The Alien’s Unwanted Bride (Alien Brides #4)

Chapter 17

SEVENTEEN

Z ora felt a wave of tenderness wash over her. She reached up, covering his hand with hers where it rested against her cheek. To her amazement, the flowers around them blazed brighter, their glow intensifying in response to their touch.

“I like spending time with you too, Dravek,” she said, her voice soft but sure. “And I understand the confusion. This is all new for me as well. I’ve never felt this way about anyone.”

Dravek’s thumb caressed her cheekbone. “What do we do?” he asked, vulnerability clear in his voice. “With everything that’s happening and the battle ahead...”

Zora stepped closer, eliminating the last bit of distance between them. She placed her free hand on Dravek’s chest, feeling his heart racing beneath her palm. “We take it one day at a time,” she said. “We fight for what we believe in, for the future we want to see. And... we explore these feelings together. If that’s what you want.”

Dravek’s other arm slipped around her waist, drawing her even closer. “It is,” he whispered. “More than anything.”

For a moment, they stood in silence, surrounded by the pulsing light of the flowers. The air between them was charged with unspoken emotions, possibilities, and promises yet to be made. Zora could feel the solid warmth of Dravek’s body against hers and the strength in his arms as he held her.

“You know,” Zora said, a mischievous glint in her eye as she tried to lighten the mood, “on Earth, there’s a saying about soldiers before battle. Something about last nights at home...”

Dravek’s eyebrow quirked up, a smile tugging on his lips. “Oh? And what do Earth soldiers do on these last nights?”

Zora’s fingers played with the collar of his shirt, her touch featherlight and teasing. “Oh, you know. Make grand declarations, kiss passionately under the stars. That sort of thing.”

“Is that so?” Dravek’s voice had dropped an octave, sending a thrill through her. “And is that what you’re suggesting, Zora Arison?”

She tilted her head, pretending to consider. “Well, we’re not on Earth. And it’s not our last night. But...” She glanced up at him through her lashes. “I wouldn’t be opposed to the kissing part.”

Dravek’s laugh was low and rich, a sound that made Zora’s heart soar. “Who am I to argue with Earth customs?” he murmured, leaning down.

Their lips met in a kiss that started soft and sweet but quickly blazed into something more. Zora’s arms wound around Dravek’s neck as he pulled her flush against him, one hand tangling in her hair. They poured all their unspoken feelings, fears, and hopes for the future into that kiss.

When they finally parted, the flowers around them glowed so brightly, it was almost like daylight in the grove.

“Wow,” Zora breathed, her lips tingling.

Dravek’s arms tightened around her, his eyes blazing with intensity. “Zora,” he said, his voice low and fervent, “I want you to know that whatever happens in the future, we’re going to face it together. We’re going to win this fight.”

Zora nodded, feeling a surge of confidence. “You’re right. We’ve come too far to fail now. And together...” She smiled up at him, her heart full. “Together, we’re unstoppable.”

Dravek’s answering smile was fierce and proud. “Exactly. Malgor and his forces don’t stand a chance against us.”

Their lips met again, this time in a kiss that was equal parts passion and promise. When they broke apart, Zora could see her own desire reflected in Dravek’s eyes.

“Dravek,” she murmured, her fingers tracing the strong line of his jaw, “I don’t want to be alone tonight. Stay with me?”

His breath caught, and for a moment, Zora worried she’d been too forward. But then Dravek’s hand cupped the back of her neck, drawing her in for another searing kiss.

“There’s nowhere else I’d rather be,” he whispered against her lips.

Hand in hand, they made their way back to the rebel base. The halls were quiet, most of their comrades already asleep. They moved silently, exchanging heated glances and barely suppressed smiles.

When they reached Zora’s quarters, she pulled Dravek inside without hesitation. As soon as the door closed behind them, Dravek gathered her into his arms, kissing her with an intensity that left her breathless.

“Are you sure about this?” he asked, his forehead resting against hers.

Zora’s answer was to reach up and begin unfastening his shirt. “The longer I am with you, the surer I am that we’re right together,” she said, her voice husky with desire.