E:A Vol 1 Ch 18—August 31, 2177

At just over six months, Victoria’s baby bump had turned into a mountain and she was uncomfortable most of the time. But despite her discomfort, she was happy. She continued to work on Terra 2, filling in for Becket until they found a new Chief Medical Officer. He’d been gone about three and a half months, and there was still no word of who’d take his place. Vince had talked with Victoria about taking the position, but it was out of the question. Zy’nayth wouldn’t allow it; the children were to be her first priority. Until she went into labor or they found a new CMO, Victoria was still considered the interim Chief Medical Officer.

“Ow!” she said just after waking from a restless sleep.

Zy’nayth woke immediately. “What is wrong?”

“They’re kicking up quite a storm.”

“Ah,” he said and slid his hand under the sheet to rest on her stomach, “my little warriors are already training.”

Victoria giggled, “They could at least have the decency to wait until they are outside of my womb to start their training.”

“Best to start early. Advantageous. It appears that they know it is time to get up. I am sorry you did not get those last few minutes of sleep.”

Her fingers danced through her husband’s hair, as straggly as ever. He still wore the braid, which she had to continually redo, but she didn’t mind because it was always a very tender moment for both of them. “So have you come up with names yet, High Chancellor?” In Raythian culture, the males named the children though Zy’nayth did ask for his wife’s input before he started pondering the weighty matter.

“I have.”

“Well, what have you decided? And don’t you dare tell me that I can’t know.”

“You are the mother, you are allowed to know,” he winked. “The boy will be named Ky’nayth. That was my father’s name. It means fire warrior.”

“Hmm, how does that work? Fire Warrior begat Lightning Warrior begat Fire Warrior,” she smiled.

“You remembered.”

“It took me months to get your name out of you and what it meant. Of course I remembered. Now what about our little girl?”

“Hers was much more difficult, but I believe I have settled on a name. Mik’kenna. Mik is miracle. Kenna is blossom. It also sounds very similar to Becket’s surname. I thought you might like that.”

“I love it. He will too.” She said both names aloud, getting used them. “I think they’re beautiful. Our little fire warrior and miracle blossom. And Becket is bridging over next week for some on-site simulations, so this is perfect. Will you come the day he’s here so we can tell him together?”

“I will.”

She giggled, “Ky and Kenna.” She quickly sat up, “Am I going to be able to tell people their names?”

“You intend on telling Dr. McKenna.”

“Well, yes, but I didn’t think about…is it okay?”

“It is not usual, but I think this is something I wish to change. However, before you reveal their names to your friends, please discuss it with me first.”

“How do Rayth do it? Just call them boy and girl?”

“When introducing to others, we simply refer to them as our son or daughter. When others refer to them, it’s your son or your daughter.”

“It’s a weird tradition,” she said as she rested back on her pillow. “Any idea how it got started?”

“No, but perhaps I shall investigate it.” He gave her a tender kiss then kissed her stomach twice, once for each child. “I must get ready for work. Try and get some sleep, I know you have not slept well lately.”

“It’s because your little warriors have started their training sessions early.”

September 6, 2117

“Look at you!” Becket said when Victoria entered the research lab, “Oh love, you are simply glowing.”

Victoria was beaming. She was thrilled to see her friend again and gave him a strong hug. “I’ve missed you so much. It’s so good to see you.” She pulled back and smiled, “And you’re looking rather relaxed and refreshed, Dr. McKenna.”

“Aye. Been good to not be on anyone’s schedule for a while.” He looked over her shoulder and saw the tall Rayth, in his head-to-toe white uniform walking in. “High Chancellor, good to see you.”

“Glad to have you back, albeit for a short while. I would like you to take a few moments to make sure…”

Victoria gave her husband a nudge with her elbow, “The babies are fine, dear. Neville’s been running scans.”

“But I would be much relieved if the good doctor would provide his opinion on the matter.”

“I can run a scan,” Becket laughed, “I figured I’d be called upon to do so anyway.”

“Good. Now, before you get started on the simulation, Victoria and I need to discuss something with you.” He motioned to the door leading to what had been Becket’s office.

Becket gave Victoria a wary eye but her smile remained, “Don’t worry, he doesn’t want any more scans than normal.”

Zy’nayth shut the door while Becket helped Victoria to a seat. She grabbed his hands before he could walk away. “We’ve decided on names,” she said, “Well, Zy did. Rayth tradition and all that. You’re the first to know, so don’t tell anyone.”

