Enroute to Auriga, Jana tried to coax the alien into a game of forsha, but he curiously refused and sidetracked her. After watching how well he had played their form of tennis on Darkar, it struck her as being odd.

Varian mistakenly thought he took Jana's mind off the sport he didn't like and could not play well, a fact she would notice and suspect. He couldn't let the Ryker-cyborg that was concealed in a cleverly hidden compartment stand in for him as before. Nor could the other cyborg be seen until it was needed.

Two nights before they would reach their next destination, desires blazed too high and fast to be doused. As they lay in the bed with only the light of a small lamp casting a soft glow in the room, Jana rolled to her side facing him. His head was turned her way, and their gazes met, locked, and searched. She ignored the fact his eyes were green, for she only saw the look-a familiar one-in them, one that matched what she was feeling. Each took in the other's expression of need and desire. The stare seemed to last forever as it wove a spell around them, as if neither could move nor speak. Their hearts pounded. Their pa.s.sions flamed. Their endless hunger could not be hidden or denied. A silent message pa.s.sed between their spirits, causing them to reach out and embrace, to seal their mouths. They belonged to each other; they belonged together. If only cruel fate or mischievous G.o.ds would leave them in peace.

Varian rolled Jana to her back and lay half atop her. He kissed her mouth, her nose, her forehead, her cheeks, her chin, and her mouth once more. Her hands clasped the back of his head and, with fingers buried in blond depths, held it with possessiveness against hers. Their bodies rubbed against each other, kindling their desires to a higher flame.

Jana's hands roved his broad back and reveled in the feel of his flesh next to them. She trailed them up and down the hard terrain, slow and light at first, then with swiftness and pressure. A tingling glow suffused her. She was captivated by him and his actions. Her senses reeled as if she were racing with the wind across her ranch on Apache's back. Her elusive lover was taking her to paradise, and she was more than eager and willing to go.

Varian was intoxicated by Jana's urgent need for him and her unbridled responses. With gentleness, his mouth ravished hers, then "worked its way down her neck to feast on her taut peaks. His tongue circled the rosy-brown tips. He was feverish to obtain the only thing that could cool his temperature: all of her. There was no place on her that didn't beg to be cherished by him and he complied.

Jana was oblivious to anything except Varian and the sensations he created with his skillful lips and hands. She was a shooting star blazing across love's heaven. She wanted a resolution to the bittersweet torment a.s.sailing her, but not too fast. She wanted to enjoy every instant of their union. Her kisses waxed bold and deep when his mouth returned to hers like a fiery comet that came, went, then repeated its cycle.

Varian yielded to her magnetic pull. He moaned and his hips writhed as his manroot grew in size. He felt it tremble with longing and plead for entrance to Kahala. He fought to restrain his ardor, to make this moment last forever. His adventurous fingers aroused the sensitive areas of her body and soon his lips covered the same terrain. His craving for her was tremendous. Breathing was difficult as he inhaled and exhaled erratically to slow his runaway heartbeat. He cupped one breast, rolled it beneath his hand, and teased the taut bud between his forefinger and thumb. He smelled her hair, her neck, her skin, to find that fragrance that was hers alone. He kissed her in every way imaginable, one dissolving into another and another.

Jana's fingers dipped into the shallow valley along his spine and trekked up his back tiny hump by tiny hump along it. Her breathing became swift and shallow. Surely everyone could hear the thundering of her heart. This was heaven, what he called Kahala. His compelling physique had the power to crush her body, yet it felt wonderful resting upon hers. So many impressions and images flooded her enraptured mind, and all of them heightened her desires. His hot breath in her ear made her squirm. His hand tracing over her abdomen made her tense. When it entered the cottony-soft maidenhair, she arched her back, groaned, parted her thighs, and welcomed its visit. The longer he caressed her there, the more pleasure she received, yet the stimulation also increased her tension. "I need you now," she murmured without notice.

Varian's darting tongue was met and joined by hers. Their bodies fused as one. It was a sensation of sheer bliss. He altered between slow and deliberate strokes and swift and urgent ones. He shifted his groin from side to side to caress and tantalize the straining bud. The way she pulled him closer to her and meshed her mouth to his told him she was engulfed by the same fiery furnace in which he was held captive.

Jana curled her hands around his hips and dug her fingers into his straining b.u.t.tocks. Her legs draped over his and held on to him for the erotic ride. He was swift and forceful, but he wasn't being rough. Her delights increased. She tried to match his movements. Her mouth clung to his lips, and her flesh seemingly did the same to his body.

