The Morcai Battalion: Invictus. Diana Palmer

I have. Your eyes were that color when you rescued me, on Akaashe,” she added, puzzled.

      “A result of the mating behavior,” he lied. It had been more than that, but he didn’t want to think about it just yet. He traced her cheek, his gaze still intent on her face. “So many differences,” he mused. “But in many more ways, we are alike. We must concentrate on the similarities during our time in Benaski Port, so that we do not arouse suspicion.”

      “I don’t suppose you’ll arm me for the mission?” she murmured mischievously.

      He lifted an eyebrow. “Only under threat of immediate attack by squadrons of Rojoks.”

      She sighed. “I might have known.”

      “You will not require a weapon. I will protect you and the child,” he said.

      Odd, the feeling those words provoked, in a very capable and independent spirit. They made her feel warm inside, in a way she never had before.

      It made him feel the same. It was disturbing. He turned away. “I have duties to attend to. If you need anything, you have only to call. A servant will answer.”

      “Servants, luxurious clothing, every whim attended to,” she said. “It’s difficult to adjust.”

      He smiled. “Despite how it may seem, my own life has been quite regimented and sparse in the way of luxuries. It is a change for me, too, this new lifestyle.”

      Her gaze slid over his handsome face. “It’s only temporary.”

      He nodded. His eyes went to her belly, where his child was growing. His face hardened and he turned away. It wouldn’t do to get too involved with her pregnancy.

      She watched him go with sad eyes. She touched her stomach with wonder. She hadn’t really believed it was possible. She was amazed at how much she wanted the child. That possibility hadn’t even occurred to her. She turned back to the balcony. It would be unwise to dwell on impossible things. She looked up as a small, personal transport flew over and sighed. It was going to be a long few days.