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‘Nothing we can do now but wait,’ Zane murmured. ‘Let’s refresh, rest, and take our minds off the coming battle. Obsessing will only wear us down when we need to have our guns ready and blazing. I’m ordering a night of R&R for us all.’

Riv turned to Kisan. ‘Gives us a chance to reacquaint ourselves with old friends.’

The dark-skinned man, who’d been quiet for the most part, taking in the events, nodded. ‘I’ll appreciate that.’

Mirage interjected. ‘I’ve taken the initiative to set up all your quarters for our new guests. I’ll also have a meal ready for you in the captain’s cabin in an hour.’

‘Much appreciated,’ Riv murmured.

The party disembarked.

Zane took charge of Kisan, leading him to the medbay, where he’d be under observation to ensure optimal recovery.

Xion and Ki’Remi branched towards the bridge to check Phantasm’s readiness for the inevitable clash ahead.

Riv led his small family to where they’d bed down during their onboard stay.

He stopped at a sliding door. ‘Killen, this is where you’ll sleep.’

The entry slid open, revealing a lavish room with comfortable furniture and state-of-the-art fittings. A generous sunken bath dominated one corner, while a spacious living area sat across it.

‘It’s more than I need.’ Killen’s quiet, deep voice vibrated through the air. ‘Sante,Father.’

‘It’s what you deserve,’ Rid growled, hugging the strapping man. ‘Dinner’s not for another two hours. Please rest, and let’s meet up soon in Zane’s cabin. Directions are easy enough, but if you get lost, use the touchpad and punch in your destination. The floor panels in the corridor will light up to lead you.’

The silver-haired young man nodded. ‘Noted. Love you both.’

‘Love you more.’ Riv’s eyes followed their son with pride as he disappeared behind the sliding door.

He turned and gave Élisa a small smile. ‘You OK, angel?’

She returned it. ‘More than.’

‘Want to explore my quarters?’

She stepped forward and slid her hands around his waist. ‘Naam. I need to freshen up. It’s been a long day.’

Riv walked her into his suite, which had similar clean lines and luxurious fittings.

He led her to the bathroom, where a sunken pool waited.

She gaped at its luxury as he touched a button on the taps to fill the oversized bath.

She undressed as he poured salts and scented bubble foam into the swirling water.

His eyes smoldered when he turned to the sight of his naked, lithe woman waiting on the edge.

‘Get in, Élisa,’ he rasped, his voice low and rough with need.

She did as commanded, sinking into the warm water and letting out a sigh of bliss.

He soon stripped and joined her, sitting behind her, where he used a soft cloth to wash away her angst and worry.

She arched against his hard length, swirling her hips, making him hiss.

‘Nada,’ Riv warned. ‘Not until after dinner, my silvermalaíka, when I can make love to you all night without interruption.’

She shivered in anticipation. ‘I can’t wait.’