He nibbled at her b.r.e.a.s.t.s, then the hollows of her throat. He teethed her earlobes. Then he made a terrible mistake: "Love me, Jana of Earth, love me," he murmured in her ear.

Pain seared through her heart more fiercely than desire did across her body. She read pa.s.sion smoldering in his ... emerald, not sapphire, eyes. She saw his . .. blond, not sable, head towering over her face. As he twisted his head to press kisses along her shoulders, she saw the scar along his jawline. d.a.m.n you, d.a.m.n you, d.a.m.n you. She cursed him for not having the visage of her truelove at this special moment. Her reply was out of her mouth before she could stop herself, "I do, Ryker, I do. Take me now. I need you. I want you so much."

Those words ripped out his heart and wits for a time. He thrust into her with an urgent force, needing to drive Ryker from her mind and body. Over and over he sent mighty strokes into her, movements she accepted with pleasure. He rode her like a wild man on a wild espree to vent himself of his pain, yet never hurt her in his rush and confusion.

Jana tossed aside her anguish and urged him onward and upward as a sweet and urgent signal came from deep within her womanhood. Its intensity mounted and teased, then sent charges over her entire frame from head to foot. She writhed and moaned and claimed her reward.

This woman was his heart, his soul, his world. He could not lose her to any man or force, especially to a ghost. She was unique, totally consuming. She was his, by Kahala, she was his! As she abandoned herself to taste the sweetness of release, so did he. It would be agony of mind and body to stall the inevitable any longer. His body shuddered, and he groaned as potent spasms poured his life force into her receptive portal. As pa.s.sion's flood began to subside, he caught himself before saying, I love you, Jana Greyson, I love you, aloud.

He refused to release her afterward. He switched off the light and cradled her against his dampness. As his body settled down, he suddenly realized what he had murmured earlier. Then he grasped the reason for her expression and response, her striking back at him. You know it's me, don't you, Jana, my love? May you and Kahala forgive me for what I must do soon to convince you it is not. And forgive me, my love, for being too weak to resist you and taking you while wearing his evil face.

Varian decided that before he took rash action, he should make certain she wasn't convinced of his ruse. He observed and listened as they approached their next stop. He would turn to find her watching him with a glare of anger and accusation, which she concealed quickly. The moment their eyes touched, she would paste a fake smile on her face. As he feared, she doubted him and his explanation. He had no choice but to use his last resort before reaching Maal's, one that couldn't fail him.

On Auriga, Jana was almost relieved that Avatar Rhoedea had taken ill and couldn't join them for dinner. The reason was that the ruler's daughter was an old flame of Varian's, and it was just as well she didn't have to spend the evening conversing with an alien woman who might embarra.s.s her with nosy questions or insensitive comments about her past owner.

As promised, she was allowed to have lunch with an old friend and ex-captive from the ship. Kathy had become the charl of Ferris Laus, the Security Control and Weapons' Chief on Varian's ship. Varian had even provided most of the money for Kathy's price, as a gift to them. But Kathy had a surprise for her: Heather was visiting and had come along. The other friend was charl to Spala Rilke-brother to the navigational and guidance officer on Varian's ship. Was, J. G., because Tesla Rilke died in that s.p.a.cer accident while saving your life after Shara's treachery. How would Varian explain away that death when she confronted him with it? If he had known Heather was here, he would never have permitted this kind gesture! Both females were smiling and bubbling, apparently happy. Jana was determined to enjoy herself before she sought proof of the truth.

"I can't believe we're all together again," Kathy said. "Ferris told me about you being freed and marrying a prince. That's so exciting, Jana. I wish my love could have come today; he's on leave while Commander Saar is planning his wedding with-" The female blushed and said, "I'm sorry, Jana; that was thoughtless of me."

With feigned innocence, Jana asked, "Why? It's big news."

"Because everyone, crew and captives alike, thought he would keep you for himself. The way he treated you and looked at you, I can't believe he didn't. I've heard awful tales about that woman he's going to marry. Commander Saar is too good for a hussy like that. If not for him, I don't know what would have happened to me and Ferris."

"Commander Saar is very good and loyal to his friends," Jana conceded. "I suppose he thinks he and Canissia are a perfect match or he wouldn't marry her. The same is true for me and Ryker; we're a perfect match. We're both scientists and we both needed a mate. I guess I'm lucky he chose me." That was as far as Jana was willing to go to delude the women.

