For two years, Ares Gallo has been ransacking the galaxy for the woman who meant everything to him. They trained together, killed together, loved together, but now, Anicka Dekker doesn't even know who he is. All she knows every time she meets the enigmatic, scarred stranger is that a part of her trusts him. An even larger part desires him. In any and every way she can have him. Ares wants his wife back. Despite the scars that have changed his appearance and the chronic pain that destroyed his career, he follows Anicka from planet to planet, finding her in seedy bars, stately palaces, and everywhere in between. Every time they have a few moments of pure bliss, his hope blooms that this time…things will be different. Then, STRIKE, the organization that wanted them dead, tears them apart, erasing Anicka's memories, and Ares has to start all over again. But even if she can't remember him, he's certain she'll recognize their bond. Sooner or later.

Across the Universe

Dr. Iara wasn’t human but Kinnalian, a humanoid species renowned for their intellect. They were also a highly private race, so seeing Ares smile at her like they were old friends was a little disconcerting. Their brief chat ended when Ares turned back and held his arm out for Anicka, pulling her into his side as soon as she was close enough.


“I am glad Sir Gallo was successful,” Dr. Iara said with a bow of her head. Her faintly translucent skin was tinged amber, and though her loose, sleeveless tunic covered her from neck to midthigh, Anicka could see the filigree of blood vessels in her arms and legs. It gave the sensation of the Kinnalian always being in motion, even when she was standing still. “Are you prepared?”


Anicka answered with a corresponding bow. “Thank you for doing this for us.”


Her pale, slitted eyes flickered, her lipless mouth spreading into a smile. “It is my pleasure.” Her gaze jumped to Ares. “Will Sir accompany us?”


Chapter 40