Page 4 of His Innocent Mate

“So? It’s not like I can do jack shit about that.”

“Actually, there is something you can do, and in exchange for your cooperation, not only will you never have to go hungry again, but your siblings will be given a home.”

“A home? Their home is with me.”

“I’m sorry, I misspoke. A home with a loving couple that longs to have children to care for.”

“You have some nerve,” I seethe through clenched teeth.

“Fine. If you want to take them and leave, you can.”

“Go get them for me.”

“First, let me give you a little warning.”

“You’re making threats now?” I scoff.

“Once you leave, there’s no returning,” she deadpans.

“Noted.”

“Do you honestly think you’ll be able to feed your brother and sister, clothe them, and find them shelter?”

“Of course I can!”

“You weren’t doing a very good job of it before we showed up.”

I reply with silence, because what can I say? She’s right.

“I’m going to make you an offer you shouldn’t refuse.”

“Watch me.”

“There’s a cabin in the woods.”

“Yeah, that was my home.”

“A different cabin, one that’s set up with modern amenities.”

“What about it?”

“We want you to live there and tend to it. The work will be plentiful, but the rewards, great.”

“Cut to the chase.”

“You won’t get to live there alone, or with your siblings. As I’ve said, the goal of Venus Quarantine Initiative is to secure a future for mankind…”

“What does that have to do with me?”

“Because in order for mankind to rebuild, there is one crucial element that is difficult to obtain.”

“Which is?”

“Babies.”

“What does this have to do with Caleb and Carrie? They’re kids.”

“It’s not them we’re interested in. It’s you, and your ability to conceive.”

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