"Everybody knows who your husband is," Heather said. "I heard you eloped without telling anyone. I guess you had a good reason. Tesla told us Commander Saar was furious and worried when you vanished. He searched for you and offered a large reward for your return. When he heard you had run away to marry Prince Triloni, he said he was happy for you, but Tesla doesn't believe him. Tesla thinks he's hopping into marriage with that woman to pretend he isn't hurt over losing you. I'd bet he still wants you, Jana."

"I'm sure Jana doesn't want to hear about his new romance and upcoming marriage," Kathy chided Heather in a soft tone, "especially since it's over between her and Commander Saar and she's married to someone else."

Jana sent Kathy a smile of grat.i.tude for her compa.s.sion. She knew Heather-not the brightest of females but a kind one- wasn't being hurtful on purpose. It was the girl's simple and honest traits that had enticed Jana to take her under her wing like a younger sister during the voyage to Maffei. "Tell me about you and Spala." She watched dreamy lights fill the girl's eyes.

"He's wonderful, Jana, wonderful. I was so scared on that s.p.a.ceship coming here. If it hadn't been for you, it would have been awful. I told Spala everything you did for me and he wants to meet you one day and thank you himself. I love him and he loves me. Isn't that the wildest thing? Kathy has Ferris. I have Spala. You have Ryker. We've all made good lives here."

The three women laughed, chatted, and exchanged stories of their alien romances. Yet Jana left out much of hers and lightly glossed over her surprising marriage to Ryker. "I'm so happy for you two. It's good that everything turned out so well." She changed the disquieting subject. "I love the way you're wearing your hair, Kathy, part of it swirled up and the rest hanging free. It suits your face and personality."

"Ferris likes it this way. I do everything I can to please him. I'm so lucky, Jana. I'm carrying his child, a boy, the doctor said. His family treats me so well. I'm amazed by how much I love it here. I would never go home. I can't imagine my life without Ferris. He's too marvelous for words."

"Don't either of you breathe a word to anyone about what I'm going to tell you. I think the charl laws will be abolished soon and you two can marry your men." Jana saw both women glow with excitement and joy.

They chatted again, then Jana asked Heather, "How is that brother-in-law of yours? I miss his grinning face and sparkling personality."

In her childlike manner, Heather answered, "He's doing great. We heard from him two days ago. He's off to some big a.s.signment soon. Of course he never tells us much. Spala says he can't or he'll be punished."

That wasn't the answer Jana had expected. If Tesla was alive ... He couldn't be; the Rilkes just hadn't been informed of his death! The recent message had been faked or was an old one! He couldn't be alive!

"Have you seen Tesla in the last three weeks?"

Without realizing she was in error, the scatterbrained girl responded, "Yes, he came home for three days two weeks ago."

Jana was so stunned and confused that she had a hard time paying attention to her friends during the remainder of their visit.

Jana paced the hotel suite, that distressing news plaguing her. Even if Varian had known Heather would be visiting this planet and would join them for lunch, he couldn't have put those words in her mouth. And dear, sweet, simple Heather would not lie to her, not to the person she had looked upon as a big sister during their long voyage here. If Tesla had contacted his family since the accident she believed lethal, it couldn't have happened. If that didn't happen, then ...

It didn't help Jana's tormented mind that this was the planet where she had surrendered to Varian Saar for the first time. Or rather, she had coerced and blackmailed him into seducing her, all because of a stupid chess wager. So many things during this trip reminded her of her bittersweet days with him. If she hadn't been so drawn to Varian, and if she hadn't been afraid of never knowing real love and pa.s.sion if she were sold to a terrible owner, and if she hadn't been terrified of going to some alien monster as a virgin ...

Jana halted and leaned against the wall-sized transascreen and stared into the lovely garden below. Her gaze widened and her mouth dropped open. She drew in a sharp breath of air and as the spent air rushed out of her lungs and past dry lips, her respiration altered to a rapid, shallow pace. She stared at the scene taking place two stories below her suite. She saw ... Ryker Triloni and ... Varian Sar talking, or more like arguing from their expressions and movements. She pressed her palms and forehead against the window. She stared in disbelief, alarm, and confusion.

