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They were quiet for a few minutes as Rokai piloted the ship up into the skies of Cruestace and beyond. “I’m glad you had her,” he finally said.

“So, am I,” she answered quietly.

Rokai reached for his communicator and waited while the person answered on the other end.

“I’ve been waiting to hear from you,” Rosalita said. “Is everything alright?”

“I found Mirilla, and two other females. One didn’t make it. I’ve just left them both at the palace on Cruestace for treatment.”

“I’m sorry the one girl didn’t survive.”

“I’m going to find Mirilla’s brother. They’ll never find him if I don’t do it, and I can’t leave him out there possibly planning another attack on my family.”

“I understand.”

“Also, I wanted you to meet Elspeth.”

“Elspeth?” Rosalita asked.

“She came to my aid while I was searching for Mirilla. We had to leave rather quickly and Elspeth helped me get the females to the ship.” Rokai held the communicator so that Rosalita could see Elspeth.

Rosalita took in the straight, shoulder-length jet-black hair, the wide shoulders, the muscular arms and chest that rivaled and truth be told, were somewhat larger than Rokai’s. When Rosie finally looked into Elspeth’s gray eyes, she smiled. “Thank you for keeping my male safe.”

“It is my honor,” Elspeth said, inclining her head, rather than bowing since she was seated.

“You do know if anything happens to him, I’ll find you,” Rosie said, the words were a chilling warning, but were delivered with an endearing smile.

Elspeth grinned. “I’d expect nothing less of his mate.”

“I expect you both to return safely. Rokai, please let me know that you’re safe from time to time.”

“I will. I won’t be long. A few weeks at best. I’m hoping I’ll get lucky and it will only be days.”

“Just take care. I need you.”

“I love you, Rosalita.”

“I love you.” Rosalita met Elspeth’s gaze again and smiled at her. “Take care, Elspeth.”

Rokai ended the comm and tossed his communicator to its shelf.

“Sorry about the threats. She’s a little protective.”

“She’s fantastic. I like her,” Elspeth said.

Rokai smiled as he keyed in the next trajectory for their journey.

Elspeth sat back in her chair and watched as they broke through the atmosphere of Cruestace, and the sky grew dark filled with brilliant twinkling stars. “Tell me about Jhan.”

“Why?” Rokai asked, glancing at her curiously.

“I find I have a need to know.”

“Really? Jhan? Didn’t I tell you he’s a dick?”

“Yes, but so are you, remember? And I like you. You’re a good male.”

“I used to be a dick. Used to! I’m not anymore. Jhan still is.”

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