Page 120 of Starbreaker

Tess relaxed against me, as if Jax’s voice or words gave her solace no one else’s could. Jealousy wasn’t an issue. I was glad she had him. He could give her anything I couldn’t, and between us, we’d get her through this.

“Merrick, you holding up okay?” Tess asked. I felt her tense as she waited for his answer.

“Been better.” Merrick breathed for a moment. “Been worse,” he said philosophically.

“Surral will fix you up,” Tess said with absolute certainty.

Of course she would. As soon as we boarded theEndeavor, we’d head to Starway 8 for the best and most trustworthy doctor the galaxy had to offer. This Dark Watch cruiser would draw pursuers here while we skipped across three Sectors—sorry, New Denver.

Mwende had already contacted Bridgebane. He’d meet us at the orphanage.

If the Overseer still lived, we had a lot to plan for. Or planagainst.

If the bastard was dead, the Dark Watch would turn to Bridgebane for guidance. At the end of the day, maybe Nathaniel Bridgebane wouldn’t make a bad Galactic Overseer.

Tess turned in my arms and kissed me. I kissed her back, my heart expanding. Despite so much weighing on us, just like when I looked at New Denver, all I felt was potential. I couldn’t wait to set foot on Starway 8 with new eyes as I looked at the orphanage. I’d stand there beside Tess and see my future.

And then I’d make it happen.