Page 87

Issa arched a brow, crossing her arms. ‘You all talk a lot of shit for men who look like you’re modeling for a weapons catalog.’

A laugh rippled through the group.

Ki’Remi shook his head, his lips twitching. ‘Enough.’

Before any of them could retort, a delighted cry rang through the air.

‘Ki’Remi!’

A woman surged forward, her stride quick, her smile beaming. She was striking with honey-dark skin, keen eyes, and confidence woven into every movement.

Ki’Remi rose to his feet as her arms wrapped around him in a hug that spoke of old familiarity.

Issa’s stomach tightened.

They were well acquainted with each other. Perhaps too well.

She was also au fait with the Riders as she spun to give them all hugs.

‘Hey, sis-in-law,’ Kainan grinned.

‘Hey, you. How’s my sibling? Still giving her the caveman treatment?’

The colossus’ eyes flamed, and he chuckled as they exchanged a few more words before the woman rotated to Ki’Remi.

‘You’re back?’ she called, mock-scowling. ‘You didn’t even check in yet?’

Ki’Remi exhaled, his tone softer than usual. ‘Had matters to handle first.’

She rolled her eyes, turning to Issa, her expression friendly nevertheless laced with curiosity.

‘And this is -?’

‘Issa Elaris.’ Ki’Remi introduced, his voice neutral. ‘She’s a fellow surgeon on Perseus Prime.’

The woman’s brows lifted, warmth flickering behind her gaze.

‘Issa, Meet Sheba Munene,’ Ki’Remi continued. ‘Senior Nurse Extraordinaire. We worked together in relief vessels in the far reaches of Pegasi. We also set up a permanent hospital here in Eden II, a high-end facility to prevent interplanetary patients from overburdening Dunia’s resources. She now runs it.’

Sheba shot him a smirk. ‘While Ki’Remi gallivants on mercy ships and wanders like Odysseus, nursing his walkabout itch.’

Zane chuckled. ‘That’s one way to put it.’

Riv arched a silver brow. ‘Man’s been dodging any talk of enduring roots since we met him.’

Ki’Remi sent them all a slow glare, but there was no real heat in it.

Watching the way they bantered and how seamlessly they fit together, Issa felt emotion stir inside her.

A longing, a pang of missing her loved ones that bordered on grief.

A reminder of the family she left behind.

She forced a smile and took a sip of her cocktail, masking the yearning ache deep in her chest.

16

Goddesses and Queens