Mated and Alone (True Match)

Chapter 33

Misty

“I’m confused,” Flik admitted as Misty angrily braided the back of his hand. Like a henna tattoo made of fur. She needed to practice with shorter fur, and he was willing to let her go down his hand despite not letting her go all the way up his arm.

“He just assumed I’m going to marry him,” she said, pulling too tight, making him grumble.

“But you were, weren’t you?”

“Of course, I was! That doesn’t mean I want to be taken for granted. Nor do I want a group of politicians in a boardroom to plan my wedding for me. I get it’s supposed to be our cultures combining so they’ll want a say, but I can certainly do that in my planning. It’s my wedding, I would like to plan it.”

“Did you tell him that?”

She glared, tightening his braid again. “You’re supposed to be on my side.”

“I am on your side,” he frowned. “I’m trying to keep your mating from being more difficult than necessary. You told me yourself he’s romantically incapable.”

“He is that,” she sighed with a soft smile. “But damn if he doesn’t try his absolute hardest. No one’s ever put in as much effort for me as him. But that just proves my point! Deciding to marry me then deciding that others will do all my wedding planning is literally the opposite of effort. It’s much more like delegation, and that’s not how I’m trying to have my wedding.”

“I’m only more certain of my lack of desire to mate a human female,” Flik said as she finished his hand then sat back to look over her work.

“I wish upon you the fussiest, most demanding, finicky, picky human female on Earth.”

“You are a cruel friend, and with you at my side, I no longer have the need for enemies.”

“It’s called efficiency, and you’re welcome,” she grinned at him, sitting back. “Anyway, I haven’t seen his char-liness for the last few days. He and Boktare are both going to the opening of the new True Match in the city. They’re not announcing the new plans to the public yet, but both of them being there is supposed to be signaling a new change. They’re not saying anything, but they want people to start talking. Or something like that. Politics isn’t really my thing.”

“Are you going?”

“Naturally,” she sighed, spinning lazily on her hovering stool. “Part of our whole deal is me being at his disposal for events.”

“Your whole deal?” Flik cocked his head curiously. “What’s that mean?”

“You know, our thing.” She came to a stop, leaning on her arm rest. “He pays for everything, and in return, I’m his little doll to dress up and show off how he pleases.”

Flik blinked at her. “Er, does the char know that’s how you consider your arrangement?”

“I mean, he can’t really miss it.”

“And why do you assume that?”

Misty frowned at him. Why was he asking her like that? Slowly, like she was being dumb. “Come on. There’s no way he doesn’t recognize what’s happening. Paying for love is so basic. It’s older than the concept of marriage itself.”

“Yes, but we don’t have love on Kree. Not that kind anyway.”

Misty opened her mouth, but nothing came out. Because he was right. This culture heavily emphasized not being in a relationship. Sex was okay, but actually having a relationship with someone you have sex with wasn’t. So, if love – not sex, but affection – wasn’t really a thing, then why would anyone pay for it?

She slumped down. “Fuck.”

“I’m not saying he’s not wrong,” Flik assured her. “He probably just doesn’t realize what he did.”

“No, I know he doesn’t realize what he did.” She sighed. “And he hasn’t approached me in days because he’s giving me space again. I was pretty clear that I didn't want to talk to him before. He’s being courteous. And he probably won’t approach me to apologize until I give him permission.”

“And that’s… bad?” Flik asked, hedging in his confusion.

She smiled wearily. “It’s adorable. He’s so damn thick.”

“I’m still not sure if that means it’s bad or good.”

Moving the arm of the stool out of her way, Misty stood, straightening her clothes. “I have to get ready for the party.”

Flik frowned. “It’s not for marks.”

“Yes, and I need all those marks to get dressed.”

“I do not understand human females. The only fur you have is on your head. What could possibly take you so long?”

???

The raw appreciation in her male’s gaze when Misty came down the steps of Fellbud Manor made all the effort she’d put into her appearance worth it.

The traditional robes worn by the kreecharma were extremely detailed in their embroidery. For the common citizen, they could just buy pre-made robes and be done with it. But Misty was in a position such that hers were all made for her. But even with super advanced machines and techniques, there was still a great appreciation for handmade things. So, when she first began to order her own robes, she was told it would take many tendays for them to come in.

