Chapter 17
I leaned back against the soft couch, glancing over at the two racks of clothing my little hoomon had set aside. The rack that was stuffed with more outfits that she had indicated she liked.
There was a lot that could be communicated without words. All it required was paying attention. What I paid attention to was how my little hoomon loved selecting clothing, so I took her shopping.
There was something else I thought she might like.
"We will take all of those," I pointed at the overburdened rack. "Send them all to the same address."
"Yes, the one at the spaceport." The attendant nodded, gesturing to one of the other employees, who immediately whisked away the rack. "We are deeply honored to have one of the Emperor's personal guards frequent-"
"Discretion is required when serving the Emperor." I turned my gaze to the attendant, showing the tips of my fangs. "He rewards those who keep his privacy. Those who don't…"
I trailed off as the curtain shifted.
My little hoomon let out a very cute sound that was similar to a high pitched chirp, as she flung the curtain of the dressing booth back, both of her arms up in the air.
The black fabric clung to her body like a second skin, hugging her curves and showing the outline of taunt, firm muscles I had felt under my hands when I carried her up and down the access corridor to the Prince's penthouse suite.
She chirped something, then lifted her knee, hooking her elbow under it as she balanced on one leg. She shifted her weight as her hips rotated, her leg rising higher as her upper body leaned to the side to balance.
Slowly, she extended her leg until it was straight, her foot rising above her head.
She held my gaze, and her smile spread until her teeth were visible.
A surge of aggression rolled through me in response.
She was so impressive, so challenging.
The coiling heat inside of me pulsed in response to her challenge.
This was a woman who had the passion to pursue physical skill to the point of excellence.
She had drive, joy, and from the way her eyes flashed at me, she knew exactly how talented and beautiful it was when she showcased her ability.
I wanted her - I couldn’t deny it.
The question was - would my people accept her?
Would she be willing to stay with me if they didn’t?
I knew where I needed to take her next.
"She'll be wearing that one out of here," I told the store representative, who was waiting with another selection of outfits. I flowed to my feet, unable to sit there and simply watch as she tested out the stretchiness of her new outfit.
It would be perfect for what I had planned.
Her eyes fixed on me as I stalked towards her.
She lowered her leg in one fluid movement. I flicked one of my ears to the side as I approached her, then nodded towards the exit.
"I have another surprise," I rumbled.