6. Shane
Chapter 6
Shane
T he depth of the beautiful connection Arden had with Vai, Rally, and Kano washed over Shane. He loved being with them. He’d yearned to have a family again.
He and his sister, Irene, felt the call of Space ever since they learned of its possibility. When the L.I.O. accepted their application, they went.
The memory of his parents’ disappointment scoured him, making his stomach bitterly churn.
Shane shook his head, willing his thoughts to happier things.
Being Honored was amazing, he loved the advantages of being boosted. Irene had told him one of the best parts of being an Honored Nessa was her complete control over her fertility. They both were happy.
Wind loudly creaked the edges of their dream-scape, but wasn’t felt inside the coziness of their dream.
He turned to Arden, still in Rally’s embrace, reaching up to stroke her shoulder.
“ You know, we ’ ve never talked about kids. Do you want them?”
“ Sure, but not now. Not for a long time, really.”
Shane nodded.
“ I ’ m good with that. I don ’ t feel ready to be a daddy yet. But I like the idea of it.”
Arden swept her gaze over the spirit-forms of their Lio.
“ What about you? Vai? Rally? Kano?”
Kano was sure and steady.
“ We wait for your readiness, Arden. We had no other expectations. We belong with you. We are yours. Young will be born when you desire it. We are content.”
Shane grinned.
“ That ’ s settled!”
A sizzling, unhappy hum dragged low and insidious, becoming thin and airy before dissipating.
Vai hugged Shane from behind and gave him a kiss on the shoulder.
“ Well done, Shane.”
“ What?”
Vai smiled.
“ You pushed the malicious spirit away by focusing on the good, as is your nature. A natural defense, my love. A powerful one.”
Shane was surprised, then relieved. He’d never thought of cheerfulness as powerful before.
I like it!