Illicit Mate (Abducted 4)

“That’s terrible.” Jenna’s heart ached for Darrick. “So you don’t think he’ll even consider it?”

Casey shook her head. “I don’t know. I’ve known Darrick a long time. We grew up together and I saw firsthand how he was treated.” She locked gazes with Jenna. “But I haven’t given up hope. Things are changing more quickly now since our people have started finding their tanash’aei on other worlds. People understand we have to be open to other beliefs and with an other-worlder as part of a threesome relationship, most people will find it harder to question that.” Jenna reached out and took Casey’s hand in hers.

“So you’re saying it’s going to be a difficult path,” Jenna said, “but maybe a little easier for us because I’m from another planet.”

“Yes, but I’m not sure Darrick will accept that.”

Jenna reached out and took Casey’s hand in hers. “Then we’ll just have to convince him.”

Casey checked her comm device as she waited for the elevator. Darrick had been avoiding her for days. She frowned as she saw that he still hadn’t answered any of her messages. She couldn’t let this go on.

The doors swooshed open and she stepped inside.

“Hello, Casey.”

“Commander. How is everything?”

She’d heard that Larson had been having some difficulties with his tanash’ae relationship. At least, that was what most people assumed because he’d been frustrated and on edge, which was not the sign of a man enjoying time with the love of his life.

“Eva and I had a rocky start,” Larson said, “but I’m happy to say that we’ve worked out our problems.”

She glanced at him and saw that his eyes gleamed with the deep contentment of a man in love.

“How are things with you and Jenna?”

“Just like with you, things were rocky at the beginning. But things are good between Jenna and me now.”

“And what about Darrick? I assume he’s not accepting the relationship.”

Casey hesitated. The commander knew her and Darrick’s history.

“He knew when we left Sa’oul that our relationship was over.”

“Casey, you don’t have to hide anything from me. I know that you and Darrick are true tanash’aei. Anyone who knows you can see that. So clearly the fact that you’re called to another mate means that all three of you are meant to be together.”

Casey pursed her lips. “Darrick doesn’t see it that way.”

“Because of his background. I know. But you’d better do something about it before he gets himself into trouble I can’t help him get out of.”

Her heart pounded. “What do you mean?”

“On duty, he’s been distracted and withdrawn. He’s arrived late a few times and he’s prickly and running on a short fuse. Off duty, he’s been spending a lot of his free time in the Red Room. Last night he drank more than he should and got into a brawl.” His concerned gaze locked on her. “He needs to get his act together.”

“I’ll talk to him, Commander.”

“Good.”

The doors opened and the commander strode from the elevator. The doors closed behind him and Casey directed the elevator to change destinations. When it arrived, she strode to the Red Room and saw Darrick sitting at a table with Selea and Linet. Jealousy surged through her, knowing that the two women had a thing for him.

She sucked in a deep breath, then strolled to the table.

“Darrick, could I have a word?” She stared at the two women pointedly.

Casey knew they were intimidated by her.

“We’ll leave you two alone,” Salea said and the two of them stood up.

“No,” Darrick said firmly. “Stay right here.”