Page 3 of Jorax
As he finally hovers me to my rental house, I’m giddy with wine and captivated by this charismatic, mysterious man. The night air tingles with promise. I have a feeling my time here on Hallion will be full of discoveries, and Icaron promises to be an enchanting guide.
Chapter Four
Jorax
Glancing up at the clock, I note it’s nearly time for Syrryn’s first day of work. I must admit, a part of me dreads her arrival. No doubt my appearance disgusts her, as it does everyone. I can’t blame them—I’m hideous. My patchwork flesh and jigsaw face could send even the boldest souls running.
I’ve worked alone in this laboratory for years. None can bear to remain in my presence beyond the shortest professional interactions. The isolation suits me; I need no friends or companions beyond my research.
And yet… when Icaron introduced Syrryn, her warm eyes held no disgust as she took in my misshapen form. Her initial surprise was replaced with curiosity. Then pity showed on her gentle face. Could she truly accept me as her colleague? The scientist in me scoffs at such fanciful imaginings. She’ll be repelled, as are all the rest. Still, hope flickers traitorously inside me.
At precisely 8 o’clock, the laboratory door opens. Syrryn enters in a wave of freckles and chestnut hair.
“Good morning.” Her tone is bright as she sets her bag aside.
My answering rasp emerges fainter than anticipated. Her unaffected smile loosens my tight chest. Does she not see my ugliness? But no—as she crosses the room, scanning the equipment, her gaze slides over my gnarled features without judgment. Astonishing.
“Dr. Jorax Xyron,” I croak, finding my voice and assuming she doesn’t remember my name. “Let me give you a tour of the lab and facilities.”
For the next hour, Syrryn peppers me with thoughtful questions as I give her a more thorough tour of our lab and give her passwords to my research. Her keen mind and self-assurance set me further at ease. There is no cloying flattery or revulsion in her candid interest, only genuine scientific curiosity. Each insight reveals her brilliance. Her specialty in virology will be the perfect addition to my existing research. Icaron was wise to hire this human for our project.
When we return to our shared lab, I clear my throat. “I understand if working alongside me may be… uncomfortable. Please let me know if any adjustments would aid your productivity or peace of mind.” I gesture self-consciously at my grotesque body.
Syrryn frowns. “Why would that be necessary? You’ve already made me feel quite welcome here.”
I blink. Can she truly mean it?
“Because my, er, appearance can be… jarring.” The perpetual understatement. “I wouldn’t want it to hinder our professional relationship in any way.”
Understanding lights her eyes. “Jorax, please don’t trouble yourself. I’m honored to work with someone of your esteemed capabilities, period. I’ve studied some of your existing work in preparation for my first day. Your brilliance and dedication to this research far outweigh superficial concerns.”
My breath heaves in my chest.Brilliant?She sees beyond this loathsome exterior to the person within. For so long, I’ve believed myself fated to live in the shadows—shunned, alone, rejected. Could Syrryn be the first to truly accept me, scars and all?
I duck my head to hide my sudden emotion. “You’re too kind. Now, let me bring you up to speed on the Eryxi research…”
Over the next few weeks, Syrryn establishes herself as a keen collaborator. Each new proposal builds upon the last with startling ingenuity. She adjusts protocols based on my suggestions, strengthening our approaches. Respect grows between us with each breakthrough and setback weathered together.
After these weeks working together, I can deny the truth no longer: I’ve found an intellectual equal at last. Syrryn perceives my humanity despite my appearance. A formidable mind glows behind those compassionate green eyes. How long have I ached for such basic acceptance?
Although I’ll never have what my heart yearns for in my quiet solitary moments—a mate, a female who loves me—just having a lab partner who can look at me without wincing is still something I’ve dreamed of for years.
Chapter Five
Syrryn
I smooth my hands over the black dress I chose for my date with Icaron. After what I think was consistent, though subtle, flirting all week, his invitation to take me out makes my pulse race. Still, a sliver of doubt winds through me. Most females would swoon over his attention, so why this hesitance?
There aren’t many aliens on Earth. We’ve only known of alien existence for about fifty years, and most alien species consider us the intergalactic version of hillbillies on a backwater planet so they only come to exchange trade goods. Perhaps my trepidation is because I’ve never spent any time in such close proximity to another species.
As I add the final touch of glossy, pink lipstick, the doorbell chimes. After taking a steadying breath and sliding my hand over my hair which is tucked into a messy bun at my nape, I open the door.
Icaron stands in the doorway wearing a fashionable black suit that accentuates his tall, lean frame. His glacial blue eyes travel over me appreciatively. “You look stunning, Syrryn.”
Heat floods my cheeks at his generous praise. “Thank you. I can’t wait to see where you’re taking me.”
He escorts me to a hover-limo with plush black leather seats. As we glide through the city, neon lights flash by in a dazzling display. Icaron pops a bottle of champagne and pours two crystal flutes. I could get used to treatment like this.
“To new adventures.” His toast is punctuated by a devastating smile. His glinting fangs are growing on me. That hint of danger makes my pulse skitter.
