Page 21 of Bound to the Alien Orc (Alien Gambits #1)

Chapter 21

My heart races as I leap from the landcrawler, my boots hitting the frozen ground with a crunch. The sight before me sends a swell of rage through my veins.

Tasha lies motionless, pinned against the chest of a hulking goon in a red uniform. The brute’s hand is wrapped around her throat, squeezing the life from her.

“STOP!” I roar, my voice raw with fury.

The brute looks up, his milky eye gleaming in the darkness. “Stay back! The human’s mine!”

My hand reaches for my weapon, a luminore blade that hums with energy. “Release her, now!”

The brute laughs, a cruel, grating sound. “You want her? Come and get her.”

I charge, my fist slicing through the air. The brute dodges, his movements surprisingly agile for his size.

We circle each other, eyes locked, muscles tensed. I recognize the red uniform, the distinctive markings. Nexus Fist Syndicate, a criminal gang known for their brutality.

The thought of this filth touching Tasha, hurting her, fills me with a blinding wrath. He’s sealed his fate. He touched what is mine.

The brute lunges, his fist swinging in a vicious arc. I duck, the blow whistling past my ear. I counter with a swift punch from my clenched fist, but the brute is fast, darting out of reach.

We trade blows, the clash of fists on flesh filling the night air. The brute is strong, his strikes heavy and powerful. But I’m fueled by rage, by the need to protect Tasha.

I fight like a warrior possessed, my blows landing with deadly precision. The brute grows slower, weaker, his movements becoming sluggish. I press forward, my attacks a blur of motion. The brute stumbles back, his defenses crumbling under my onslaught.

I see my opening. With a roar, I lunge, my blade piercing the brute’s chest. His eyes widen in shock, a gurgling gasp escaping his lips.

“This is for touching her, you Nexus scum,” I snarl, twisting the blade.

I yank it free, and the brute crumples to the ground, his body twitching and jerking as his lifeblood stains the snow crimson.

I turn, my heart in my throat. Tasha lies still, her face pale and bruised.

“Tasha!” I drop to my knees beside her, my hands shaking as I feel for a pulse.

It’s there, weak and raspy, but unmistakable. She’s alive.

Gently, I gather her into my arms, cradling her against my chest. She’s so cold, her skin like ice. I make a vow, no matter what it takes, I’ll protect her.

She stirs in my arms; a soft moan escapes her lips. I hold her tighter, my heart aching for her.

“You’re safe now, Tasha,” I whisper, pressing my lips to her forehead. “I won’t let anyone hurt you again. I swear it.”

Her eyes flutter open, but immediately close again. She’s barely conscious. I have to get her to the healer. I turn back to the landcrawler, thankful Jextok stayed put. He’s standing beside it, his eyes wide with concern.

“Get the landcrawler moving. NOW.”

He doesn’t hesitate, rushing back to the controls and starting the engine. I lift Tasha into the landcrawler, cradling her in my arms. She’s so small and fragile, and the sight of her battered face makes my heart ache.

“Hold on, Tasha. I’m going to take care of you.”

The landcrawler speeds through the icy streets, and I hold Tasha close, trying to protect her from the icy wind. All I feel is her chest rising and falling, the warmth of her breath against my neck. And a burning resolution to keep her safe.

We arrive at the healer’s shack, and I carry Tasha inside, my heart hammering in my chest. Nan looks up from her worktable, her bushy white eyebrows rising in surprise. Though wrinkled with age, her green skin is still smooth and her back straight. She moves with a swiftness that belies her years.

“What happened here?” Nan asks, immediately leading us into a private room to lay Tasha down. Her voice is gravelly, but warm. She presses her lips together as she examines Tasha’s wounds, then shuffles over to gather herbs and bandages with practiced hands.

I shake my head, the words catching in my throat. I lay Tasha gently on the table, stroking her hair.

