Page 145 of Alien Haven

“I know, along with the reasons for it. He had more than his fair share of reasons to become an utter asshole, if not worse,” Groteg agreed. “No sign of trouble, however. We were impressed by his demeanor when he joined us for dinner.”

“If you’re okay with him being around her, it’s good enough for me.”

“I’m reassured where they’re all concerned, especially given your opinion of Ilid. Charity has less chance of being assaulted in the company of three strong men.”

Dolgra had to point out one factor. “Nobek Detodev’s pacifism won’t prevent him from defending her?”

Groteg snorted as they started to leave the barn. “Detodev’s biggest problem isn’t an unwillingness to fight. It’s how bad he feels after he’s been forced to do so and has committed the damage his opponents had coming to them. He lets guilt for the mistakes of his youth color every instance he engages in self-defense.”

“That’s a rough mindset for a Nobek.”

“He’s willing to watch out for Charity, which is a step in the right direction. His usual reaction to the danger would be to avoid it entirely. Isn’t it a little early for cocktails, my Matara?”

Dolgra’s heart skipped a beat as they emerged in the sunshine and found Sara waiting for them. It sank to note she held the bottle of bohut he’d given her.

“I believe we mistakenly got someone else’s delivery. This is very expensive.” She smiled and offered it to Dolgra.

He drew himself up and smiled as innocently as he could manage. “No mistake. I thought your clan might appreciate a treat rather than the usual container full of packing materials.”

Groteg peered at the label. His eyes widened in surprised appreciation. “Quite the treat.”

“It’s too much. I priced this vintage when I was researching presents for my clanmates.”

Groteg beamed at her. “What a lovely thought, my Matara. I’m glad you didn’t, though. We’d have had to leave an entire field unplanted if you’d indulged us so handsomely.” He chuckled at the idea of the extravagance.

“Two fields, my Nobek.” Sara held the bottle to Dolgra. “Thank you for such a generous gesture.”

“Please enjoy it,” he insisted, hoping his face wasn’t red. “As I said, it’s a thank you for taking Charity Nath on, especially in view of yesterday’s attack. It’s the least the Kalquorian fleet could do for you. They aren’t paying you enough for her lodging and safety, in my opinion.”

“But…” she looked to Groteg for help.

Dolgra backed toward his shuttle. “I’m running late on my deliveries. Save it to celebrate a good harvest, the end of the Darks, the end of Dark Death…whatever. I’ll check in later, Groteg, and let you know what I’ve found.”

He hurried to his shuttle before they could insist on him taking the bottle. It had been a stupid move to give such a gift. He’d had no business trying to charm Clan Amgar.

No Imdiko wants to live with someone so cold. I doubt a Nobek would either.

He was better off alone.

Sara watched Dramok Dolgra’s shuttle take off, She turned her gaze to Groteg. “Being the head spy on a planet pays well if he can afford to hand out these as a thank-you.”

“I guess.”

They continued to gaze at each other for the space of several seconds. Sara could tell the wheels were turning in her Nobek’s mind just as they were in hers. Was it truly appreciation for them taking care of and guarding Charity? Dolgra hadn’t shown the least hint of anything but genuine gratefulness. Did the stunning and single Dramok’s gesture contain a hidden motive?

Her consternation Dolgra might be interested in them returned. Was the mysterious spy for Kalquor making a bid to court Clan Amgar, a family with three busy children, hectic regular jobs, and a farm that consumed their daylight hours?

When she thought of it in those terms…

Amusement lit Groteg’s face at the same instant Sara laughed. “Nah,” they chorused. Chuckling, they resumed their usual busy day.

* * * *

Charity had resolutely focused on chores and a university assignment during the morning. When Mitag commed her about joining him in town shortly following lunch, she felt justified in asking for the afternoon off. After some debate, Sara and Groteg gave their permission. They added the stipulation Mitag would pick her up. She wasn’t to leave his sight while she was off the farm.

The Imdiko was more than happy to agree. In fact, he sounded a bit insulted anyone would question he’d do so. “As if I’d have you walk to town or beg a ride. Of course I’ll keep an eyeon you. Do they think a guy who owns a business as successful as mine could be so irresponsible?”

He was over his pique by the time he landed his craft on the Amgar lawn. He greeted Charity’s hosts cheerfully. “Jennifer and I will do dinner out, if it’s okay. When would you prefer I have her home?”

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