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Waking up next to her after their night together was amazing. The overriding contentment and affection were feelings he didn’t think he’d experience, and he didn’t want them to end, but Nadzia was right.

“No one will see me. I’ll use the hidden passage.” He gestured to the wall beside the bed.

“That’s how you got in here. Wow. I’m not sure if that’s creepy or cool.”

“They were built so we males could bond with the members of our conclave without them getting jealous.”

“Seriously? I’d be jealous as hell just knowing there were other women. But you all grew up with this custom. Aren’t the women used to it?” she asked.

“We form different relationships with different people like anyone else. A male’s bond with his weakness is very powerful, but often before he finds her, he’s formed an emotional bond with another member of his conclave. For example, my patrem; Axilla is his weakness, but Tellar has a very strong bond with Bregma.”

“You do, too.” Nadzia smiled as she studied his face.

“I used to wish she was my matron. Don’t get me wrong, I deeply care for Axilla, but like I said, different people have different qualities. I imagine it would be the same for me if I made an attempt to get to know my conclave.”

“Are you saying you don’t use those hidden corridors?”

“No. I don’t.”

“Ah, yes, because you don’t like your women being picked for you. I totally get that. But the idea of having a harem is probably right up your alley.” Nadzia side-eyed him.

“You’re testing me,” he chuckled. “I won’t lie, it is what I’m used to and it does have its appeal. Except the whole breeder thing chafes, and when I was young, I had five matrons bossing me around. That was a lot of fun,” he commented sarcastically.

“Oh yeah, that is the rub. Instead of disappointing one woman, you’ll be disappointing a handful,” she countered.

He rolled, pinning Nadzia beneath him as she giggled.

“Is that so? Were you so very disappointed?” He ground his hips into her.

“No.” She sobered then leaned up and kissed him.

He groaned. She tasted wonderful. And the way her little body wiggled against his, he couldn’t seem to get enough, but Nadzia pulled away.

“This is counterproductive. We’ll be missed.” Nadzia pressed against his chest, shoving him away.

“As I recall, you started this, questioning my virility,” he countered, pushing at her hands as he lowered himself on top of her.

“Me?! Never.” She reached up to pinch his nose but he managed to raise his shell before she could. “Hey!”

“I’m getting better at controlling it around you.” He wagged his brows, pleased with himself.

“That is probably good if we’re going to maintain our cover. I can’t have you going allsoftevery time I get close to you.” She grinned.

“Ow, that hurt!” He rolled off her and clutched his chest.

“Did I get that right?” She giggled as she propped herself up on one arm.

“Yes, and that’s my cue to get out of here. I don’t need to take this abuse when my adoring public is waiting for me,” he countered, feigning hurt, as he climbed out of bed and pulled on his suit.

“I think there’s another big baby nosing around on the patio,” Nadzia teased as she pointed toward the veranda.

Sure enough, Tarsus was outside stalking a gliding anole. Just as the kitten was about to pounce, the lizard scurried through the railing and leapt over the edge, flying to the garden below.

“Sorry, Tarsus, I guess it’s not your day either.” He scooped up the furry beast.

“I heard that!” Nadzia announced as she picked out some clothes.

“I know. It was intended to make you feel guilty. Right, Tarsus?” He wiggled the kitten in front of her.