Collateral Trade (24 page)

“Tian?” Sharell was certain she had not mentioned the planet’s name.

“You called it a landfill.” His blue eyes lit and she could see the emotion pulsing through them. “No other planet holds that distinction.”

Sharell stared around in confusion and looked up at Chaya. “How did you guys get here so quickly?”

Chaya’s jaw clenched and Tian hugged her closer. “You have been gone almost a year, Sharell. Our brothers and Milana are most anxious to introduce you to your nephews.” For the second time, Tian caught her as she fainted.

There was a three-day celebration on Vallasteria, complete with ceremonies on the altar. Sharell spent time with Rue downing shots of some wine from Lameria, before Isari collected her to go back home. Tempest wore her caftan of her position of Magistrate of Commerce, complete with her black spikey hair and dark gothic makeup. Sharell hugged her goodbye when they stood by the shuttle.

She was ready to return to her tree house and the beauty of the colorful pods at night. With all the commotion and partying, she had yet to spend time with her twins when someone was not interrupting to congratulate them. At last, they were settled into their quarters on the battleship and heading to Actana.

In quarters, both men sat beside her on the sofa and she felt the devotion Tian sent in waves. It was filled with painful fear that slowly disappated to such an intense passion it took her breath away. She smiled and laughed softly, “I’ve missed you too.”

“You will not leave us again, Sharell.”

She turned and ran her fingers down Chaya’s cheek. Her strong protector had been terrified when he learned the Ancient’s true plan. He was left with the unconscionable decision to will her towards the mysterious slip-streams. Chaya still wrestled with the emotion over his duty to destroy Aquadea if the women failed.

Sharell stretched up to kiss his lips. “I will never leave your protection again, Chaya.”

They spent the week rarely leaving their quarters. When the acting Commander informed them they were orbiting Actana, Sharell insisted her twins bring her to the bridge. She climbed the ledge to the viewport and cried while she looked at the beautiful rainbow planet. Her mind raced back to the destruction of Rashilla Three, and she imagined what could have happened.

Chaya and Tian took her hands to lead her away. “It’s time to go home,” Chaya said.

She followed her mates to the shuttle, and when Tian closed the hatch she walked towards the front. Her wide green eyes looked up at her mates. “Can I drive?”

Chaya rumbled a laugh. “No driving. And no more space, once we reach Actana.” He straightened and shook his dark mane. “You will behave like a proper mate and do as I say.”

Sharell licked her lips and smiled. “I guess I need to be trained.” Somehow, the thought was not nearly as unappealing as it used to be.