Page 51 of Naga Healer's Mate

Islae settled more comfortably between Mila and Priscilla.The temple’s high ceilings stretched above them, adorned with intricate crystal formations that caught the light from the twin suns.The space filled with a soft hum as more people filtered in for the midday service.

“The services here are different from what you might expect,” Mila explained, her voice gentle.“More meditation than ceremony.It helps quiet the mind.”

Islae nodded, remembering Nirrn’s words from that morning.He’d known exactly what she needed—a moment of peace and a chance to connect.Her mate’s intuition never ceased to amaze her.

“How did you adjust?”Islae asked, watching a group of humans and Niri enter together.“To all this freedom?”

Priscilla laughed softly.“Small steps.I started by allowing myself to walk outside without looking over my shoulder.Then I learned to speak up in council meetings without fear of punishment.”

“Andear helped,” Mila added with a knowing smile.“Just like Nirrn helps you.These Niri males—they’re protective, but they give us room to grow and be ourselves.”

The service began with a low, resonant tone that vibrated through the chamber.Islae closed her eyes, letting the sound wash over her.For the first time since arriving on Nirum, her shoulders relaxed completely.

“You’re still thinking too hard,” Priscilla whispered as the tone faded.“Just let go.You’re safe here.”

Those words struck something deep in Islae.Safe.The concept felt foreign after spending most of her life hiding on Jorvla.But here, surrounded by others who understood her journey, she felt the truth of it settling into her bones.

The meditation guide’s voice floated through the chamber, speaking of connection and belonging.Islae thought of Nirrn—his fierce protection, his gentle healing hands, and the way his tail would curl possessively around her when they slept.He had given her more than safety.He had given her a future filled with hope.

“Thank you,” Islae murmured to her new friends as the service ended.“For welcoming me.”

“We’re having dinner tomorrow night,” Mila said.“You and Nirrn should join us.Meet our mates.”

Islae smiled, feeling a warmth spread through her chest.“That sounds wonderful.”

Islae stepped into their home, the crystal walls catching the late afternoon light from Nirum’s twin suns.The familiar scent of healing herbs and Nirrn’s unique musk welcomed her.He was coiled on their oversized cushions in the living space, datapads spread around him, his orange scales gleaming as he worked.

His head snapped up at her entrance, his eyes intense.“You’re finally back.”His tail shifted, making space for her beside him.

“I just wanted to say thank you,” she said, settling next to his powerful form.“For suggesting the temple.I met two women there—Mila and Priscilla.They understood exactly what I’m going through.”

His lips curved into a knowing smile.“I thought they might help.Mila’s mate, Brivul, mentioned they would be there today.”

“You planned this,” she accused, but warmth flooded through her at his thoughtfulness.

“Perhaps.”He pulled her closer with his tail, wrapping it loosely around her waist.“Now that you’re here, I need your expertise.”He gestured to the scattered datapads.“The human anatomy sections need review, and I’d value your input on the course materials.”

Islae picked up the nearest pad, scanning the detailed diagrams.“These are quite thorough, but the nerve pathways could use clarification.”She leaned against his broad chest, pointing out specific areas.

Nirrn’s arm slid around her shoulders.“Show me.”

They worked together for hours, Islae adding her practical knowledge to his theoretical expertise.The familiar medical terminology flowed between them, punctuated by debates over teaching methods and healing techniques.It felt natural and collaborative—nothing like her desperate solo work in Jorvla’s shadows.

“We should include more about human pain responses,” she suggested, settling deeper into his embrace.“Many Niri healers don’t realize how differently humans process trauma.”

“Noted.”His voice rumbled through his chest against her back.“Your experience will be invaluable to our students.”

Islae paused, struck by the simple rightness of this moment—working alongside her mate, building something meaningful together.The fear and uncertainty that had plagued her since arriving on Nirum began to fade.

“I never imagined this,” she admitted softly.“Teaching, helping others openly.Being here with you.”

Nirrn’s tail tightened possessively around her.“This is only the beginning.We will build something extraordinary together.”

Chapter 28

Nirrn

ThesmoothscalesofNirrn’s tail brushed against Islae’s skin as he pulled her closer.The warmth of her body pressed against his, and he could feel the steady rhythm of her heartbeat, a quiet reassurance that she was here, with him, perfectly safe.His golden eyes locked on to her brown ones, the burning intensity of his gaze unwavering.

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