He just couldn’t make Nera fit into the picture.
A short laugh escaped him. “I have the treasure-hunting bug now, Galen. I enjoy exploring.”
The ice in Galen’s glass tinkled. “Then become Director of Acquisitions. It would come with theMagellanand theDrake. You could travel the galaxy, searching for artifacts.”
Nik’s heartbeat was a loud pounding in his ears. He looked at the door. “I’m not sure.” Jesus, he should be jumping at the chance…but again, there was one big piece of his heart that was just more important to him now.
If she chose to stay with him.
Fear was a quick slash of pain.Hell, no. If she left him, he’d follow her.
Galen smiled. “As Director, you’d need personal security. I think you’ve got that covered.” He set his glass down. “Think about it on the trip back, and let me know.”
Nik grabbed his friend’s arm. “I…I’m really glad you’re back.”
Galen clasped his hand over Nik’s. “Me, too. I plan to whip your ass at crossfire again soon. You always sucked at that game.”
Nik stepped back and made a scoffing sound. “I’ve been hanging out with Dathan a lot more these days. He’s a master at it.”
Galen laughed. “We’ll see.”
Nik smiled back. He had his best friend back, and a tempting offer of a job.
Now he just needed the woman who held his heart to stay with him.
Nera tooka deep breath and opened the cabin door.
Alarah leaped to her feet, her gauzy dress fluttering around her. “Nera.”
“Gunn’s dead.”
Alarah rocked on her feet, pressed a closed fist to her chest. “Really?”
Nera moved closer. “Yes. We left his body on the planet.”
The young woman dropped onto the bed. Her breathing was shallow. “He’s dead?”
“Yes.” Nera sat too, careful to keep some space between them. “He’s gone and you’re free.”
“Free.” The word was said in a bewildered tone.
Nera’s hand gripped the silky bed cover. “I know it will take some time to sink in. But you’re truly free, Alarah.”
The woman turned to look at Nera. A tear slid down her cheek, her golden eyes were wide. “My name isn’t Alarah. He called me that.” She straightened her thin shoulders. “My name is Ela.”
Nera nodded. “Hello, Ela. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”
Ela made a hiccupping sound and raised a shaking hand to her mouth. “What will I do?”
Nera gently grabbed the woman’s hand and moved it back to the bed. “It’s your choice. Whatever you want.”
“I’m afraid. Where do I start?”
Nera let her own memories wash over her. Now, they didn’t seem to hurt so much. Just a bittersweet sting that underscored how far she’d come. “You start with baby steps. Do the things you’ve always wanted to do.”
Ela gave a small nod. “I’ve always wanted to swim in the ocean.”
“There you go. I can recommend the resort world of Duna. Lovely place.”
