Page 28 of Home

Zahn tried not to let her see his brief smirk. “It is the same information I believe Missy would provide, were she here.”

Vivian huffed a laugh. “You don’t have to perform Missy’s duties.”

“I know. After you came up here to rest, our Sire suggested we keep abreast of as much information as we can.”

“Were they upset that I just went to bed?”

“No. I believe they are all aware, as are we, that the delivery of your young one is imminent. I think they were all thankful that you are taking time for yourself.”

“Was Au’revele upset?”

“I don’t believe so, she gave no indication of it if she was. Why would she be upset?” he asked, considering Au’revele’s recent behavior more closely.

“I thought that maybe she heard me saying I didn’t want any woman in my home doing anything I’m supposed to be doing.”

“I don’t believe she heard you. She was not near, and even if she was, your quarters are intentionally well insulated to keep privacy at a maximum.”

“Good, I like Au’revele. I don’t want to offend her.”

Zahn hesitated for a moment, clearly trying to decide how to phrase whatever it was he planned to say next. “What is your plan for her? If you don’t wish for assistance, why is she here?”

“Au’revele is more friend than anything. And there will be times I’ll need a break. Au’revele is the only person I trust to help me with our baby.”

Zahn took a deep relaxing breath and let it out almost on a sigh of relief.

“I’m not going to be sending her off anywhere. She’s here for as long as she wants to be here, if that’s what you’re worried about.”

“I’m glad to hear that,” Zahn said.

Vivian smirked at him. “I would think so.”

“I’m not sure that I understand,” Zahn said.

“Oh, come on. If you can be so in tune with me picking up on the reasons I do the things I do, why do you think I can’t do the same?”

“There is nothing to be in tune with,” he claimed.

“Seriously? Fine. Keep your secrets to yourself, but let me say this… if you care for her, don’t wait so long she thinks you don’t care at all or that anything else is more important. Let her know, Zahn. She’s a beautiful female, smart and kind, and this place is crawling with single males. Don’t make the mistake of letting your pride stop you from claiming her.”

“I have never wanted a mate, Sirena. It is something I actively never wanted. A mate does not fit into my life and my responsibilities.”

“Funny how fate determines what we need despite what it is that we think we want, isn’t it?”

“I worked a long time to reach the position I hold. My loyalty would be split and that would affect my performance.”

“No, it wouldn’t. Especially if both of the things you’re loyal to are usually in the same place, or at least close enough they could both be protected at once. You just have to adjust the way you think.”

Zahn was obviously considering her words, but didn’t answer right away.

“Are you trying to tell me that every single male I’ve seen in your military is single and unmated?”

“Not at all. Most are mated. They fight more passionately in battle because they are keeping their planet safe for their mates back home.”

“That’s all I’m saying. Think about it.”

“I will, Sirena. In the meantime, I will keep you safe from palace staff that wishes to make your life easier.”

“Okay, that was the most passive-aggressive thing I’ve ever heard said!” she said with a laugh.

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