And, finally, she was starting to get them. Today was the first time she was wearing a custom made robe – tailor fit in a style of her design. And damn if it didn't feel exactly right.

The black silk of the robe was much more form fitting than what the kreecharma typically wore. She had taken their designs and had them cut specifically to her figure, which meant her bust and waist were emphasized by the thick tie around the middle instead of concealed by it. The front of the robe had both a lower neckline and a wider slit up the front, revealing her long legs wrapped in strappy heels. Her breasts were served up like they were on a platter, sparkling with a hint of glitter that she’d powdered on. The long, bell sleeves trailed low to the ground.

But it was really the embroidery where the robe shined. Instead of the typical flowers or animals or whatever traditional patterns were customy, she had spiderwebs. Bright white, shimmering and stunning in their silken complexity – the ends of her sleeves and the skirt were both covered in them. Dotted along the intricate webbing, bright gold jewels were placed like spiders. They sparkled in the low light as she approached, one big, jeweled spider pin in her hair. She’d dyed the underside back to black, but the color was so much deeper than her own, natural hair color that the two-toned effect wasn’t lost, just made slightly more subtle.

It felt good to be gothic again, only now with a Kree style flair that felt so right, she wondered why she’d never tried to wear robes or dresses like this in the past.

“Ready?” She asked, finally coming even with Tsok. Looking him up and down in approval. He was wearing white today, and it looked so good against his black fur. The embroidery of his kimono was done in gold, the shapes reminiscent of fire. It gave him a very powerful and commanding kind of aura and she dearly would love to take it off him and use it as a blanket while they fucked.

Later, she promised herself as they walked together out to the hover, his eyes still glued completely to her. She shivered in delight at his stark appreciation.

The new True Match building was right in Stutgora. It was special in that it was specifically designed to service the upper echelon of society. Because, of course, rich people couldn’t go to the same place the poors did, they might catch their cooties. The location was the top floor of a very nice, four-story building, and was much nicer than any of the other True Match facilities. It still had the same slick, modern aesthetic with a dash of hot purple. But the amenities were far nicer.

When she and Tsok landed, they were greeted by Vigo and Jeanie. Both of them looked excited, Jeanie more so than Vigo, but they welcomed them in personally and urged them to look around. There was already a decent crowd gathered. All the upper crust, of course. If the rich and famous were going to be scanned, this would be the place they would go.

But more importantly, the High Imperium made an appearance to this shindig. They were already there, floating around. Their cloak was a marble of white, baby blue, and gold, with an image on the back depicting what appeared to be an epic battle that she didn't recognize. Senior Boktare was already there as well, Fia on his arm, the two of them mingling pleasantly.

With Tsok’s arrival, it made the hired photographers start going wild. After all, their appearance here was all about optics. The first step to the announcement of the deal that would be made.

The party itself was nice. There was a buffet in what would be the waiting room. People were wondering freely, checking out the scanning machine – which was definitely nicer than the common ones. Misty couldn’t remember her scan, but she knew it didn't come with massage functions to help ease the aftereffects of the unpleasantness of the scan itself.

By now, Misty knew almost all the people that were hanging around. Even if she didn't remember all their names, she knew their faces. She was able to keep up with conversations that would have completely confused her when she first started attending events like this. She also wasn’t mad about being taken around like a pretty doll – especially not now that she was back in her own style.

Lots of people commented on her look. Some with real appreciation, and some with confusion disguised as cautious admiration. It was still much better than the derision she used to be faced with. And no one here had anything to say about her piercings. Well, some asked about them, but it was always done with a bit of envy that they couldn’t do the same things. Especially her fang piercings. Their muzzles just wouldn’t be able to create the same effect. When she pointed out that they had actual, giant fangs always poking from their mouths, she was told it wasn’t the same. They were just missing something they couldn’t have.

Throughout the party, Tsok kept giving her looks. He didn't say anything, but it was clear he wanted to. If it was an apology, she was ready to hear it. She made that clear with how she was acting friendly and open. They even talked together a bit, though the topic was always neutral.

About halfway through the night, Boktare came over. They hadn’t precisely been avoiding each other, but they were also being careful not to be too close yet.

“It’s time, Tsok,” he said.

“Excellent.” Tsok took Misty’s arm from his and held her hands. “We’re going to do the photo op now. Wait for me?”

