“I... hate to ask this, but you seem comfortable around actives. Could you call him for me?”
Hever grinned. “I’ve got time. Do you want me to do it privately or so you can eavesdrop?”
“I will be here and quiet.”
“Fine.” She went through the secure archive and called Nautilus’s code.
It took under a minute, and then the cheerful man, with bronze skin and black hair, was looking at her with his bright aqua eyes.
“Good afternoon.”
“Hello, sir. I am Hever. Veradil’s daughter.”
He immediately smiled softly. “Calling to check me out?”
“Yup. What are your intentions toward my rather shy mom?”
He paused. “I would like to offer her companionship with the possibility of partnership on a permanent basis.”
“Uh-huh. And how many times a week would you try and render her legless? Inquiring minds want to know?”
His eyes narrowed, and he grinned. “That would be between the good lady and myself, but I remember the feel of her hand against mine and am eager to determine whether the rest of her matches the creamy silk.”
Hever didn’t look at her mom, but she could feel the jaw open. “Is her lack of practice a hindrance?”
“No, I have waited nearly twenty years for her. I can wait longer. I know where all the cold currents are.”
“Is her lack of gills a problem?”
“No. I can breathe for her if needed.”
“So, if I offer you the ability to date my mom, can I go to your island on vacation?”
He grinned. “Yes. If she is here, you are always welcome.”
“What if she has to continue her ambassadorial work for Aksalla?”
“I can accompany her as her security.”
She grinned. “Fine. I give you permission to date my mom, and she’s still young enough that children aren’t out of the question if you are feeling particularly limber. It takes two to catch a toddler.”
Veradil gasped, “Hever!”
He grinned. “She’s right there.”
“She is.” She rattled off her mother’s direct com and said, “You two can talk directly. I have to head into town for a date.”
“Thank you for interceding.” Nautilus was calm but sincere.
“Good. Talk amongst yourselves. Bye, Dad!” She ended the call on his laugh. He was only twelve years older than she was, but he wore it well. He was also twice as broad as Krix, but the maker was definitely more her speed.
