Page 24 of Taming the Alien Outlaw
Olivia’s mouth falls open and, with a laugh, she throws a piece of food at me. “You are such an asshole.”
I catch it mid-air and toss it in my mouth with a laugh. We finish our meal in a comfortable silence that is only interrupted by Olivia’s occasional question of what she is eating and her commenting on her preferences.
“You know, I never had real food until we stepped foot on the ship you all sent to pick us up on Earth.”
“Yes, you mentioned something to that effect before.” It is still not a fact I can comprehend. What kind of place does Olivia come from?
“I swore when I got here, I was going to experience everything your planet had to offer in regards to food. So far, you don’t disappoint.”
“What has been your favorite thing?” I wish to soak up all there is to know about her.
“Hmm, good question.” She sits still as if contemplating her answer. “I’d have to say it was the tannek at Erik’s place in the market center.”
Perhaps when I am the prince, I will take Olivia back to this place and she can share this meal with me.
Chapter 11
Olivia
It feels almost normal sitting here with Janik having a simple conversation about our favorite food. Like I’m not a captive and he my captor. Because I don’t feel like a prisoner. It’s not due to the accommodations either. It’s because of him. I’m annoyed by the fact, too.
“As enjoyable as this has been, I need to attend a meeting.” Janik rises with his tray in hand.
“I don’t suppose you’d let me come?” Not that I particularly want to, but I don’t want to be left alone either.
“Unfortunately, that isn’t a good idea.”
His answer doesn’t surprise me. “Worried I’ll tell Alik all your secret plans?”
Janik’s smile is far too smooth. “Not at all.”
I glance around. “If you’re finally going to make this place feel like a prison, do you at least have something to keep me entertained while you’re gone?”
“How about I have someone bring you a data pad to read on? The communication capabilities will be disabled, but you will at least be able to occupy yourself. I will also leave someone outside the door so if you wish to explore the camp, you may.”
“A guard, you mean?” I glare.
Janik inclines his head. “Think of him as your personal tour guide.”
“Sure.” Since these are most likely the only concessions he’s going to give, I don’t push my luck. “Do you know how long you’ll be gone?”
That familiar cocky grin appears. “Why? Will you miss me?”
I raise my middle finger in response.
Janik narrows his gaze. “What does that mean?”
“It’s no in sign language.” I press my lips together to keep from laughing.
His gaze bores into me. “I suspect this is a lie.”
My mouth falls open and I palm my chest in fake affront. “Do you really think I would lie to you? My feelings are hurt.”
Janik shakes his head. “I am leaving. Don’t walk around by yourself. We have too little kanet powder here for you to do so. Wait for the guide I send.”
Damn, when he puts it that way, I reconsider trying to escape. Better to bide my time and make an actual plan. “I still think you mean guard.”
“Don’t forget.” Janik heads for the door, but glances over his shoulder. His gaze holds mine for several seconds. “Try to stay out of trouble while I’m gone.”
