Page 41 of Captain's Companion

In the bedroom, he stripped the sheets and blankets, replacing them with clean warm ones. He piled the pillows how she liked them. Keeping an ear out for her, he got out clothes to wear for his shift. He wanted desperately to stay with her but knew he needed to be on the bridge. Opening the comp, he ordered food for her.

He set the bot to clean the floor, hoped it finished before she got out of the tub. Stepping into the lounge, he piled the remains from their meal last night onto the trolley and programmed it to return to the kitchens.

Stepping back into their bedroom, he put her tablet by the bed. He surveyed the room to see if he could do anything more to make her comfortable.

“Ulrik,” she called. He heard water sloshing in the bathroom.

“Right here,” he said stepping into the bathroom. He glanced at the clock.

“I thought you left,” she said.

“Not yet,” he said.

“You’re going to be late,” she said.

“I need a kiss to hold me over,” he said.

“Kisses rile up little Ulrik,” she said smiling.

“But I must have them,” he said leaning over the tub. She reached up for him, pressed her mouth to his.

“I think I’m addicted to you,” she whispered. “I don’t want you to go.”

“I don’t want to go,” he said. “I’d rather curl up with you.”

“Naked,” she asked.

“Yes,” he said. “Stars in the universe, it’s the best way to be with you.”

She tugged until their lips met again. An alarm jarred them apart. “I’m beginning to hate those,” she said as she sank back into the water.

“Agreed,” he said. “Sleep well.”

“Will you come to me for lunch,” she asked.

“Yes,” he said kissing the top of her head. “I’ll let you know if I’m delayed.”

“Okay,” she said.

Chapter 5

“How many children,” Gwyn asked.

“In the crew,” Mina said. “There’s about fifteen but with the settlers onboard we have a lot more children.”

“I’m sure. Children are important for the settlements,” Gwyn said.

“Children are important for everyone,” Mina said.

“Will you have… never mind,” Gwyn said.

“Yes, I want children but not yet,” Mina said. “Plav is too demanding right now. I’m not sure he’ll stop being demanding ever but for right now, I’m thrilled it’s the two of us.”

Gwyn smiled, swallowed as a lump clogged her throat. “You’re very lucky to have someone you trust so much in your life,” she said softly.

Mina reached out a hand and gripped her arm. “I know it’s not been long for you and the captain, but you can trust him. If you’ve got a Sinivite telling you he’s your mate, you have someone for life.”

“People don’t stick,” Gwyn said. “I’ll enjoy our time together, but I have a contract.”

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