“I would appreciate it if he never told anyone without my permission,” Zy’nayth said in his deep, raspy voice, “Rayth tradition and all that.”

Becket nodded, “I’m honored to be the first. So what did you come up with?”

“For the boy, Ky’nayth,” she said and explained how that name came about and the relation to Zy’nayth’s own name. “And for the girl, well, her name means miracle blossom.” She squeezed his hands, “and sounds almost like a certain doctor’s name who happens to be our best friend. Mik’kenna.”

“I…” Becket stammered, “I don’t know what to say. I’m honored.” He leaned down and gave Victoria a hug and a kiss on her cheek, “Sweetheart, thank you.” Then he turned to the imposing Rayth, “Sir, this means a lot to me. First, to be called your friend, then…” Becket leaned against the desk and wiped away his tears, “Sorry, I’m a little overwhelmed. It’s a lot to hit a guy with who’s been gone for nearly four months.”

“There is one more thing,” Zy’nayth said, “if you feel as though you could handle it. However, I have not yet discussed with Victoria, but I believe she will not have any protests.” Both Victoria and Becket looked at the High Chancellor.

“If it’s good news, I can handle it,” Becket smiled.

Zy’nayth gave him a nod and continued, “Should anything happen to me before my children are old enough to take care of themselves,” he said, “I would like you, Dr. McKenna, to be a father figure to them. Keep them safe. Teach them the value of life. Love them as your own.”

“Nothing is going to happen, is it?” Becket asked, “Are you in danger?”

“I am the High Chancellor of the Raythian Empire, I am always in danger. However, I do not anticipate any trouble. I simply wish to have preparations made should something unforeseen arise. Would you accept this role?”

Becket nodded, “I’d be honored to.”

The High Chancellor looked at his wife, “Any objections?”

She wiped the tears from her eyes, “Of course not.”

“Then it is settled,” he reached out to shake Becket’s hand, and to both Victoria and Becket’s surprise, the High Chancellor pulled him into a hug. “Thank you, my friend. I must return to work. It has been good to see you again.”

“Thank you, Zy’nayth, for everything.”

The High Chancellor left while Becket tried to regain his composure. “Well, it’s barely 9:30 in the morning and I’m drained,” he said. “All of this was so unexpected.” He helped Victoria to her feet, “He came up with the names himself?”

“Yup. Now come on, Dr. McKenna, we have a lot of work to get through today.”

“Aye,” he said as they went off to work on some simulations with Ja’val.

Becket stayed through the week, then returned to Earth, much to the disappointment of Victoria and the medical staff.

September 27, 2117

“I have some good news for all of you,” General Vince Cavanaugh said to his senior staff as they met in the mess hall. “Next Monday, we’re getting twenty new medical team members. Central Command has finally realized that we need the help since, other than the Rayth, we’re the only group in the galaxy with advanced medical care, and we’re stretched thin as it is just helping those with major injuries or infections. And, with the exception of the High Chancellor, who we really can’t call upon every time we need a helping hand, the Rayth don’t exactly go around healing humans.

“We’re also getting roughly 500 additional troops and specialists, though primarily troops, to help with the ever-increasing Gyhan attacks. I’ve already had Simon and his team getting quarters wired into the system, but, of course, each individual will be bringing their own furnishings. I expect everyone to be available to help get these new members acquainted with our little city.

“Victoria, I would also like to introduce them to the High Chancellor at his earliest convenience. I’d like them to know that not all Rayth are to be feared. Of course, the First Science Commander will make himself known during the orientation, but having the High Chancellor meet them would be beneficial.”

“I’m sure he’ll be able to come. Is there a preferred day or time?”

“Orientation day will be on Tuesday, and all of the department heads need to be prepared to give their standard presentation. Dr. Danielson has already been asked to make a presentation for the medical department. Regarding the High Chancellor, this is short notice and I know he’s a busy man. Whenever he is able to come, I’ll see to it that arrangements are made.”

Victoria nodded, noting the information on her tablet then winced. “Of course,” she said, “if I go into labor before then, there might be a delay in his arrival.”

“You’re not…”

She smiled, “No, the little warriors are just fighting each other again. I’m not due for another five weeks.”

“Good,” Vince smiled. “So any questions?”

“Will the new Chief Medical Officer be one of the twenty arriving on Monday?” Victoria asked. “I don’t mind filling in, but the High Chancellor is getting anxious about me bridging in every day with the due date just around the corner.”