“Of course,” she smiled. “See you when you’re done.”

Some tension eased from his face, like he had just been waiting for her to open up to him again. Leaning close, he rubbed his muzzle along her cheek, making her smile, before stepping away. He and Boktare walked towards the hired photographers. Fia was across the room, hanging out with her own group of friends as she waited for her mate to be finished.

Misty stepped back, wandering around by herself. Just looking at things. There were actually a few people here that were clients of hers. They were displaying their braids with no small amount of pride. She couldn’t help but smirk, feeling pretty proud of herself whenever she spotted them.

She should try to braid Tsok again. With something actually nice. Not just the weird, winding braids of agitation she had given him before. Those had long since come undone. But she wouldn’t mind seeing him strutting around, showing off his arms or chest, maybe even his back – though that would require him to be topless. Not really a huge downside, if she was honest.

Chuckling to herself, she began wandering down one of the halls that lead to the scanning room. No one was here anymore. They had all gathered back at the front, watching the photo op. Right now, Tsok and Boktare were probably shaking hands and chatting about nothing. Just letting the photographers take plenty of shots of the two of them getting along.

That would stir up talk. It was no secret that the two were on different sides of this argument, and the population, who was equally split, were watching to see what decision was finally reached. Misty hoped they were happy with the compromise.

She had just reached the furthest room, the scanner room, when she noticed that there was actually another door just beyond it. It was small, not like the big ones lining the hall, and it was tucked in a corner, just out of sight. A plaque on it read ‘EMPlOYEES ONLY’, and it was closed.

Well, to be more precise, it was mostly closed. The door was slightly ajar, catching her attention, because it clearly wasn’t meant to be part of the party. All the other doors were wide open, brightly lit inside, prompting people to come in as they willed and look around.

Except this door. It was dark in the crack, telling her the light wasn’t on inside. So, why was it partially open like this? Vigo and Jeanie didn't seem the types to carelessly leave random doors open at such an important party.

Curious, she leaned forward, peeking through the crack.

Doing so made the door beep softly and suddenly pull back, sliding into the wall and opening completely, like it had just been waiting for someone to approach.

Misty froze, like a deer caught in headlights. She hadn’t been expecting the door to just finish opening like that – though she really should. She had been on Kree long enough to know that the doors could be programed to open automatically.

But that brief surprise was completely overshadowed by what she was seeing inside.

White, baby blue, and gold. A field of shimmering cloth, beautiful like a tapestry.

The High Imperium was in here. Standing within this dim backroom like someone had stored them here for later. They were surrounded on all sides by big, metal cases. Servers, she thought distantly. This must be a server room for the scanner. A place for all those scans to be stored and start the actual matching process. It wasn’t a huge room, but it was big enough that the High Imperium, as tall as they were, still had plenty of room. Their cloak wasn’t even scrunched up.

But there was something weird, something…

As Misty watched, the High Imperium unplugged something from the server. It retreated, like an odd limb, back under the black shroud that concealed them. They’d plugged something into the servers. Like a wire or a USB or something – she didn't actually see what it was. Or even what it was attached to. And it was gone now. Concealed under the heavy fabrics that covered the Imperium’s body. It was the first time she’d ever even seen any indication that there was something under that heavy cloak and shroud at all.

Then, they turned. Their entire body rotating in the air. Their combot, its usual colors dimmed, still floating beside them.

Misty couldn’t catch a breath. She’d definitely just seen something she wasn’t meant to. She didn't know what just happened, but it clearly was supposed to be private.

And, she realized, was probably the real reason the Imperium was here in the first place. She’d been so confused about why someone of such importance would come here. Just to ask her opinion on their personal project? That was a stretch. Especially considering she was just a hairdresser.

But if she was just a cover. If they had some other intention in mind…

“ Hello, Misty, ” the Imperium greeted calmly. Sounding just as jovial as usual.

For a brief moment, Misty considered playing dumb. Acting like she didn't realize she’d stumbled upon something not meant for her eyes. But the urge passed quickly. She wasn’t the type to not face things like this head on.

“Vigo doesn’t know you’re back here, does he?” She asked, crossing her arms as she blocked the doorway. She was pretty sure the Imperium could force their way past her if they really wanted to, but they made no attempts to do so.

