CHAPTER 16
Naraq
Naraq studied his companion, the light in her eyes, and the compassion she gave so freely, wondering if he truly deserved her.
His parents and brother adored her and had welcomed her warmly, especially his mother. They’d already met several times for private conversations.
Alexa didn’t ignore the sick or the elderly and gave hope with her blood to those who didn’t meet their companion on this trip. It looked like he’d have to honor her promise to return to Earth, and maybe, just maybe, some of his people would accept their leader’s offer to remain there.
“Will your sun harm me without the dome’s protection?” Alexa asked, staring at the structure encompassing the city.
“Unfortunately, yes. The radiation is too strong.”
She didn’t complain, but returned to studying the various alien flower species within the garden surrounding our home. “I should’ve brought a few flowers from Earth to add to your garden, Naraq. I like your home. It’s efficient, and above my technological expertise, but I’ll learn.”
“I’ve no doubts, Alexa.”
“Your cities are unbelievable. There are gardens everywhere, although I still don’t know the names of everything grown.”
“You’ll learn.”
“I feel like I’ve nothing to offer here.”
“Music, knowledge, and the human way of everything are all invaluable information.”
Alexa shrugged, continuing along the narrow gravel path. “Maybe.”
My gaze lingered on the pink tunic and pants she wore. “It seems your love of color has become popular among the Sanctarians as well.”
Alexa laughed. “So it seems. You didn’t really think I’d be happy in all black or white as my options, and your mother is my greatest champion.”
I smirked, continuing to watch her and enjoy our time together. “How’s your father and grandfather?”
“Father is struggling, but I think grandfather has a companion here, although he’s resisting. They’ve become great friends.”
“Your grandfather has a companion?”
She laughed again, touching a blue starlight bloom and jerking back when it closed around her finger. “Yes.”
“Does this bother you?”
“No. I want him to love again, and I know my grandmother would want the same for him. I think he feels guilty, though.”
“Are you happy, Alexa?”
She glanced over her shoulder. “I am.”
“You don’t miss Earth?”
“Sometimes.”
“I was wrong to expect you to leave. I realize that now, and I apologize.”
Alexa’s eyebrow arched. “Don’t you know, Naraq?”
I was honestly at a loss for words. “Know what?”
“You asked me to travel the stars with you, and I would a million times because you’re my home.”
I grabbed her and lifted her until her legs wrapped around my waist. “Alexa,” came out as a strained groan.
“Would you like more of my kisses? Is that what this is?” She teased, lightening the mood.
A slow smile spread, and her chin lifted.
“You know how much I love those grins, Naraq.”
“What was it you said about riding my face?” I teased, walking with her in my arms toward our home.
Alexa chuckled. “You’re such an eager student.”
“I think your human half is a bad influence on me.”
“You think?”
I stopped in the middle of the garden, staring into my companion’s beautiful face. “I think you’re the best thing that has ever happened to me, Alexa. If I am your home, you are mine.”
Her chin trembled before she grabbed me around the neck so tightly that I couldn’t breathe. “Alexa, you’re choking me.”
She squeezed tighter.
“Alexa,” I laughed out before pretending to fall in the flower bed.
“Are you laughing on your own, Ruler Supreme? Shocking behavior.”
I rolled her over and glanced at the stars above the dome. “Follow me to the stars, Alexa.”
Her gaze lifted before returning to me. “I’d follow you anywhere.”
Thank you for reading Companion. This was my first sci-fi romance and a pleasure to write. Please leave a review if you also loved Naraq and Alexa’s story. Thank you!