“We’ve finally found someone,” Vince said. “I’m sure he’ll be able to hit the ground running. Probably over-qualified for the job. He won’t arrive until Friday, though.”

“So Neville Danielson won’t be getting the position?” Simon Harris asked.

“He’s a good doctor, but still rather skittish out in the field. I wanted someone with field experience,” Vince said.

“With all due respect, sir,” Chris Chapman said, “I’m not sure the battles on Earth could fully prepare someone for a Rayth encounter.”

“Of course not, but we haven’t had many of those as of late. Being able to perform your duties while under fire from the Gyhan is something I want my CMO to be able to do. And while Victoria is fully qualified, you know the High Chancellor won’t allow it. If there’s nothing else, you’re dismissed.”

Chris helped Victoria to her feet and escorted her to the infirmary. “You sure you’re going to make it another five weeks?”

“Just one week,” she said, “I’m taking Vince’s word that the new CMO will be able to hit the ground running on Friday. I don’t think I’ll be up to giving him any training.”

“You up to working today?” he asked.

“I’ll check in with Janice and see what’s going on. I’ll probably head home soon, though.”

“I’m surprised the High Chancellor doesn’t have you on his flagship on the way to Earth. I know he doesn’t want anyone but Doc B to deliver the babies.”

“He may not have a choice,” she said as they walked into the infirmary.

“Seems to me that he tends to get his way about most things.”

Victoria chuckled, “I don’t think these kids are going to fit into his plan for when he wants them to be born.”

“Ten bucks says the High Chancellor will get his way and Doc B will deliver them.”

She laughed, “You’re on. I hope you can afford the ten bucks.”

October 7, 2117

The following week, Victoria made sure everything in the medical ward was ready for the arrival of the new staff and the new Chief Medical Officer. She had just finished making sure the office was neat and tidy on Thursday morning and was about to start the morning rounds when her water broke.

“This is not good,” she said, when Lutia Glasson came running in to help her. Victoria grabbed her arm to steady herself, “this isn’t good.” Lutia ordered a wheelchair to be brought around and the team quickly had her in a bed as they awaited for Dr. Danielson.

“He’s not going to be happy,” Victoria said referring to her husband as she clenched her teeth with the contraction. “Too early.”

“The babies look fine and I have the First Science Commander contacting the High Chancellor,” Lutia said.

“Tell Chris he owes me ten bucks.”

“What?”

Victoria laughed then let out a groan of pain. “He said…the High Chancellor would get his way…have Becket deliver the babies. Ahhh!”

“Bridge is at capacity,” Janice said, “bringing in all the new staff and their belongings. It might be a while before the High Chancellor can get in.”

“He’s gonna be mad,” Victoria grunted through the next contraction.

“A bit early for the children to be born,” she heard the familiar raspy voice, “Janice how can I be of assistance?”

“I think just holding her hand for now,” the nurse said to Zy’nayth.

“How’d you get here so fast?” Victoria asked as sweat poured down her face.

“Bridged to Yushin, where I have had a ship stationed for the last month, then light speed travel to this planet, and teleported down. I had this planned months ago.”

She gripped his hand and let out another groan then gasped for air.

“Ah, doctor, right on time,” Zy’nayth said as he gently stroked his wife’s hand.

“So it would appear,” said the familiar Scottish accent.

Victoria turned her head, “Becket?”

“Aye. Could have given me a chance to settle back in first, love. Good thing I decided to come a day early.” He set his bags down next to the bed, “Where are we at?”

Janice filled him in on Victoria’s status, primarily that she was fully dilated and ready to deliver, and he ordered her to be taken to the O.R. “Wait,” Victoria said as they began wheeling her out, “Did Chris know you were coming back?”

“No, love. Only Vince.”

Her hand dug into her husband’s as another shot of pain ran through her. She caught her breath then asked Zy’nayth if he knew Becket was returning.

“I told you he would.”

“Today! Did you know he’d be back today?”

“I did not. But I did tell you he would be here to deliver our babies. Victoria, focus on the children. Your breathing.”

“You owe Chris ten dollars,” she said through clenched teeth.

“I owe him what?”

“High Chancellor, we’ll need you to change into a…” Lutia began but Zy’nayth waved her off.

“That will not be necessary,” he said.

An hour later, Victoria was holding her son while Zy’nayth was holding his daughter. “They are perfectly healthy,” Becket told the proud parents. “A wee bit small, but scans show they’re otherwise perfect. Scan shows you healed your wife perfectly, as you probably know.”