“ You already know that he does not .”

“Are you trying to sabotage the True Match system or something?”

The Imperium chuckled at her. “ So distrustful you are. ”

“You’re literally skulking about in a private back room, doing something weird to the servers.”

“ Nothing damaging, I assure you. ”

“And I’m just supposed to trust that?”

“ Everyone else in the Coalition would. ”

“Yeah, well, humans aren’t technically part of the Coalition, are we?” She frowned, eyes narrowing on them. “And you’re not making a good case for you not doing anything bad.”

The Imperium just chuckled again. So completely unconcerned about the fact that she had caught them doing… something. Honestly, she didn't know what.

“ I give you my word, I’ve not harmed the system in any way. It will continue to function flawlessly. ”

“So, what were you doing then?”

“ Ah, let me keep some secrets. You’ll ruin all the mystery. ”

“I think the last thing you need is more mystery,” she frowned. “You aren’t threatening me to keep quiet or anything. Why not?”

“ You can tell whoever you want that I was back here. ”

“And you don’t care? You clearly were trying to do this secretly.”

The Imperium laughed. “ Yes. And I did what I needed to do. So, if you tell them I was here, I’ll simply tell them what I told you. That I’ve done nothing damaging to the system. And, as I already said, they will all believe me. One of the advantages of being the Imperium. I’ve thousands of years of reliable neutrality and dependability behind my title. ”

Misty blinked. It took her a second to realize why she suddenly felt so odd. It was the first time that the Imperium had ever referred to themselves. Not the High Imperium, but whoever bore that title. Right, a title . Because, despite everyone calling them that, they weren’t named Imperium. It was a position they filled. There was a person underneath that title.

And for the first time, she felt like she was actually meeting that person.

“So?” She cocked her head. “What now? You going to take me out to keep me quiet?”

The High Imperium laughed as they floated her way. Slow and friendly. “ My goodness. Why would I do that? I still haven’t even gotten your opinion for my chat room. And I happen to like you. You’re so feisty. It seems to be a trait of human females. ”

“So, I’m safe?”

“ Always. ”

“Just like that?”

“ Your past seems to have left you rather distrustful .” The High Imperium came to a halt in front of her and she was forced to tilt her head back to look up at their face. Assuming that’s where their face was. “ You are quite safe from me. I’m not just relying on the trust already inherent in my name. Truly, Misty, I mean you no harm. I mean True Match no harm. The things I do will affect no one but myself. ”

“But you won’t tell me what that is.”

“ It is nothing dangerous or harmful. I can tell you that. ”

“Why the secrecy? Why not just ask Vigo if you can do… whatever it is you were just doing?”

“ I have my reasons. You may have noticed that my species is rather secretive ,”

“That’s certainly an understatement. I don’t even know if I’m looking at your face right now.”

“ You’re close enough. Anyway, my species doesn’t hide because we enjoy confounding everyone. And I don’t act in secrecy because I like it. I mean, I do. I find it funny to see people confused by the things that I do. But I also have reasons. And they’re good ones. To me, at least. But no matter what I do, my friend, I can assure you that I will never do anything to harm the Coalition, its people, or those people that it's chosen to protect. ”

Misty cocked her head. Staring at them. “How does a robot manage to sound so sincere?”

“Sincerity is genuine and can always be appreciated, regardless of the source. You should appreciate that better than anyone .”

Misty was only confused for a second before a smile finally broke on her face. “You’re talking about Tsok, a ren’t you?”

“The most dense male you’ve ever met, isn’t he? ” The Imperium asked, making her laugh. “ But genuine. Even if he makes the wrong choice, his intentions are always pure and good. And he gives himself into whatever he’s doing completely. Not many could make the same boast. I don’t think there is anyone more sincere .”

“You aren’t lying,” she said, arms relaxing back down to her side.

“ You’re not still angry at him. ” It wasn’t a question.

“No.” She smiled. Then frowned. “Wait a minute. How did we go from your sneakiness to my love life?”

“ Just looking ahead .”

“Huh?”

“ Shall we go ?”

Misty gave it a second. Just to see if the Imperium was going to continue pushing her. Like maybe they were trying to get her out quicker to hide what they were doing. But they just continued to stand in front of her, patiently waiting until she finally turned around and led the way back to the main room.