When Ryker motioned toward the hotel, Jana jumped backward to get out of sight. She remembered that the reflective windows were visually impenetrable from the outside. She took her place again and watched her world come apart as her illusions dissolved and her heart was broken. In a near daze, she observed the agonizing episode.

The two aliens talked, with only a few feet separating them. Their rigid stances and glaring expressions exposed anger and disagreement. At one point, the blond alien shook his finger- on his right hand-at Varian. The prince's feet were planted apart and the left arm at his side held a balled fist. Varian stood in a similar position, but with arms akimbo. Neither man showed fear of the other or made any attempt to turn their verbal conflict into a physical one. They appeared to settle down for a while and to speak calmly.

No, this can't be happening! It's a lie, a trick! He knows I don't believe him and his charade and he's doing this to convince me.

Jana wondered if it was a video being played against the wall for her benefit, or a perfected holographic imagery show. She had seen three-dimensional holography on Earth that must be hundreds of levels inferior to what this advanced society possessed. Combined with their laser beam capabilities, it would be a snap for them. She watched the shadowing on the wall and on their bodies, and could find no fault with it. She saw Varian withdraw a small box from his pocket and hold it out to Ryker. She watched Ryker stiffen, glare, and knock it from the ebony-haired man's grasp.

Jana thought she would faint when the box struck a garden bush, shook it, and disturbed a group of b.u.t.terflies feasting on its blossoms. Her panicked gaze watched the colorful insects take flight, traveling beyond what could be the range of a trick picture. She saw a slender cloud move overhead and witnessed how it shaded the two conversing men for a moment.

My G.o.d, what's happening to me? Have I gone insane? How could she deny the vivid truth before her eyes? Her attempted murder and rescue had been an hallucination. Everything she thought Varian had told her afterward wasn't real. Tesla hadn't been killed in a s.p.a.cer accident. She hadn't been kidnapped by Canissia and had not left Darkar since her arrival, until now. She had been so terribly ill and must have partial amnesia as the man claimed. The Androasian prince had told her the truth all along. She was married to ... and living with Ryker Triloni. She had slept with ...

Oh, Lord, what have I done? She answered herself: You've enticed and made love to your husband and tried to make him into Varian.

The two men were speaking calmly after the incident with the box, which she hadn't seen Varian recover from the bushes. No doubt they were discussing her, and perhaps the box contained a gift for her as one had at Draco's: her refusal of the object then had provoked Varian into s.n.a.t.c.hing her away from her new home and life on Karnak.

She was shocked again when the half brothers clasped wrists, spoke, and nodded. A truce, she wondered, with me as the provider? d.a.m.n you! d.a.m.n you both to h.e.l.l and back! How dare you turn me into an object to be pa.s.sed or traded about! How dare you lie to me and betray me? Commander Varian Saar- that irresistible s.p.a.ce pirate-had done so, but Prince Ryker Triloni-her husband-had not seemed to. Not yet, anyway.

Jana saw the two aliens head in separate directions. She saw Varian halt, turn, stare at his half brother's back, then gaze up at the hotel tower. He shook his head and left without, she realized, retrieving the box. She watched Ryker round the wall of the garden. He was probably headed for their suite. She raced into the bathroom, stripped, and submerged herself in a bubble bath. However would she extricate herself from this self-made trap? How could she be a wife to Ryker in more than name only as agreed?

You've already been a wife to him! Twice, you fool! And you've flaunted yourself before him like a cheap s.l.u.t and enticed him in every way possible! But I was mistaken. And I didn't choose Ryker as my sweetheart or husband or lover, not of my own free will. How can I betray Varian and our love with another man? ... Betray him? He betrayed me! But that has nothing to do with this mess. How can I make love to him again? He's almost a stranger to me.

The door swished open and the handsome blond alien entered the room. He came forward smiling, and squatted beside the tub. His gaze fastened to her face. Jana eased lower into the concealing bubbles. Her face pinkened so much that the rosy color splashed down her neck and onto her wet chest. Varian knew he had won, because she wouldn't be modest with him in this stirring situation. What he had just done to her was difficult. Was the cyborg ruse worth its motive, even if it hastened and ensured his mission? "Did you have a good time with your friend?" he asked.

The quivering Earthling tried to act calm. "Yes, it was wonderful. Heather, the other captive I told you about from my country, joined us. She's here visiting while her husband handles business matters. She's the one who looks and sounds like a teenager."