“Victoria did explain the problem most female Rayth have, did she not?” Zy’nayth asked, concerned that his daughter would suffer from either a physical or mental disability that would result in a very sad death at a very young age.

“She did, but the scan shows your little girl to be completely healthy.”

Zy’nayth let out a sigh, “But we will not know for sure until…”

“I promise to keep a very close eye on her. If I see anything out of the ordinary as she grows, you know I’ll do all I can to help her.”

Zy’nayth nodded then held the tiny girl out to the doctor, “I think perhaps you should hold your namesake.”

Becket smiled and took the little girl in his arms while Zy’nayth took his son from his wife, giving her a tender kiss as he did so, “I love you very much, Victoria.”

She was groggy but managed a smile, “You too,” she said then fell right to sleep. She and the babies were moved to a private room where Zy’nayth only allowed Becket, Lutia, and Janice to enter.

October 8, 2117

Victoria’s quarters had been moved months earlier to allow room for a nursery. Zy’nayth insisted that the babies be moved there the following morning so that he could control who was allowed to see them. Becket had no objections and so the family was moved the next morning after Victoria had her breakfast. Zy’nayth’s assistant, the only other Rayth allowed on Terra 2 besides Ja’val, stayed outside their chambers sending would-be well-wishers on their way. Zy’nayth had given him a list of people allowed to visit, the rest were turned away.

Chris, John, Be’atta, and Kaven were the first allowed to see the newborns. And as soon as Chris entered the chambers he looked at Victoria, “You owe me ten bucks.”

“You knew,” she replied, “somehow you knew.”

“I knew he’d get his way. I didn’t know Becket would be back,” he replied with a grin then explained the bet the two of them had made the previous week. “So she owes me ten dollars. But I’d settle for holding one of the little buggers.”

“I do not always get my way, Major Chapman,” Zy’nayth said, “I just plan for every possible contingency. Now, would you like to hold my daughter or my son? No wait, first I need to introduce them, and ask that you do not reveal their names to anyone.”

The group agreed as Zy’nayth picked up his son from the crib. “This is master Ky’nayth.”

Be’atta held out her hands immediately and Zy’nayth placed the baby in her arms. Then he picked up his daughter, “and this is miss Mik’kenna.”

This time Chris held out his hands, “I bet Doc B was thrilled to have one named after him.”

“He was,” Victoria said as Zy’nayth sat beside her on the bed. She held his hand and asked him if she could explain their names, to which he consented.

“They don’t seem to have feeding hands,” John said as he took Ky’nayth from Be’atta.

“Those will develop as they grow older. By adolescence they will start to transition…” he stopped, “I will leave it at that.”

“Even though they’re half human?” Kaven asked, taking his turn with little Mik’kenna.

“So far, all children born half Rayth-half human have taken after Rayth. None have been able to subsist on your food.”

The four of them stayed and talked with the couple who were joined by Becket after he managed to get some of his things settled. Then the Alpha Team said their goodbyes.

“You may want to leave my daughter here, Major,” Zy’nayth said as Chris began walking out with Mik’kenna in his arms.

“Sorry, sir, payment for the bet. She’s mine now.”

“Do not think I have turned so soft that I would not kill to get my daughter back,” the voice thundered.

All four team members stopped dead in their tracks and turned back to the High Chancellor. It had been a long time since they heard his “commander” voice.

“Ah, here, I believe she belongs to you,” Chris said handing the baby girl back to her father. “Sorry, sir, I was just joking.”

“I was aware of that,” Zy’nayth said and winked at him. “But it is good to know you still fear me.”

“It’s the voice,” Chris said, once again smiling, “scared the living daylights out of me.”

“Glad he’s on our side,” John said, “and congratulations.”

Becket stayed behind, joining Victoria for dinner while the High Chancellor continued his fawning over his children. “Will their regenerative abilities be as strong as yours?” he asked.

“No. At least I doubt it.”

Becket set down his fork, “I just remembered something,” he said, “one discussion I had with your First Science Commander about Rayth regenerative abilities and I had mentioned your ability to heal yourself after the bullets you took from Jason. I said something along the lines of not knowing a Rayth could take that much damage and recover even with feeding immediately. He said most couldn’t, no…not quite it.” He paused and replayed the discussion in his head. “He said you were no ordinary Rayth. I didn’t take it to mean there was anything special about your regenerative ability, at least not then, but is that what he meant? Is there something about you that makes you stronger than other Rayth? Able to take more damage and or heal more quickly?”