Tsok and Boktare were chatting, but the photographers had moved on and Fia was back on her mate’s arm, smiling like she had no concerns in the world. She was the one who spotted her first and pointed her out to Tsok.

Her male turned, a smile pulling at the corners of his muzzle. “There you are. Where did you get off to?”

“Oh, I was just with…” She turned, but the Imperium was already gone. She could see them in the crowd, talking to some other people. They must have pulled away right as they entered the room. She still wasn’t sure if she should tell Tsok what she saw or not.

“Misty?”

She faced forward again, fixing a smile on her face as the others looked at her, a tad confused about why she had just suddenly stopped talking.

“I was in the privy,” she corrected herself easily. “I miss anything?”

“Nothing much. Just the usual photos,” Tsok assured her, holding out his arm for her to take. “Actually, I think we can probably leave. Unless you want to stay longer?”

She shook her head. “No, I’m good if you’re done.”

“Excellent. Boktare, I’ll see you for the announcement.”

“Looking forward to it,” the senior said, inclining his head to them as they separated.

Misty looked up at Tsok. “The announcement? You have a date for it?”

“Three days,” he said. “We’ll hold a press conference then. I hope you’ll agree to attend?”

“Yeah, of course,” she said, getting a grateful look in return.

Their hover was already waiting for them outside. Once again, the staff saw them leaving and preemptively brought their vehicle around so they didn't have to wait. Little conveniences like that were very nice, though she was worried she was getting spoiled. There were worse things, she figured as she made room for Tsok to enter after her.

The moment the door was shut and they were on their way, she immediately spilled about everything she’d seen the High Imperium doing. How sketchy it had looked. How they hadn’t even given her a single hint as to what they had been doing.

And, true to the High Imperium’s word, Tsok was completely nonplussed.

“I’m sure they had a reason.”

“Really?” Misty gave him an incredulous look. “Just like that?”

“The High Imperium is a person of impeachable moral character.”

“They were skulking around and doing weird things to the True Match servers.”

“I’m sure they had their reasons.”

“What if it was bad things they were doing?”

“I’m sure it wasn’t.”

“Why are you so calm about this?” She asked, baffled.

“It’s the High Imperium. I’m sure whatever they were doing, it couldn’t be anything bad,” Tsok chuckled.

“Wow,” Misty sank back in her seat. “That is definitely not the reaction I was expecting. You really have that much faith in this person?”

Tsok put his arm around her, pulling her in close. “You’re not from the Coalition, so you wouldn’t understand. The High Imperium is someone… well, they’re just… They just don’t do anything wrong. They mediate without picking sides. They never impose their will or power on another. Sure, they’re veiled in mystery, but there is no record of an Imperium doing anything bad or illegal. And they have ruled over the Coalition for thousands of years.”

“You don’t even know who it is.”

“I don’t have to. I know it’s a vitulli, and I know that if ever they start showing favoritism for any one species over another, whoever is under the veil will be replaced. The vitulli are secretive, but they also don’t involve themselves in the power struggles of others. So, whatever they did or didn't do, I’m sure it’s nothing to worry about.”

“Wow,” Misty said again. “I can’t even imagine having that much faith in an authority figure.”

Tsok gave her a look. “I’m an authority figure.”

“You don’t count,” she said immediately, earning a laugh.

The hover pulled around to the back of her manor. As Tsok was helping her out, he said-

“Mind if we take a walk in the garden before we go inside? I’d like to stretch my legs.”

“Yeah, sure,” she agreed, falling in step beside him as he took her around to the paths that led into the gardens instead of back into the manor. The gorgeous fellbud trees were stunning in the moonlight, the pale purple flower petals seeming to glow. Their sweet, delicate scent was somehow more powerful in the quiet of the night. Though the city was nearby, it wasn’t loud like what Misty would have expected in an Earth city. And they were far enough removed from it that there was nothing to break the tranquility of the garden.

“Did you know,” Tsok started, catching her attention, “that fellbud flowers are the official, planetary flower of Kree?”

“Really?” She smiled. “I didn't know the planet had an official flower.”

