Chapter 7

Before Ryel could speak, I turned to ZalAna. “Clean this up, if you would.” She nodded, and I focused on the Ssarften still crouched in front of me. I placed a hand on Sol’s shoulder. “You. Come with me.”

Without waiting for a response, I headed toward the door. It took only a moment before I felt Sol behind me. He radiated heat, and he was so close that if I stopped, he’d run into me.

I didn’t say a word, just left the bay and headed down the corridor. My intent had been to return to my office, find out what the fuck had happened, and reprimand Sol if warranted. But the way he crowded my space, and growled softly at anyone we passed, made me change my mind. With dawning realization, I suddenly understood what was happening. I veered to the lift, and gave it the voice command for Deck Ten, where the officer’s quarters were located.