Varian knew he didn't need to be alarmed, as Tesla's death had not been revealed to his family. In fact, the Rilkes were led to believe he was still alive because the location and cause of his death could not be released yet. And, before going on leave, Ferris Laus had been given a mind-block to prevent him from sharing the carefully guarded events on Darkar with his wife Kathy or others. "I remember your mention of her. She was the one you were so worried about because she's so childlike. Do you still have reason to worry? Did you get your quota of gossip and good stories?"

Jana nodded. "Excellent food, too. Your choice of restaurants was perfect. It was lovely and quiet and private, just what we needed for a visit. It was so good seeing them again. They're both very happy. It seems they made perfect matches. Oh, yes, Kathy and Ferris are expecting a baby."

"We make a perfect match, too, Jana of Earth. I hope you agree."

Afraid her expression might expose her feelings, she looked at and toyed with bubbles as she responded, "Of course I do ... I thought I'd take a long and lazy bath, then rest this afternoon. You said we're going dancing and sightseeing tonight, so I want to gather lots of energy. I wasn't expecting you back until early evening."

"I finished one meeting and I have another this afternoon. I'll return in time to have our own fun. I'll see you later." He kissed her forehead before leaving, and left the concealed listening device where it was-the miniature dot that had told him when to begin his last ruse. That, along with the signal that had buzzed when she approached the window and broke the beam between two sensors.

I wish you hadn't forced me to use that lookalike cyborg, Moonbeam. I was desperate for you to believe I'm Ryker before we reach Androas and Maal. One slip and our lives could be lost. Our worlds could be lost. If there was any other way to accomplish something this crucial, I would do it and not involve you. I'll keep you safe from harm. Hold on for just a while longer, my love, just a while longer.

Jana looked in all directions as she sneaked from the room to slip into the garden below their window. Fortunately no one was around to see or to halt her. And fortunately Ryker had not asked her to return the electrocard for operating their suite door. She walked to the bush, glanced around, and tried to nonchalantly retrieve the box while pretending to smell the blossoms. She strolled to the wall, leaned against it, and stared at the item in her shaky hand. Should she open it? Should she put it back?

She lifted the lid and looked inside. Anguish knifed her heart, sliced to her very soul. The box contained the gold bracelet Varian had snapped onto her wrist for her birthday, following a terrible quarrel when he mistakenly believed she had been defiant. In a way, it had been a truce token, as she herself now was. The attraction between them had become powerful and both had been doing their best to resist it. Their nerves had been raw, and the tension almost unbearable. She recalled his words: "For both of our sakes, Jana, never yield to me, never. If you do, I swear I'll place you at the top of my list of adversaries. I'm truly sorry that friendship has been so difficult between us. From now on, I'll try my d.a.m.nedest to control my temper. Beware of me, Jana; I can hurt you deeply without meaning to do so." He had kissed her with hunger and left.

How would she ever get Varian out of her life? By cutting him out as he had cut her out of his. She walked to the trash receptacle, disposed of the misleading gift, and returned to her room.

Not once during Jana's misadventure did she sight the blond alien who was watching her with troubled green eyes. Perhaps he should be comforted by the fact she truly thought she had been making love to him instead of Ryker, but somehow even that realization did not a.s.suage his anguish. More than ever before, he perceived his great fear of losing her forever. Even if that horror came true, at least she would be alive and safe. Without a truce with Androas and Maal, she wouldn't be either one, nor would Maffei. He took a deep breath, grimaced, and went to fulfill his self-destructive duty.

Jana made it through the dinner and dancing with Ryker. To make certain she was exhausted enough to sleep undisturbed by memories, she suggested they walk back to the tower where they were staying. She almost suggested they take the shuttle and return to his ship because she wanted to leave this planet where Varian had won her heart months ago, then broken it today. She was glad they hadn't run into him and hoped they wouldn't before departure.

Ryker held her hand as they strolled along. He pointed out sites and smiled and spoke to people, who couldn't conceal their astonishment at his genial manner. Most of them looked at the exquisite Earthling at his side with an obvious respect and admiration for her good effect on this powerful and dangerous male who must remain their ally.

"I seem to be the object of great curiosity and disbelief this evening," he quipped. "You would think these people have never seen me smile before." He chuckled and squeezed her hand. "I suppose they're right. You're good medicine for me, Jana of Earth."

"Why would you need healing? You seem perfect to me."

"Then you, my generous wife, are as blinded by our match as I am."

