Loving Kale by Gabriella Clark
Summary:

For 29 yr old Mia Johnson finding out that aliens existed and were actually on earth was a bit of a shock. Finding out her super hot boss was one and wanted to date her... well….beam her on up!

When the Selkrians ‘came out the closet’ and announced they had been living among us for hundreds of years, it took me some time to wrap my head around it. But when war didn't break out I breathed a sigh of relief and got on with my life. When Kale Kapena, CEO of Totality, Mr. Why are you so sexy, aka my boss announced he was one, I kept on with my job then too. Hey they haven't taken over the planet after all this time so I would give them the benefit of doubt.

But when he started to flirt and invite me out for dinner I needed to take a moment. It was hard enough getting a earth guy to commit let alone a alien! With my luck it would turn out like a bald guy winning a comb. But I couldn't resist, at least it would be a hell of a ride *wink*


Categories: Books, Original Fiction Characters: None
Classification: None
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Science Fiction
Story Status: Completed
Pairings: None
Warnings: Adult Situations, Original Characters, Sexual Content , Strong Sexual Content
Challenges: None
Series: Loving Kale
Chapters: 10 Completed: Yes Word count: 26704 Read: 41177 Published: February 09 2018 Updated: March 18 2018

1. Chapter 1 by Gabriella Clark

2. Chapter 2 by Gabriella Clark

3. Chapter 3 by Gabriella Clark

4. Chapter 4 by Gabriella Clark

5. Chapter 5 by Gabriella Clark

6. Chapter 5.5 by Gabriella Clark

7. Chapter 7 by Gabriella Clark

8. Chapter 8 by Gabriella Clark

9. Chapter 9 by Gabriella Clark

10. Chapter 10 by Gabriella Clark

Chapter 1 by Gabriella Clark

1


I still remember the day when the aliens introduced themselves to the world.
It was a typical Wednesday and I was cursing my rotten luck as I changed out of my coffee stained work shirt. That was my last clean shirt and I was shoulders deep in the closet trying to find anything remotely clean to wear. My washer had broken last week and I had been making do with short trips to the laundromat down the street.
“Ah Ha!” I held up a shirt in triumph just as I heard my phone go off. “Hey girl what's up?” I asked my best friend Shaye as I struggled into the shirt. “Mia have you seen the news this morning?” “ No still trying to get ready for work,what's going on?” I asked as I walked over to my dresser and grabbed the remote. “Turn it on quick!” She said hurriedly “You'll never believe what's happening!”

I tuned in to the news channel and sat down slowly in shock as the images on the screen showed the impossible. “ That's right folks” the news anchor said excitedly  “As impossible as this may seem we have confirmed contact with alien life. Representatives from the world Selkrai have stepped forward with the shocking announcement that we are not alone in the universe and they have been living among us for years…..”




Fast forward to today as more and more Selkrians came out the closet so to speak about their true nature, the world became more tense. It was a bitter pill to swallow for the human race that they had blended so seamlessly with us but was responsible for so many technological advances throughout history. Thankfully we avoided an all out war in the early days since they came with words of peace and offering to share knowledge and resources.

Apparently the more advanced Selkrians had stumbled upon our world hundreds of years ago and decide to investigate. Upon learning that our planet was similar (although much younger) to their own they decided to keep watch and guide us along our way. That included some of them starting businesses and immersing themselves in human culture. This was made easy due in part to their advanced technology. Not to mention their appearance matched ours enough to pass. A few key differences is that they're taller than your average human with the females being at least 5’10 and the males over 6’3. The females are built along more lean lines with the males being pure muscle. The most telling difference would be their pointed ears, rainbow colored eyes and supernaturally good looks. They were at first content to be in the background and help without us ever knowing they were there, However with all the recent natural and political disasters happening they decided to step forward for a more hands on approach.

Not much is known about their culture except that they are a male dominated society that values honor and they are quite long lived although how long no one was quite sure. They also have family groups called Hales that operate somewhat like a wolf pack, with the Lakai being the leader.They have mastered space travel and their robotics and weapons technologies would make the terminator hesitate. In the years since the reveal they have proved themselves to be quite helpful and willing to peacefully coexist. Although they have refused to show us anything to do with weapons development. To be honest I don't blame them, humans cause enough damage without adding super weapons to the mix.

