Page 6 of Baby for the Serp General

“Yes.” She fled to her room, leaving Zath to wonder if he’d pushed too hard. Perhaps she needed more time to adjust to her new life, but he feared losing her to the past.

***

OVER THE NEXT WEEKS, he continued to pursue Natalia. He brought her treats, offered to spend time with her, and tried to engage her in conversation. She was still reserved, but he finally managed to draw her into a real conversation as he discussed the Serp homeworld, long destroyed by the Vorathans. “It was a red desert planet with an ultraviolet sun that glowed purple. Our people lived underground in vast caverns where our ancestors built magnificent cities.”

Natalia listened, clearly fascinated. “Did you have families like we do?”

“Our social structure was similar, yes. Clutchmates were born in the same clutch, and we formed lifelong bonds with our siblings. The males were trained to fight, and the females were raised to be nurturers and caretakers.”

“So, women were second-class citizens?” she asked with clear disapproval.

“No, not at all.” He shook his head. “We valued all roles equally. The females ruled the clutches, and the matriarchs held great power. My mother, Zaria, was a formidable female, and she wouldn’t hesitate to confront any male who displeased her.”

Natalia relaxed. “That sounds a lot like human society. Women are often underestimated, but they can be deadly when crossed.”

Was there a note of warning in her tone? He struggled not to smile. “Indeed. I have no doubt you’re capable of such.”

“Damn right,” she muttered. “I’m no one’s victim.”

“I would never presume otherwise. You are a fierce warrior, and I admire you for it.” He kept his tone sincere and respectful. His admiration was genuine.

Natalia flushed, looking down at her hands. “You’re not what I expected.”

“I hope that’s a good thing.” He cocked his head. “You are also unlike what I expected. I find you intriguing.”

“Me? Why?”

“You’re intelligent and passionate. Not to mention beautiful. Any male would be fortunate to claim you.” He cleared his throat. “Unlike many of my brethren, I had a choice of mates to select, and I chose you. The proctors must have thought me mad since you were in a cell and are deeply involved with the rebellion against our presence.”

Her eyes narrowed. “Not against your presence. Just the truce our government signed on our behalf without giving women any choice.” She sighed. “I don’t understand you. I don’t understand this.” She gestured to the luxury around them. “I don’t understand any of this.”

“What do you not understand?”

Natalia shrugged, avoiding his gaze. “Why do bloodthirsty warriors want families? Is it just to perpetuate another generation of bloodshed?”

His eyes narrowed, and his tail lashed in his agitation. “We are hardly bloodthirsty. The Vorathans invaded our worlds before Earth, and we fought back once we banded together. We have lost much to the war with them, and to ensure they remain banished to the outer edges of the galaxy. I can’t speak for all the Faction’s warriors, but for myself, I simply want a peaceful existence developing my designated land on Baxa when my final Earth rotation ends in two years. I want a family at my side as I do that.”

“Oh.” She looked down at her hands. “I’m sorry that I didn’t realize. I assumed you were all conquering monsters.”

“Our people were never predominantly warriors, but the Vorathans left us little choice. They are a brutal species that cares only for conquest and domination. They destroy entire planets and enslave their inhabitants. We have only ever sought to protect ourselves and others from their depravity.”

Natalia’s shoulders slumped. “I had no idea. The rebels have always portrayed the Faction as selfish invaders, only slightly better than the Vorathans. I guess I should have known better.”

“You were misled, as are many humans.” He reached out, cupping her cheek. “You aren’t to blame for your ignorance, and I don’t believe any of the rebels are deliberately providing bad information. It must be terrible from human females’ viewpoints to have to give your body and a year of your life to provide offspring for aliens.” He paused. “I would like to show you something, if you will permit it.”

Natalia nodded, curious. He took her hand, leading her to the balcony. She tensed, clearly expecting to be taken outside, but he only drew her into the shadows of the doorway.

“Look.” He pointed at a distant hillside, where a group of Faction and human children played together. Their laughter drifted on the breeze, and Natalia smiled.

“Those younglings are the future of both our races. The Faction and human governments agreed to this treaty for the mutual benefit of both sides. In time, this world will become a thriving metropolis, and you will be a part of it.” He struggled to control his emotions for a moment. “Wewill be part of it if your womb is blessed. I have taken you as a proxy, but I hope to make you a mate.”

Natalia’s eyes widened in shock as she reared back from him. “A mate?”

“Yes. If you will have me.” He bowed his head. “I desire a partner, not just a surrogate, and that is my ultimate goal. I believe we can be happy together if you can give us a chance. If not, I will have to accept your departure at the end of our year together, unless you are pregnant. Then we’ll part after the baby’s birth.” He grimaced, already hating the idea. She smelled so delicious, so right to him, that he couldn’t believe she wasn’t meant to be at his side for a lifetime.

“I...don’t know what to say,” she whispered. “I never expected this.”

“Neither did I, but I cannot deny my feelings.” He pulled her close, inhaling her scent. “I think you feel the connection too, or you would have rejected me outright.”

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