Page 16 of Saving the Sautiitions

“Yeah, because you're strutting your shit like a damn peacock. Fanning those tail feathers for everyone to be jealous of. Hard-core peacocking.” I raise an eyebrow and give him a sassy look. He just laughs and shakes his head. “I mean, I guess it’s better than you peeing on me like some other animal.” I roll my eyes and cross my arms over my chest.

“I could do that if it’s what you prefer.” He sets me on my feet, but his hands grip my upper arms, pushing me back until I’m up against a large tree. “Although, if I’m going to pull my cock out for you, I’d rather mark you with something else.”

My eyebrows hit my hairline as my jaw drops. Every time I think I’ve got this man figured out, he says something else that throws me for a complete loop. He’s one dirty talking alien, and I can’t say that I’m turned off by it. In fact, I’d really like his words to become reality, right here on this tree.

“You’ve got to be fucking kidding me.” I groan as I shut my eyes, throwing my head back against the tree. He leans over and runs his nose up my neck from my collarbone, teasing me.

“Why is that thought so sexy? What have you done to me?” I sigh in pleasure under his touch, goosebumps rising along my arms.

“I think you should be asking ‘what haven’t I done to you’, and the answer to that is a long list of things I’d like to try.” His voice is deep and sexy in my ear, and I shiver. This is so not the time for this, but clearly, my body doesn’t get the message.

My head turns, and I see the lake up ahead, Sautiitions splashing in the water, some heading toward the shore. I put my hands on his chest, gripping his shirt as I pull him closer, kissing him deeply before pushing him away. “You’ll have to hold on to that list, lover boy. I’m not exactly ready for an audience.”

I shove him off me and strut down the path, my eyes roaming the sea of creatures as I look for Tonya and Melodia. I hear Vahru whistle behind me, and I chuckle, glancing over my shoulder as he adjusts himself before following me.

When I step out of the trees and into the open clearing in front of the lake, I pause, my head swiveling around as I study the aliens in front of me. It isn’t long before I see one wave in my direction, her voice loud enough for the translator to catch my name being called.

I raise my hand to wave back as I’m tackled by a ball of tentacles, knocking me back enough that Vahru has to steady me. I laugh as I hug Melodia back.

“Thank you, Kari. We can never thank you enough for all that you’ve done for us. We are forever in your debt.”

I set her on her tentacles as Tonya joins us. “Don’t think of this as debt, please. We’re friends now, colleagues, even. If you’d like to become my official pilots when I need you…?” I let my voice trail off as my shoulders lift in a questioning shrug, my eyebrows raised as I grin.

Melodia sings a high-pitched note that has me covering my ears. “Yes! Of course!”

I laugh as she bounces up and down, clearly excited by my offer. I turn to Tonya, and I sober as I remember why I came to find her in the first place.

“I have some news. The Chief has been poisoned.” Tonya gasps, her tentacles covering her small mouth. “He’s been saved. Vahru got him an antidote, but he is resting. He will most likely be weak, unstable, and we’re going to need to keep eyes on him around the clock if possible. We have no idea who’s behind this, and until we figure it out and make sure he’s safe, he’s under guard.”

“What can I do to help? Criido has become a dear friend and fellow leader. I’ll do anything to help.” Tonya’s eyes are pleading as she practically begs, dying to be of service.

“Jeff and Willa are with him now while we figure everything out for you guys. We’re going to investigate this and find out what’s going on. If you would, relieve Jeff and Willa at some point. We can all take turns taking care of Criido until he’s recovered and safe from harm.”

“My people are pretty much settled in, Kari. We don’t need homes as your people do. We have caves around here, the lake to swim in. This is our home, and it’s perfect for us. I’d rather stay with Criido.”

“I understand. You do as you’d like. I’m sure he would appreciate your company.” I nod at her, understanding her need to be there for her friend. Before I can say anything more or even try to figure out a next step, Tonya is scuttling past me and up the path, Melodia waving goodbye as she follows her friend.

I look up at Vahru and shrug. “Well, what now?”

His stomach rumbles, and he grins. “How about dinner, a change of clothes, maybe some of that tea you love? We’ll go back to Father’s and investigate this with a clear head and open eyes. Sound good to you?”

I tilt my head and grin up at him. “I think that sounds amazing. He’s safe in Tonya’s very capable tentacles. I think we can spare a minute to relax with some tea.”

He holds his arm out for me and I loop mine through his, holding onto his bicep as it bulges under my hand. We stroll up the trail back to the village in silence, just enjoying the sounds of joyful songs, the gorgeous sunset, and open air. I breathe deep of the woodsy air, grateful to be back home, even if it is a little crazy around here.

Chapter 11

Kari

We round the last bend of the trail and step into the open village. I look around with a smile on my face as I take in the scene. The entire village is up and moving about, setting up for the welcoming party, it seems, and they’re nearly done. Decorated strings with baubles hang between homes, the main fire pit is surrounded by drums, and tables are lined up and already filling with food. Before we even make it to the halfway point and pass the Chief’s home, Willa is barrelling toward us.

“Kari!” She scrambles to a stop in front of me, and I raise my eyebrows at her, waiting for her to speak.

“Where’s the fire, Willa?” I crack a smile at her, and she looks at me like I have three heads. I try not to laugh at her bafflement and realize that it may be too soon for jokes.

“Fire? No, no fire.” I huff and shake my head, the smile still in place. Just because they speak English doesn’t mean they know our weird phrases. I just smile at her and wait for her to continue, not bothering to explain it right now.

“I just wanted to ask if you’re ready to announce the celebration and welcome the Sautiitions to their new home.” She leans closer, putting one hand to her lips, “I think it would help to keep everything merry and relaxed while we figure out what’s going on with the Chief. I don’t think it wise to terrify the village with news of an assassin.”

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