It came as quite a shock when the CEO of Totality, the parent company of big names such as premier vacation resort Bucket List and tech giant Autonomous recently stepped forward and revealed that he was a Selkrian and was in fact the founder of the company that had been in business since the 30’s. Did I mention that he only looks like he's 35, is my boss and is H O T? I never would have guessed that my job as human resources director would change so much. I went from creating powerpoints on sexual harassment to species equality. Luckily we were assigned a Selkrian named Ly’lah to the department to help us with blending everything together into a cohesive whole. She was a little distant and formal but I shrugged it off, chalking it up to the difference in cultures.

I was going through my emails at work the week after the announcement was made, when I saw one that made me pause. It was from the CEO’s secretary and announced that there was going to be a meeting held in the executive conference room in one hour. It stated that the CEO would like to meet with all department heads and go over the direction in which the company would take in the future. I grabbed my phone and shot Shaye a quick text. Since she was the director of marketing I knew she would have gotten the same email.

Hey have you seen the email?

Hell yeah. She wrote back quickly if I had known I was going to see that hunk of alien hotness today I would have worn the good bra!

I snorted out a laugh I don't think that would have mattered, have you seen their woman?’  

‘ Girl plz have you seen these curves? He need some black girl magic in his life!’  I laughed out loud and shook my head, lacking in confidence my bestie was not.

‘Your too much sometimes’ I sent back with a shake of my head ‘ Save me a seat would you? I want to go over  my notes on the internship one more time’

‘No problem, but dont worry too much! It's a great idea!  She sent this with a thumbs up emoji

I thought about everything that had been going on in the last few years, I mean aliens! Who would have ever thought that there were other life forms out there! I always thought that if we were here it would have to be others, but belief and actual fact are two different things. I’m still in shock since that announcement, a small part of me thinking that this is all just a hoax and the president will come on t.v. like surprise! Just playing! Then to find out my boss is one… my hunka hunka boss I’ve only caught glimpses of around the building and at the annual parties the company threw. It couldn't have been easy for them to reveal themselves and I thought back to the earlier years when there was looting and rioting going on. I remember Shaye and I hiding out in my house until the dust had settled, the mandatory curfews, and the worry that somebody would break in. Everything had been shut down for about a month before order had been restored and I had breathed a sigh of relief that we had remained unscathed from it all.

 

I sighed quietly to myself and turned my attention towards opening the file i had on the internship. I knew it was a good idea but wasn't sure how it would be received since Totality hadn't ever offered an internship. I quickly typed up and printed out a rough draft, I hadn't been expecting to present the idea so soon but now was as good a time as any. I wanted to make sure I could give a satisfactory answer in case I was called on to give an update about what my department had been working on. We were really excited about this and I hoped it would be approved.  As the leader in phone and computer technology, I knew several prestigious colleges that would love to offer it to their students. This seemed a great time to get a feel for how it would be received by the higher ups.


Chapter 2 by Gabriella Clark

2

I walked into the conference room and looked around quickly. I spotted an empty seat next to Shaye and headed over, exchanging smiles with my fellow department heads. For all that it was a surprise to find out that our boss was an alien, this has been the best company I've ever worked for. The benefits and pay were awesome and the company seemed to genuinely keep their employees in mind when making decisions that affected them. Sure you have your personality clashes and differences in opinion, but for the most part everyone got along.

“Hey” I said sitting down “ anything good happen yet?”

“Not really” Shaye said rolling her eyes “everyone seems to be taking bets on whether or not this meeting is going to be about layoffs to have us replaced by Selkrians”

I shook my head “Wow it's like they immediately jump to worse case scenario. They haven't given us any reason to believe there will be a mass layoff. Next thing you know it'll be bets on when the anal probing will start!”

Shaye laughed “ I can see it now it'll be right up there with random drug testing”

We giggled together but stopped as Tyler from accounting leaned over and said “Yeah laugh it up but you have no idea what these… aliens...are really up to. I mean why would they stay here and not just go back to their own planet? And what's up with this meeting? we've never had a meeting with the CEO before.”

I just barely resisted the urge to roll my eyes, nevermind that in my 6 years working here there had never been any type of layoff and the department heads frequently interacted with Mr. Kapena’s admin “Calm down Tyler, let's not start manning the lifeboats before we hit the iceberg alright?” I replied calmly “let's see what's going on first and then we can go from there”.

“Exactly” Shaye said “Hey you never know maybe we're all getting raises!” I stifled a laugh at that. Tyler narrowed his eyes and opened his mouth to reply when the door to the conference room opened and the CEO stepped in.

