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Story: Lost Companion

“Yes. Well done on not asking her name directly. It would have been taken as flirting.”

“She didn’t offer it either.”

“She wanted you to ask.”

“Yikes. She’s the right size, but I don’t know what to do with all those breasts.”

Ranna chortled. “I am guessing she would love to help you with that.”

“Please, no. I am not up for any of that sort of thing.”

“Aw, Riley, I won’t. I could actually feel the fear and depression that washed through you there.”

“Trusting someone with myself is difficult.”

“And yet, you didn’t argue with my bond.”

“I know what the Hmrain want, and I also know that you are trustworthy when it comes to clauses in the contracts.” She looked up at Ranna. “You want to heal yourself without locking your body in a healing unit.”

“Yes. I am already stronger with one day with you than I have been since the event.”

Riley nodded. “Good. Let’s get you back in the sky. Longing seems to be why you haven’t been looking at it, so let’s make it a goal.”

“What?”

“Back in the sky by year three. Two years to heal completely, one year to get them strong enough to lift, and then up you go.” Riley smiled.

“Are you acting like a nanny?”

Riley chuckled. “I won’t tell that you have been bossed around by someone half your size if you will. As far as they are concerned, I am your devoted companion.”

“Are you? Devoted, I mean?”

“Very much so. I can see so much beauty for you in your life, you just have to take the strength that got you through it, and you need to wear it on you every time you wake.”

Riley squawked as she was caught up in a hug. Her feet kicked as Ranna snuggled her and spun her around. “You are exactly what I need.”

When she was back on her feet, she squeezed her lady’s hands. “Good. I am depending on you to guide me through your world.”

“I am making a list of places to go shopping tomorrow. What are you most looking forward to?”

“Underwear.”

Ranna laughed again, and they continued their long walk around the green spaces.

Riley’s senses told her people were watching them, but Ranna didn’t seem worried, so she just kept walking with her employer.

They walked for two hours and discussed things that neither would talk about in mixed company, including hopes and dreams for the future.

Ranna smiled. “Do you want a family?”

“Only if I could make sure it would be mine. Other things I have thought were mine have been swept from me and used to hurt me. Relationships are tricky, and trusting someone is even worse.”

“When we get close to the five-year mark, can I matchmake for you?”

“If you are flying by then and feeling whole again? Yes.”

“Deal.” She stuck out her hand, and they shook on it. “I will put the amendment in your contract.”