Chapter 13: Braids.

SITTING NAKED ON the sand with the waterfall rumbling nearby, Render leaned against a large rock. Sitting behind him, Daris braided his hair. The light was warm, and he tipped his head back as his skin air-dried from the water.

It was strange to have the next king of the Dagerstanteens weaving his hair like a servant, but at the same time, Render wouldn’t want this any other way. In a relatively short amount of time, he’d grown accustomed to the alien’s touch.

Today had been one of the best in his life. He was sad that they would have to get back to the ship. He wished he could stay like this forever. Daris was one of his favorite things. The next king was glorious.

In the pool, Toren still played and splashed.

“I suppose we should head back soon,” Daris murmured.

“Yes, my liege.” Render sighed happily.

“That looks quite regal, Ren,” Toren said as he splashed out of the pool, shaking water off his frame. “You look like the palace guards, only better.”