Nan works, her skilled fingers quickly staunching the bleeding. She tsks under her breath in sympathy, then sings a soft morcrestian lullaby as she applies a healing poultice. I feel myself relaxing just hearing the familiar tune. Nan healed most of my childhood scrapes and soothed my adolescent heartaches since I was a rambunctious kinling. If anyone can help Tasha, it is Nan.

“She’s lucky, no major damage. I’ll get her fixed up in no time.”

“I’ll be right back.”

Reluctantly, I leave the room to speak to Jextok. At least I know Tasha is in the best possible hands. But I can’t help but feel helpless, not being able to do more for her.

Jextok is waiting outside, his expression anxious.

“Is she okay?” he asks, his voice low.

“She will be,” I reply roughly. “Nan says she’ll be fine.”

He nods, relief etched on his face. “I’m glad.”

I reach for some credits in my pocket. “Here, stay the night. There’s an inn at the end of the street. Head back to the South Tower tomorrow. Tell Varig thanks for the ride.”

“Thanks, Droilin. Are you going back in?”

“I’m not leaving her again.”

Wasting no more precious time, I head back to Tasha’s side. I see faint, dark bruises have appeared around her neck, and the sight of it fills me with rage. It should never have happened. She shouldn’t be here like this.

Nan glances at me, a sympathetic smile tugging at her lips.

“She’s a fighter, that one. She just needs rest. But you can stay with her here until she wakes.”

“Thanks, Nan,” I murmur, sinking into the chair next to Tasha.

She shifts in her sleep, a soft whimper escaping her lips. I take her hand in mine, lacing our fingers together.

“I’m here, Tasha,” I whisper, stroking her hair. Terrible thoughts come to mind about what would have happened if I didn’t get here in time. I can’t help but think how vulnerable she looks, and I’m glad I killed the Nexus Fist goon.

As I watch over her as she sleeps, my mind races. How did this happen? Where were her guards? The Nexus Fist is a notorious gang of enforcers and muscle for hire. They offer their services as bodyguards, debt collectors... slavers. Garrox has been so distracted with his STI dealings, the situation around Frosthok is slipping.

I put my head in my hands, trying to piece together the events of the day.

“Droilin?” Tasha murmurs, her voice hoarse.

My head snaps up, my gaze locking on her face. Her eyes are open, and she’s staring at me with a look of confusion.

I lean in closer, squeezing her hand.

She blinks, her brow furrowing. “Where are we?”

“We’re at the healers. Do you remember what happened?”

Her eyes close, and she takes a deep, shuddering breath.

Tasha’s quiet for a moment, her face pale. When she speaks, her voice is barely above a whisper. “I... I was at the mine. Working on the machines. And then—” She shudders, her hand tightening around mine.

I lean in closer, my heart aching for her. “It’s okay. You’re safe now.”

She nods, taking a deep breath. “One guard, Claws... He cornered me. Tried to... to force himself on me.” Her voice breaks, tears welling in her eyes.

Rage boils inside me, hot and fierce. I want to find this Claws, to make him pay for what he did. But I push the anger down, focusing on Tasha.

“Throk stopped him,” she continues, her voice a little steadier. “But then, after my shift... The one’s in the red uniform. They attacked the guard who was escorting me back. Said they were going to sell me.”

I nod, piecing it together. “Nexus Fist Syndicate. They’re slavers, among other things.”

Tasha’s eyes widen. “You know them?”

“By reputation.” I stroke her hair, trying to soothe her. “He won’t touch you again. I made sure of that.”

She looks at me, realization dawning. “You... you killed him?”

I nod, my jaw tight. “I had to. They hurt you.”

Tears spill down her cheeks, and she squeezes her eyes shut. “I was so scared, Droilin. And I thought... I thought they were going to—”

I gather her into my arms, holding her close. “Shh. It’s over now. You’re safe.”

She clings to me, her face buried in my chest. I hold her as she cries. My heart breaks for her.

“How did you find me?” Tasha finally asks.