"Perhaps there are times and occasions when a lack of clear vision is wise and rewarding," she said as if jesting, then smiled at him.

"True. Did I tell you how beautiful you look? I'm very proud of you."

"Yes, you did, several times, and thank you again."

His emerald-eyed gaze moved over her glowing features. Her tawny hair was captured within an unnoticeable blond net that had precious gems attached. The clear jewels sparkled and shimmered when light touched them as if she had numerous tiny and twinkling stars settled there. Her outer garment in a striking fusion of blues, greens, and purples was sheer and flowing from neck to ankle, with a silk slip dress in blue underneath. The colors almost matched her eyes and certainly enhanced them. She was radiant and bewitching. She was trying very hard to behave as his happy and lucky wife. No doubt she had everyone fooled by her attempt except him.

"Let's stroll through the park and stop entertaining everyone we pa.s.s." He guided her into a quiet, softly lit, and romantic area.

Jana's heel suddenly caught in a crack in the walkway. She almost pitched forward to the ground as it held her captive. With quick reflexes, Ryker caught her and prevented a fall.

As he knelt to free her, Jana rested her hand on his shoulder and slipped out of the shoe. She wobbled slightly on the other heel as she held the bare foot off the ground. She watched Ryker use his strength to unwedge it, then hold her ankle to replace the shoe. His head lifted and he fused his gaze to hers, then rose slowly without breaking the visual bond.

"I can be a lot of trouble," she teased to ease the tension.

"But you're worth every particle of it."

"Only because you have all it takes to handle me. I doubt there is anything you can't do."

"Your confidence pleases me." He plucked a lacy flower, smelled it, and handed it to her. "No where in the galaxy does beauty exist more than in your face and being, Jana Greyson," he said.

She wondered if it was love and not just desire that she saw in his eyes and heard in his voice. Was it possible? So fast? Yes, she knew from experience that love at first sight was a fact. But a man like Ryker wouldn't be as impulsive and foolish as she had been. On the other hand, one did not always pick the person who captured one's heart. Her eyes roved his striking visage. His hair was the color of wheat at various stages of ripening: three-fourths dark and one-fourth light. It had waves that reminded her of the gentle lapping of water on the beach at low tide and was swept back from his face but allowed to remain full and soft before it drifted into near curls at his nape. His skin was like cream sherry, the most expensive brand. His features were bold and arresting: high cheekbones, the perfect-size nose, thick, dark brows, and a jawline that squared at his chin. His eyes were as green and dark as leaves on her magnolia trees. His mouth was full and inviting. It was as if she were looking at him, really looking at him and seeing him for the first time.

Her bold study continued down his throat to a virile physique. The off-white outfit made his tan seem darker and s.e.xier. Muscles bulged in his arms and the snug top of the garment evinced his broad shoulders, trim waist, and flat abdomen. Its fitted pants did the same for narrow hips and sleek thighs. He was indeed magnetic and breathtaking.

Her gaze returned to his mouth with its wide and full lower lip. Her fingertips traced over it with provocative leisure, then did the same with his jawline without even pausing at the scar Varian had put there long ago. "I can say the same of you, Ryker Triloni, and I do. You look especially handsome tonight." As her hands moved over his chest, she murmured, "This color is your best one."

He couldn't help but cup her face and hold it while he lowered his head and lips to kiss her. He felt her arms band his body and they kissed several times as their pa.s.sions heightened.

Soon, in self-defense, he released her. "We'd better get back to our suite. This is dangerous sport in public."

Jana laughed and nodded. "You're right, as usual, my husband."

As they strolled away with arms at each other's waist and snuggled close, a reporter snapped his last picture of what he a.s.sumed was a loving couple who could not resist each other. This would make interesting and surprising news across the Tri-Galaxy, and a nice profit for him.

At the hotel, "Ryker" was handed a message sent by a prearranged signal to his man. "It's from Captain Kagan," he told Jana. "He's been trying to reach me for hours. There's a problem I'll have to check on right now. Go on to bed. I'll probably be very late. We leave in the morning." He had to avoid a terrible decision on her part. He couldn't allow his love to test her ability to surrender to Ryker. He also had to prevent tempting himself beyond control to take advantage of what appeared responsiveness in her following his cruel ruse this afternoon. If they went to the suite together and he didn't make love to her after whetting their sensual appet.i.tes earlier, she would get suspicious again.