I could feel my eyes widen as I took in Kale Kapena, as good as he looked on tv it was nothing compared to him in person. An air of total command and dominance surrounded him, my instincts shouted do not engage! while my ovaries waved hello. Pitch black hair fell in a straight line to muscular shoulders and he had to be at least 6’5. Clad in what was obviously a tailor made suit, he paused at the head of the conference table and gazed around the room.

I held my breath as his violet colored eyes came to rest on me. Was it just my imagination or did his eyes seem to linger before moving on? “Good afternoon everyone” he said voice deep and slightly accented. “I want to thank you all for showing up on such short notice. I felt it was best to provide some information about myself and the role I play in the Selkrian hierarchy and get everyone up to speed on a new venture that I have planned”

His full lips quirked up into a smile before continuing “As I'm sure you're all aware my name is Kale Kapena. I am the original founder of this company and I am also the Lakai of the largest Hale in the United States.” Wow I thought to myself no wonder he has such a strong presence. From what I understood the Lakai is the strongest, most cunning member of the hale. It wasn't an inherited position, it was awarded through a series of trials that the stronger members of the hale competed in. “This company was originally founded as a way to help humans advance technologically and to use the profits to assist my people in living amongst you.” His smile widened before he said “ I doubt that the selk currency would be accepted at the local stores”

Everyone chuckled at that and the tension in the room eased. “I would also like to advise you all that I believe it is time to begin a new facet of Totality. In the past we have taken some of the technology we Selkrians have and introduced it to you. We have also blended Human ideas with Selkrian tech to enhance and build upon human technology. I would like to propose that we gather the brightest of Human and Selkrian minds together to work towards something new.”

Excited murmurs swept the room and he held up one tanned long fingered hand for quiet. “ This new venture is still in the early stages but I would like to see what each department may have to contribute. If anyone has ideas they would like to share they are welcome to set up an appointment with my admin.” His eyes swept the room again before he said “  I would like each department head to come up and introduce themselves and give a brief summary on anything new that they are working on or of any concerns. Seeing your names on paper is one thing but I would like to put faces with the reports i’ve been receiving from you all.”

He looked towards where I was seated and this time I knew it wasn't my imagination as he deliberately held my eyes with his for a moment. “ Now I'm going to turn the floor over to you guys and we can start with the right side of the room.”

I took a deep breath and silently cursed my luck, I was sitting in the second seat on the right. Tyler was on my right side so I at least had some time to gather myself and my thoughts together. I hated speaking in public, I could do it but I wasn't the type of person that liked a lot of attention on me. Tyler usually droned on like that guy from the eye drops commercial and it would be a miracle if any one was left alive at the end of his speech. I looked around the table and smirked to myself as he stood up and walked towards the front of the room. I could see lots of quickly hidden grimaces and found it hilarious. My eyes swung back around the table and landed on Mr Kapena. I noticed that he was watching me and quickly wiped the smirk from my face. He raised an eyebrow at me and I gave a little shrug before smiling and turning away.

“Good Morning everyone. I’m Tyler and I’m one of the heads of accounting” he said standing at the front of the table with a sheaf of papers in his hands. I looked at it in horror Oh I know he is not going to try and read all of that! I thought in dismay. He shuffled the papers in his hand and began to go over the figures from last month’s budget report and I resisted the urge to drop my head on the table.

Shaye lened close and whispered in my ear “ At least there’s no powerpoints or graphs” we watched in silence as Tyler reached over and turned on the projector located at the front of the table and brought out a laser pointer from his pocket “ Oh God” she groaned quietly before sitting back in her chair.

“As you can see here by this chart I project that if we cut back on certain departments expenditures we can save a project 3% each quarter” he said moving the laser to circle the figure on the chart. He droned on for another ten minutes and I stared at the wall across from me until a movement caught my attention. Looking down I noticed Mr. Kapena held hi chin on one hand between his thumb and pointer figure. What had caught my attention though was the fact that his head was bobbing forward and he kept catching himself. He caught himself again and shaking his head sat up straighter in his chair. Taking a look at his watch he grimaced and stood up. Tyler trailed off as Mr. Kapena rose and smiled a bit stiltedly at him.

“Thanks so much for your contribution Tyler,I’m sorry but we are on a bit of a time crunch here….”