“First, I went to the mine, and they told me you had been transferred. I searched everywhere for you, and then I heard a commotion, and I saw you in the alley. I don’t know what happened, but I’m so glad I got there in time.”

Tasha nods, her expression thoughtful. “Me too.”

The door opens, and Nan steps in, her eyes widening at the sight of us. “How is our patient?”

I nod, not letting go of Tasha. “She’s just... it’s been a rough day.”

Nan nods, understanding in her eyes. She checks Tasha over, her hands gentle. “You both look exhausted,” she says softly. “Stay the night here and rest.”

I realize she’s right. I’m exhausted, my body aching from the South Tower trek, the fight. And Tasha... she’s been through so much.

Nan bustles around the room, gathering her things. “I have some errands to run. I’ll be back in a bit to check on you.” She fixes me with a stern look. “Make sure she rests.”

Tasha reaches out to Nan, taking the healer’s hands in her own, “Thank you for healing me. I can already feel my strength returning.”

Nan pats her hand gently. “You just focus on getting your rest, child. I’ll take good care of you.”

I nod at Nan, and the old healer slips out, closing the door behind her.

Tasha pulls back, wiping at her tears. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to fall apart.”

I cup her face, brushing a tear away with my thumb. “You have nothing to apologize for.”

She leans into my touch, her eyes fluttering closed. “I don’t want to think about it. About Claws, about the slavers, I don’t want that to be what I remember.”

I understand. The thought of their hands on her, hurting her... It fills me with a blinding fury. But I push it down. This isn’t about me.

“What do you want, Tasha?” I ask softly.

She opens her eyes, looking at me with a heat that takes my breath away. “You,” she whispers. “I want you.”

She leans in, her lips finding mine. The kiss is soft, tentative at first. But then she deepens it, her hands sliding into my hair, twirling the white strands in her fingers.

I respond instinctively, pulling her closer. But then I pause, pulling back slightly. “Tasha... are you sure? After everything that’s happened”

She puts a finger to my lips, silencing me. “I’m sure. I need this, Droilin. I need you.”

There’s no mistaking the desire in her eyes, the need. I cup her face in my hands, my thumb brushing over her bottom lip. “Are you really —”

“I’m sure.”

Her warm breath on my skin feels like fire, and the closeness is intoxicating. That’s all the confirmation I need. I lean in, claiming her lips once more. She responds eagerly, her mouth opening under mine.

I feel her move her hand down my torso and her touch is electric. And what little restraint I am holding is lost when she finds what she is looking for. She strokes me gently, her hand wrapping around my hardness, and I’m almost undone.

Her scent is heady, her skin soft and warm under my touch. The sound of her breath quickening as we kiss is like music to my ears.

I pull back, just enough to break the kiss. We are both panting, and I can feel her pulse racing.

Tasha smiles, “Please... just fuck me Droilin!”

Her plea is all the permission I need.

I push her down onto the bed and climb on top of her, my hands roaming her body. I feel her curves, her softness, and it’s more intoxicating than anything I’ve ever known. Her pink skin is against my green and the contrast is so beautiful, I can’t help but marvel at it.

“Tasha, you’re exquisite,” I murmur, my voice thick with desire.

She smiles, a coy, shy grin. “I was going to say the same thing.”

Our mouths crash together again, our bodies melding together, and I can feel her arousal. Her heart is pounding, her body is trembling, and her eyes are wild with passion.

We undress each other, the clothes falling away as we explore each other’s bodies.

I nudge her back so she is leaning on her elbows.

“Let me show you how a real Morcrestian warrior worships his female.”

She gasps as my lips find her breast, taking her nipple into my mouth. I suck and nibble, provoking soft moans from her. My tusks graze her tender flesh, sending shivers down her spine. I move to her other breast, giving it the same attention, while my hand travels lower, caressing her thigh.

“Droilin,” she moans, arching her back. “Please”

I chuckle against her skin, the vibration making her gasp. “Patience, little human.”