Jana sent him a feigned smile of disappointment. "I understand. I'll see you in the morning for departure. Good night, Ryker. It was a wonderful evening. I come to enjoy your company more each day."

"As I do yours, Jana of Earth. Good night, my enchanting wife."

At starlight speed and with the planet's current alignment and close proximity to their last stop, they reached Zamarra late the next day. It, she recalled, was the first alien world and charl auction she had experienced following her capture from Earth. It was where Varian, after their torrid two-week love affair, exposed her as his "reluctant and helpless" mistress to "spare her any repercussions from her future owner." She didn't want to think about those difficult and bittersweet episodes, and dismissed them.

Zamarra was an undersea world that amazed and enthralled her. The shuttlecraft landed on a clear surface above the turquoise water. Another craft surfaced and docked at the edge of the st.u.r.dy landing pad. They took their seats in the bulletshaped seacraft of clear material. As soon as the interior conditions were at correct life-support level, the craft submerged in the watery domain. As before, Jana watched unusual plants, colorful fish, and aquatic creatures pa.s.s or be pa.s.sed by them.

The ride was fast, smooth, and quiet. No one spoke during this almost dreamy part of the journey. A ma.s.sive city enclosed in various-size clear domes with offshoots spreading in several directions appeared below and left of them. The largest was the planet's business and shopping core. Smaller ones contained residential and recreational areas that were connected to the center via above-floor surface tunnels. The seacraft approached the biggest dome. It skimmed along the outer edge of the main complex, then entered a docking area. The vehicle's door was attached to a portal which opened to allow their entrance to the undersea wonder. Also, as before, Jana stared at the greenishblue water above them and bearing down with tremendous pressure. She could imagine the terror and destruction if those walls ever cracked or shattered, but she could not imagine living beneath the ocean every day of her life.

As they headed for their accommodations, they walked through a setting in shades of mostly white and green. Walkways and buildings were constructed of ivory stone. Sweeping green plants decorated the landscape and provided a tropical and exotic aura. Every time she glanced upward, she was reminded that the blue "sky" overhead was composed of water, with a man-made sun and clever lighting to fake daytime. Even wispy white clouds had been added for a beautiful and realistic effect. At the proper hour, as she recalled, a manmade moon and stars did the same to supply a romantic illusion. Beyond the water's surface, however, two moons-one appearing gold and the other silver-orbited this last planet in the Maffei star system.

Jana knew a long evening of dinner, dancing, and entertainment was planned with Avatar Suran. She had selected her best gown for this special occasion, and she was looking forward to visiting as an elite guest, not a lowly captive slave.

As the huge starship left Zamarra behind, Jana eyed the strange world of concealed wonders. She sighed and said, "I've had my most fun here. The food was delicious, the dance wonderful, the entertainment enjoyable, and the company and conversation superb. Avatar Suran is a rare gentleman and excellent host. I liked him the first time we met and he didn't change my good opinion of him last night. I'm glad you had to make this stop."

"I was happy to see that you didn't let the fact he's the richest man in Maffei intimidate you. You're the perfect guest and companion, Jana of Earth. You made me very proud of you last night. And speaking of Earth, that's Anais on the horizon, the temporary colony for Earthlings." Varian thought of his friends working there for a while: Nigel, Tristan, and Martella. He grinned as he remembered the way his best friend Nigel had spoken of Jana's best friend from Earth during their last communication.

Jana's gaze followed the direction in which his finger was pointed; it located the small and dark planetoid. Suspense, sadness, and antic.i.p.ation filled her at being close to her race and perhaps Andrea. "I wish we could visit there. It would be heaven to see some of my own people."

He spoke part of the truth first. "I'm sorry, love, but that can't be arranged, and I haven't found a way to smuggle a secret note in or out yet. But I've done the second best thing for you: Andrea McKay from Texas is there, safe and calm. She was told the truth about you, so she knows you're safe and fine." Then, of necessity, he lied. "When Captain Kagan called me away from you last night, it was to retrieve information about your best friend. Ca.s.s extracted it for me from a supply shuttle captain. I won't give you the vulgar details of how that l.u.s.ty vixen worked her task."

His s.e.xual implication was clear, and Jana was revolted by an engaged woman's conduct. "How did you get her to do such a risky favor for you?"

He sent her a roguish grin that caused his green eyes to twinkle. "When I asked nicely for the favor, she refused, so I resorted to blackmail. I threatened to expose her traitorous activities if she didn't comply."