“I am a fullblood,” Zy’nayth replied.

“I know both of your parents were Rayth, but…”

“You misunderstand the term. You see, nearly all Rayth alive today have a human in their family lineage, other than one of those who were…created…by the Mythicans. Their ability to regenerate diminishes each time human DNA is added to the mix. There has never been a human in my family line.”

Becket leaned forward and ran his fingers through his hair, “Has Ja’val taken this into account with his calculations?”

“I am not sure. What are you thinking?”

“How many fullbloods are there? Best guess.”

“Seven.”

“Seven? Out of millions? Billions?”

“I am the eldest. I have kept track of them.”

“We’ve been using his tissue and blood as baselines for our tests,” Victoria said pointing her husband as she talked to Becket, “they’re skewing everything.”

Becket nodded, “Unless Ja’val accounted for it.”

“But would not the results tend to be more favorable and make you think we are onto a solution when, in fact, we are not?” Zy’nayth asked.

“I’m not sure,” Becket replied, “but we aren’t using yours alone, that’s why we were working with the group on the island.”

“One of whom is also a fullblood,” Zy’nayth said.

“The Vice Chancellor,” Victoria guessed, getting a nod from her husband.

“We have a dozen different samples,” Becket said, “only two are from fullbloods. There’s something else missing, something…I just can’t put my finger on it. Is there anything else that separates a fullblood Rayth from others?”

“I am stronger, though it may be due to the amount of time I spend training.”

“From what little I’ve noticed,” Victoria said, “your brother wasn’t as strong and the Vice Chancellor doesn’t look as strong.”

“As I said, that may just be due to training.”

“She has a point, though,” Becket said, “most Rayth I’ve encountered are tall, like you, but thinner. I know Ja’val has a daily workout regimen, yet I would say he and someone like Kaven would be equally matched, provided Ja’val didn’t use his feeding hands. But against you, neither of them would stand a chance.”

“I’ve seen him fight off ten of his own warriors without breaking a sweat,” Victoria said of her husband, “and leave them gasping on the floor.”

“Unfortunately,” Becket said, “I’ve seen Rayth attacks where humans ended up in much the same predicament.”

“Humans, yes,” Victoria said, “I’m talking about Rayth warriors. Big, tall, strong Rayth warriors being tossed around like wet noodles.”

“It could still just be his training.”

“Becket, I’m talking about warriors on the Raythian flagship. Do you think he’d have any warrior on board who was anything less than the perfectly built fighter? And ten at once? Without breaking a sweat.”

“Are you sure there were ten?”

“Becket…”

Zy’nayth put his daughter into her crib and picked up his son. “There are often more than ten,” he said as he sat back down in his chair. “Victoria, I am not changing diapers.”

She burst into laughter. “Does he need it?”

“I do not believe so, I simply do not want you to forget.”

“I’m sure you’ll remind me.”

“Indeed.”

“Sir, you are not exaggerating to impress your wife, are you?” Becket asked.

“I do not exaggerate my abilities. Doing so could be dangerous.”

Becket waved off the thought, “Okay, we know your regeneration abilities work faster and that you’re stronger, naturally stronger, than other Rayth. But we can’t attribute your strength to your fullbloodedness since it doesn’t seem to be a factor with the Vice Chancellor. What about sight, sound, smell? I know Rayth senses are heightened more than human, but are yours higher than most Rayth?

“I am unsure, though I can have Ja’val find out.”

“So how does all of this impact our research?” Becket said, more to himself than anyone.

Victoria spoke up, “If human DNA dilutes their regenerative ability, shouldn’t it also be restoring their ability to live on fruits and vegetables as they become, for lack of a better term, more human?”

Becket’s blue eyes lit up. He stood, leaned over the table, gave Victoria a kiss. “I’ve got an idea, gotta go!” he said and went running out of her chambers.

“I am not sure I approve of that kiss,” Zy’nayth said.

“What did I say?” she said as she stood, about to dress and began to follow after Becket.

“You are not leaving. I am sure he, or Ja’val, will keep you up to date. You have two newborns to take care of. Now finish your dinner, the children will need to be fed soon.”

Victoria turned and saw her son sleeping in Zy’nayth’s arms. She walked over and gave them both kisses. “Sorry, I got overly excited.”