I kiss a trail down her stomach, teasing her belly button, before moving lower. She trembles beneath me, anticipation coursing through her veins. My hands slide between her thighs, spreading them apart.

“So beautiful,” I murmur, taking in the sight of her wet, glistening folds. “You’re perfect, Tasha.”

She blushes, her eyes hooded with desire.

I press my lips to her inner thigh, trailing kisses up and down, before finally reaching her apex. I can’t help but smirk at the small patch of black hair covering her sex, the curls wet with her desire.

Slowly, I part her lower lips with my fingers, revealing her delicate pink folds. They’re slick with her juices, and the sight of it is almost enough to send me over the edge. But I control myself, taking a deep breath.

My tongue darts out, lapping at her sensitive nub. She lets out a soft moan, her hands tangling in my hair. I taste her, savoring her unique flavor. It’s intoxicating, and I can’t get enough.

Her hips buck against my mouth, her pleasure building with each stroke of my tongue. I grip her thighs, holding her steady as I feast on her.

Her breaths come in quick gasps, her chest heaving. Her moans grow louder, her fingers tightening in my hair.

“Droilin... I’m” she trails off, unable to form the words.

But I know what she means.

My hands move to her hips, holding her in place as I ravish her. My tusks graze her sensitive clit, and she lets out a loud cry, her body convulsing.

She rides out her release, and I can’t help but smirk. My cock is throbbing, aching to be inside her, but I force myself to wait.

Her body is still quivering, her orgasm subsiding. Her eyes are closed, a satisfied smile on her face.

“Wow,” she breathes, “that was incredible.”

I laugh, pulling her into my arms. “We’re not done yet, little human.”

She grins, her hand slipping between us, wrapping around my thick shaft. “I certainly hope not.”

I let out a groan as her hand slides along my length, stroking me with a perfect combination of pressure and rhythm. It’s too much. I won’t last if she keeps doing this.

I grab her wrist, pulling her hand away.

“Not so fast, little human. This is about you.”

She smiles, a wicked gleam in her eye. “Oh? What do you have in mind?”

I grin, flipping her onto her back. I press a finger against her entrance, teasing her folds.

She gasps, arching her back. “Oh fuck, Droilin!”

“Does that feel good?”

She nods, biting her lip. “Yes! Don’t stop.”

I grin, adding another finger, working them in and out, slowly. She writhes beneath me, her eyes fluttering shut.

I pump faster, curling my fingers, finding her sensitive spot.

Her cries of pleasure fill the air, echoing off the walls. It’s music to my ears, a beautiful song that I never want to end.

“Yes! Yes! Oh Droilin... don’t stop!”

I grin, picking up the pace. I add a third finger, stretching her deliciously. Her body responds, her muscles clenching around my fingers.

I watch as her face contorts in pleasure, her chest heaving. Her body trembles, her toes curling.

“Fuck,” she cries, her voice shaking.

I keep going, bringing her closer and closer to the edge.

“Come for me, Tasha,” I whisper, my lips against her ear. “Come for me.”

With a cry, her body goes rigid, her orgasm washing over her.

I ease my fingers out of her, gently stroking her, letting her ride out the aftershocks.

Finally, she collapses against the mattress, a look of pure bliss on her face.

“That was... amazing,” she breathes, her chest rising and falling rapidly.

I grin, kissing her neck, brushing my tusks gently against her. “I’m not finished with you yet.”

She laughs, her body trembling. “Oh?”

“I want to be inside you, Tasha,” I growl, nipping her neck. “I need to feel you around me.”

She shudders, her legs parting instinctively. “Fuck yes, please, Droilin.”

I line up the head of my cock against her wet opening, groaning at the sensation. Slowly, I press inside her, her tightness almost too much.

She gasps, her eyes wide. “Oh, fuck... Droilin”

I grunt, thrusting deeper, my body trembling with the effort of control. She’s so tight, so wet. I’ve felt nothing like this before.