“Oh, yes. Holotulle is the capital of the Coalition. It’s an enormous ringworld. Made by the vitulli, as it so happens. And on Holotulle, there’s a large, beautiful monument to the Coalition. It’s shaped like a spiral, and the spiral is made up of individual plots in which every Coalition species offers up a flower that they believe represents their planet. The fellbud flower is what we sent. The tree there is much smaller, more like a bush than these grand trees, but it is the same sized flower. Just as beautiful and fragrant.”

Misty let out a wordless sound of appreciation. “I’d like to see that monument someday.”

“You will. I have to go to Holotulle every Standard year for our yearly meeting. I will bring you with me next time and show it to you.” He gave her a smile. “You know, when Earth officially becomes a proper member, they will need to send their own flower to join the monument.”

“You really think we’ll make it into the Coalition?”

“Sure.” He smiled. “The only admission requirements are that you be willing to play by our rules and that your species is able to breach their solar system under their own power. I think humans will have more than enough determination to make that trip on their own. Especially now that they have a goal in mind to accomplish. I’ve seen your people’s strength of will. I have faith that it won’t be long until you become a full member, not just a protectorate. And when you do, what flower do you think humans will send?”

Misty frowned, thinking. “I honestly don’t know. I mean, I guess if I have to pick, the first flower that comes to mind is a rose.”

“A rose?”

“Yeah.” She held out her hand, cupping it slightly. “They’re about this big. They have a lot of petals. Traditionally, they’re red, but they come in a bunch of colors. White and yellow and pink. And they all have a bunch of meanings. Red roses especially are deeply ingrained in so many cultures across the globe.”

“Why?”

“I’m not sure.” She shook her head. “I guess for the romantic implications? They’re seen as symbols of love and friendship and devotion. They’re the flower you traditionally give your girlfriend or wife – or mate, in our case. They’ve got a lot of symbolism. They smell nice so the scent is used in a bunch of things like soap and perfume. They’re considered super classy and classic. And I guess there’s some appreciation for the thorns.”

Tsok came to a halt, stopping them under the shade of one of the fellbud trees. “These flowers have thorns?”

“Yeah.” She nodded, smiling. “There are thorns on their stems. For protection. There’s a whole thing about needing to mess with the thorns if you want to pick a rose. So, you’ve got this beautiful, fragrant flower, but it’s dangerous and prickly.”

“Rather like you,” he said, cocking his head back with a grin. “I can’t think of a better way to describe you, my mate.”

“Not your mate.” She grinned back. “And I’d be offended, except it’s considered romantic to be compared to a rose. So, ha.”

“I assure you, I meant it with only the upmost appreciation,” he assured her, taking her chin in hand and tilting her head back. “I like you prickly. I like how demanding you are of me. I like how you aren’t afraid to tell me when I’ve made a mistake with you.”

“Oh, is that why you keep making so many?” She teased.

“No. That is simple ignorance. And I’m sorry.” He lowered his head, resting his forehead against hers. “I am truly sorry, my Misty.”

“For what?”

“For not hearing you. For not consulting you. I got so excited at the prospect of finally being able to mate you, and to marry you as well. It is not my custom, but it is yours and I was eager to do it. I just took for granted that you’d be eager as well and didn't think to even ask.”

“I am excited to marry you,” Misty promised. “But…”

“What?” He prompted when her voice trailed off.

“I know we’re trying to combine cultures here. And I get that you probably want more emphasis on the kreecharma side rather than the human side. But planning the wedding, where I’m from, is the job of the bride and groom. It’s supposed to be something we do. Together . And yeah, we could hire a wedding planner to help, but at the end of the day, we’re supposed to make our decisions for what we want. It’s our wedding. It’s meant to be about us. The things we choose and like. Giving that control completely over to the seniors, or anyone else, is just too much.”

“So, you’re not upset that I didn't ask you to marry me?”

“Yeah, I’m still upset about that.” She gave him a smile. “But honestly, I’m glad you’re so excited to marry me. I like that. And you weren’t totally wrong. I am excited to marry you and be your mate. So you can actually call me that and not be a liar.”

“Good. That makes this easier then.”

“Hm?”

Before Misty could ask what he meant, he was already down on his knees. Both knees, pulling something from inside his robe’s pocket.

“I wasn’t sure which knee to pick,” he said. “The data packet didn't specify. Just that I needed to be down on my knee. Is one side more symbolic than the other?”