Tyler looked confused “ But...but i’m not done..I haven't even gotten to our gross projections for next quarter”

Mr. Kapena looked pained but smiled again “ That's quite alright Tyler you my email them to my admin and I can go over them at a later date”

Tyler looking subdued turned off the projector and gathered his papers. I stood up as he started walking back to his seat, giving him a sympathetic smile as I moved past him to take my place at the front. I guess CEO even get bored, although I would have thought he would like going over the numbers Tyler had presented. I noticed as I took my place at the head of the table that Mr. Kapena had yet to take a seat. I stood almost even with him and couldn't help but notice the difference in our heights.

I felt positively dwarfed as I stood there standing next to him in that moment. I was only 5’3 and 150 pounds (since I've never met a dessert I didn't like) the differences between us was obvious. He looked to be made of pure muscle with a long lean runner's body. He looked at me as he sat back in his seat, his eyes running down my body slowly. He raised his eyes back up and met my gaze and I watched as his eyes darkened slightly. I tore my gaze from his and turning towards the front of the table,  smiled brightly at everyone “ Hey guys my name is Mia Jones and I'm the head of human resources, I’ve been with the company for over 6 years and really enjoy my work here” I shrugged and laughed a little “ Never could have imagined that I would be working with aliens, it’s been an experience to say the least” As my coworkers laughed and murmured their agreement, I glanced towards our CEO. He was sitting back in his chair relaxed and his face was calm, but just as I thought he may not have liked what I said, he caught my eye with his and smiled slowly.

I blushed and coughed to clear my throat, looking down at my notes as I tried to gather my thoughts after that one smile scrambled my brains. “ My department has been working on a new project. Since Autonomous and Bucket list are arguably the best  in the technology and travel industries, I thought we could start an internship program. Not only will it be a way to get in some fresh new ideas but it will also help clear some of the mystery and distrust that exist between Humans and Selkrians.”

Looking at the nods I was receiving from my coworkers around the table, even the one coming from Mr. Kapena, I felt an immense feeling of pride. It seemed as if the idea had been received well. I gave a little bow and concluded with a “thanks for your time today” and walked back to my seat. Catching Shaye’s eyes as she passed me on her way for her turn she gave me thumbs up and mouthed ‘told you so’. I crossed my eyes at her before dropping into my chair and directing my attention towards the head of the table.


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As we all stood gathering our things after the meeting had ended, I snuck a glance across the room at Mr.Kapena. I stilled as I saw that he was up and moving in my direction. I quickly turned towards Shaye and whispered “ Is he coming over here?”  she glanced casually over my shoulder and whispered back “ Danger Will Robinson, danger”  I choked back a laugh as I heard a “Ms. Jones?” coming from behind me.

I threw back my shoulders, slowly turned around and raised my eyes to meet his “Hello Mr. Kapena, how are you?” He gave me that slow smile again and said “ I'm very well thank you, I was quite intrigued by the idea of an internship and would like to discuss it further with you.” I swallowed hard “Of course”

“If you could meet me in my office in about 30 minutes?”

“Sure no problem that’ll be perfect.” As he nodded at us and moved away I felt a hand on my arm and looked over at Shaye. Her eyes sparkled mischievously as she said “ Looks like he does want some black girl magic after all!’


Kale

While I knew who the heads of the various departments were, this was the first time I had met with any of them. I of course approved any hiring and promotions for the management level positions, but that was merely paperwork that was submitted to me. All I usually did was review their recommendations and work history and go from there. I realized now that that was a grave oversight on my behalf. I never knew there was such an intriguing person in our hr department.

I embarassed to admit that I had almost nodded off during the accounting department's meeting. It wasnt his fault, I had stayed up late the previous night and...who am I kidding...His presentation was boring. Hey I liked money as much as the next Selkrian, but when it's presented in a dry tone and droning voice...snores happened. But when the lady I had noticed when I first walked into the room stood up next, I certainly woke up then. She had completely captured my attention and I felt an insane urge to get to know her better.

I was aware of not only the imbalance in our positions with my being her boss, but with the fact that we were totally different species. I knew I would have to tread carefully and approach her in a non threatening way, but I was fully prepared to do that. I tried to keep my fascination hidden as I stared at Mia Jones. In all my years I had never felt such a pull towards someone, such an intense desire to learn all I could about them.Her dark brown eyes sparkled as she spoke about an internship program her department had been putting together.