She wraps her legs around my waist, her heels digging into my ass, urging me on.

“Please... please, Droilin... don’t stop!”

Her words fuel me, driving me forward. I pick up the pace, thrusting harder, faster. My hands roam her body, claiming every inch of her.

She arches her back, her nails digging into my skin. Her breaths come in ragged gasps, her moans filling the room.

I growl, pounding into her with wild abandon. Her cries of pleasure echo off the walls, driving me to the brink.

“Fuck, Tasha... I’m gonna —”

“Do it,” she pleads, her eyes glazed with lust. “Fill me, Droilin.”

Her words send me over the edge. With a roar, I climax, spilling my seed deep inside her.

My body trembles, my muscles tensing. She tightens around me, her walls milking me, drawing out my orgasm.

Slowly, I ease out of her, collapsing beside her on the bed.

“Tasha, that was” I trail off, unable to find the words.

She laughs, pulling me close, resting her head on my chest. “It was... perfect.”

We lie there, tangled in each other, basking in the afterglow. For a moment, the world outside ceases to exist. There’s no mine, no danger.

As I drive the landcrawler back to the healer’s shack, my mind is a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. The taste of Tasha still lingers on my lips, a sweet reminder of the passion we shared. But I feel a growing sense of unease.

The connection between us... it’s real. I know I’m falling for her, hard and fast. There is so much uncertainty, Garrox’s suspicious activities with the STI, the missing luminore from the mines, the sabotage... it all swirls together in my head, a storm of doubt and fear. And that’s what scares me the most.

I need to get Tasha out of here, away from Frosthok. The luminore survey provides the perfect excuse. We can head to Clan Jrosk’s lands, continue the work there. It will give me time to think, to plan our next move.

And maybe it will give us a chance to explore this thing between us without the constant threat of discovery hanging over our heads.

I enter the healer’s shack, my heart pounding in my chest. Tasha sits up in bed, her face brightening when she sees me. It takes all my willpower not to rush to her, to gather her in my arms and never let go.

“Droilin,” she mumbles, her voice like a caress. “You’re back.”

I nod, taking a seat beside her. “I had to report to Garrox. Or at least, leave a report.” I take her hand, lacing our fingers together. “Tasha... we need to leave. Today.”

Her eyes widen, a flicker of fear passing over her face. “Leave? What’s happened?”

I sigh, rubbing my thumb over her knuckles. “Nothing. Yet. But I don’t trust Garrox. And after what happened with the Nexus Fist,” I shake my head. “I can’t risk your safety. I need to get you out of Frosthok. There are two other clan mines we need to visit. That will be our cover for now.”

She nods slowly, understanding dawning in her eyes. “The luminore survey.”

“Exactly. We’ll head to Clan Jrosk’s lands, continue the work there. It will give us some distance, some time to figure out our next steps.”

She’s quiet for a moment, her gaze searching mine. “And... what about us? What happened last night?”

I lean in, cupping her face in my hand. “What happened last night,” I say softly, “was the most real, the rightest thing I’ve ever felt.” I brush my lips over hers, a feather-light touch. “I know it’s complicated. I know there are a thousand reasons why we shouldn’t do this. But I can’t walk away from you. I won’t.”

Tears shine in her eyes, a smile trembling on her lips. “I don’t want to walk away either. But... are you sure? If Garrox finds out, if anyone finds out—”

I silence her with a kiss, pouring all my love, all my certainty into it. When I pull back, we’re both breathless.

“Let me worry about Garrox,” I say firmly. “All I care about is keeping you safe. And being with you, in whatever way I can.” I stand, pulling her to her feet.

We gather a few supplies, Tasha leaning on me for support. She’s still weak, still healing. But there’s a strength in her, a resilience that takes my breath away.

“Time to get moving.”

Tasha nods, a look of resolve on her face. We slip out of the healer’s shack, making our way to the landcrawler I got at Garrox’s residence. We load our supplies and climb in, ready to leave this place behind.