Misty chuckled, unable to keep the smile off her face. Or the tears from wetting her eyes. Why was she getting teary? She knew he wanted to marry her! This wasn’t a surprise!

Except it was. And he was already doing it wrong, but damn if she didn't love it. He didn't know what knee to kneel on, so he just kneeled on both. That was so like him.

“There’s no significance for one knee over the other,” she said, her voice breathy with excitement. “But it’s just supposed to be one. Down on one knee.”

“Well, my devotion is such that you may have me on both knees.”

She laughed as he took her hand, placing the box, unopened, on her palm. Definitely not what he was supposed to do, but she loved that too.

“My sweet, prickly female. I have resisted claiming you only because I want to be sure I do it right. And I have messed up completely every step of the way.”

She laughed as her tears really started pooling. Loving this. Loving him.

“Nonetheless, you continue to give me chances. You continue to forgive my missteps. You are as gracious as you are beautiful. I would like nothing more in this life than for you to accept my courtship, marry me, then mate me.”

Misty, unable to keep the wide smile off her face, opened the box. The lid came off entirely, revealing the ring nestled inside. She honestly wasn’t sure what to expect. She would have been happy with whatever he gave her. He definitely didn’t know or understand wedding ring expectations on Earth. Even if he did, she wasn’t the type to hold to that two month salary foolishness. He was genuine. So, if there was nothing but a plain copper band in this box, she knew it would be given with only the most pure of intentions and she would love it for that.

But what she saw made her jaw drop as she gasped.

Resting on a bed of red silk was a large, beautiful, silver ring. It had a flat, wide face, diamond in shape, but it wasn’t a solid piece. It was a web. Like the spiderwebs that covered her robe, dusted with diamond chips like morning dew. It was beautiful. A masterpiece of craftsmanship that perfectly lined up with her tastes.

“How did you…?” She breathed, hovering her finger over the ring. Almost afraid to touch it.

“I asked Davard what you ordered for your clothing,” he explained. With a soft smile, he began stroking the silk of her skirt, at the web design embroidered there. “You have specific tastes. I’ve seen you try to recreate it here on Kree. I wanted to give you something that you might like based on that. Is it suitable?”

“Suitable? I love it.” She laughed, so excited. She held the box out to him. “You’re supposed to put the ring on me yourself.”

“Gladly,” he said, taking it from her. He gently plucked the ring from inside and took the left hand she offered. Unerringly, he aimed for the correct finger without hesitation.

A shuddered breath passed Misty’s lips as he settled the jewelry. It fit perfectly. It was big enough that it covered her finger from knuckle to knuckle, but it wasn’t heavy or bothersome. It was the absolute perfect size so that it didn’t scrape at either knuckle, even when she moved her fingers experimentally to see how it fit.

Of course, it did. There was no way Tsok wouldn’t have made sure that the ring would fit perfectly on her. Not after going through all the trouble of making it a spider web. And this wasn’t some mass produced ring. This had been made just for her finger.

Looking past it, she focused back on Tsok’s face. He was gazing up at her. Joy clear on his face. She let out a laugh as she dropped, throwing her arms around his neck, clinging to him. He was too tall for her knees to join his on the ground, but he was strong enough to hold her up as he returned the embrace, nuzzling the side of her head.

“Just to be sure, that was a yes, right?”

Misty threw back her head, laughing. She looked him in the eyes and nodded. “That was an emphatic yes. You wouldn’t have gotten that ring on my finger if it was a no.”

He looked relieved, resting his forehead against hers. “Just to be clear, you are more than welcome to help with the planning. In fact, I insist on it. My people will make their own choices for their weddings, and that starts with you doing the same. Model to them what it means to have a wedding, and they will follow your lead.”

“You and the others will listen to me?”

“I will,” he promised. “And if the others try not to, I will make them.”

She laughed, kissing his nose. Right over his filter. The gemstones there were cold on her lips. And it was thrilling, knowing there was now an expiration date for the device. Soon, he’d take it off. Then, he’d hunt and rut her into the ground like an animal…

She shivered in delight at the very thought.

“Come on,” she said, standing, stroking her hand under his muzzle. “We should celebrate.”

Tsok smirked, standing, following. Practically panting after her, he smiled as she led the way back into her manor.