“Overly excited by your work and not the fact that your children were born less than twenty-four hours ago?”

“Zy…you know that’s not true.”

“Our children are your first priority, Victoria. The research is important, yes, but I need you to be a mother now.”

“I am well aware of my priorities, High Chancellor.”

Zy’nayth stood, put his son in his crib then walked over and gazed down at his wife, “You know what these children mean to me, Victoria. We have discussed this. Please do not be upset with me for reminding you of what we agreed upon.”

Victoria sighed, “I’m sorry. But I…if I triggered something that will help us find a solution faster, well…we’ve worked so hard for this.”

Zy’nayth embraced his wife, “I know. And I apologize for being sharp. Forgive me.”

She returned his hug, “Forgiven. I think I’m just too tired.”

“You have had a rather trying day,” he said. “Finish your dinner and tend to the children’s feeding then get some sleep.”

“Are you staying here tonight?” she asked as she sat back down to finish her meal.

“Yes. I will remain until we can move our children back to the estate.”

“Zy…I never thought about our children having to feed on humans. How do you even teach them something like that?” She let out a long sigh and dropped her voice. “How will I live knowing that my babies are out killing humans?”

“We will have a solution by the time they reach that age.” He said then walked into the bedroom and shut the door.

Victoria finished her food then fed her babies. When she walked into the bedroom, Zy’nayth was standing and staring out of the window. She saw the tears running down his cheeks.

“What’s wrong?” she asked.

“I do not kill humans by choice. I do not have a choice, Victoria. I thought you understood that.”

“What? I do understand,” she said walking up and wrapping her arms around him, “You know I do.”

“You just asked me how you were going to live knowing that our children would be killing humans. You know what I am. You knew our children would eventually have to start feeding on humans.”

“Oh Zy, I didn’t…honestly, I didn’t think about our kids having to feed. Maybe, in the back of my mind. Maybe I didn’t want to think about it. Zy, I love you, and I love our children. That will never change.”

Zy’nayth sighed but gave her a kiss. “Get some sleep. I will let my assitant know that we do not want any more visitors tonight.”

“Thank you,” she said, knowing he was still upset with her. She crawled into the bed and despite her worry over her husband’s mood, she fell right to sleep. A couple of hours later, she heard the crying and bolted out of the bed and across the chambers to the nursery. Zy’nayth was already there, walking back and forth with Mik’kenna in his arms.

“I believe they are hungry and need their diapers changed.”

She picked up Ky’nayth and settled in the oversized chair to feed him. He quieted immediately. She changed him, put him back into his crib then took care of his sister. Both babies fell right back to sleep after having their needs tended to.

“It’s late,” she said, noticing that her husband was still in uniform. “Come to bed.”

Zy’nayth walked into the main room and sat in his chair. “I do not wish to disturb your rest.”

Victoria reached out and grabbed his hand, “Come to bed. I hate sleeping without you.” Zy’nayth remained sitting so Victoria tugged on his arm again, “Come on. Stop pouting.”

“I am not pouting.”

“You’re pouting. And I am sorry, Zy, I really didn’t mean…I know you have to feed. I know you hate it. I don’t think of you as a killer. If I did, I wouldn’t be your wife. I wouldn’t even love you.”

“You specifically used the term ‘killing humans.’ It hurt, Victoria.”

“Oh honey, I’m so sorry. It was a bad choice of words, it’s not what’s in my heart. I…”

“I think you try to block out that part of me.”

“Zy’nayth, I love you. Yes, I try not to think about what has to be done in order for you to survive, but I know your heart. You’ve risked everything to help us in this research. I know you’ve searched for an alternate food source before we even came into the picture. I adore you. I love you. I can’t live without you. Now come to bed.”

He let out a long sigh.

“Zy, I’m tired but I don’t want to go to bed with you upset with me. I’m groveling, honey. I’m sorry. I’m so very sorry.”

Finally he stood and walked to the bedroom. Victoria turned out the lights and ran after him. She helped him out of his uniform and settled into the bed with him.

“Not even a kiss?” she asked.

“I am not in the mood.”

“Just a kiss. Please, I don’t want to fight any more.”

Zy’nayth let out one of his growling groans. He quickly turned and pushed her onto her back, about to reprimand her, for what, he didn’t know, but even in the darkened room, her emerald eyes sparkled. He huffed. Then he leaned down and kissed her. “Those eyes,” he said, “will be the death of me.”

 

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