The internship was a pretty good idea and I  wondered why it had not occurred to me before to do the same, but I was thankful she had come up with it. It would give me the chance to possibly get to know her better and see if maybe she would be interested in getting to know me. Make no mistake I was very interested in getting to know her. From her burgundy colored curls that fell below her shoulders complemented by her caramel skin, to the hour glass figure she had packed into gray slacks and a white button up shirt, to the way she gestured animatedly and her obvious passion for what she spoke about. All of it appealed to me and at that moment I knew she would be mine.

End Notes:

The next chapter will be out on Tuesday night! Stay Tuned!

Chapter 3 by Gabriella Clark

3

I stood outside Mr. Kapena’s office, having already made it past his admin and took a quick moment to gather myself. Ok girl you can do this I thought you're going to sell him on this idea, he’s going to love it and as a special thank you, your getting a extra week of vacation time. I shook my head at myself, as if, if he gave the go ahead on the internship all that would result in was a bigger workload for me but it would be worth it. I truly felt that this would help the company and bridge some of the gap that was between humans and selkrians by allowing us to work more closely together. I raised my hand and knocked, at the “come in” I opened the door and stepped inside.

“Ms. Jones, thank you for coming please have a seat here” he greeted,  gesturing at one of the comfortable armchairs set up in a small seating area across the room. I murmured a thank you as I walked towards the chair, a little taken aback at the informal seating. He laughed a little “Sorry, sometimes I get tired of sitting behind that desk all day and like a little change of pace” I smiled at him and took a seat “No problem, I totally understand”

I took a quick glance around the room, impressed by the floor to ceiling windows he had behind his large mahogany desk that was placed in the center of the room, giving him a awesome view of the city. On the opposite wall from where we were seated tall bookshelves lined the wall beside a couple of closed doors. One I assume led to a bathroom the other was a mystery. The area we were seated in was set up comfortably with a couple armchairs, a couch and a coffee table. There was a large tv mounted on the wall above a fireplace and next to that a small kitchenette.

I took a moment to study him as he took the seat across from me, he had removed his suit jacket and rolled his sleeves up. Hair lightly dusted sinewy forearms while his broad shoulders filled out his shirt nicely. I could tell his chest was heavily muscled, narrowing down to a trim waist and long legs. I knew selkrian males were more powerfully built than human men, but he obviously led a very active lifestyle, this was not the body of a paper pusher!

I glanced up quickly as a discreet cough caught my attention. I met Mr. Kapena’s laughing eyes as he said “My eyes are up here”

I gasped, horrified “Mr. Kapena..”

“Call me Kale please I insist” he interrupted

“Ok...Kale.. I'm so sorry to be caught staring at you like that, I don't know what I was thinking”

He cocked his head at me “Caught? Your not sorry to have been staring, but that you were caught at it?”

I paused and stared at him, eyes round with shock crap I said that out loud. He stared back at me and my eyes narrowed was he? I looked harder and saw his lips twitch he was! Mines twitched in response and soon we were roaring with laughter. “Oh my god” I gasped “I can't believe you caught me! And that you called me on it!”

He wiped a knuckle under his eye, his laughter slowing “Me! What about you! No remorse just that you were caught in the act!”  We chuckled again quietly.

“Well can you blame me? You are pretty attractive, can't be mad at me for appreciating the view” I quipped smiling slightly. He quieted looking deep into my eyes and whispering “No. I can't. But neither can you blame me” I blushed slightly, was he saying what I thought he was saying? This was getting a bit too intense  

“Ah… so I brought up the plans we have so far on the internship program” I looked away and grabbed the second folder with the copies I had made for him in it and handed it to him. “If you look here I was planning on starting with one intern for both Autonomous and Bucket list to start. Once we receive feedback from both the departments and the intern, check the budget reports and of course if your agreeable,  we can see about possible expanding up to a max of three interns for the following years ”

He nodded looking over the papers I had given him which detailed the length of the internship, compensation, and what the intern would be doing. He was silent as he read through the pages and I waited quietly, hoping that he would believe this was something feasible and that I would be given the go ahead to implement it.

“Well this looks fantastic and like something we should definitely be doing. We’ll need to fine tune the pay, length and assignment details though, but i'm sure this can be done. Go ahead and get this finalized and we will see about getting it set up” Kale said after he was done looking over the paperwork.

I smiled ecstatic “ awesome I'll get that done as soon as possible”  I looked down at my watch and blinked, shocked at the time “Oh wow look at that, I think I've kept you from your lunch I should get going”  There had been no awkward pauses or feeling rushed, our conversation had flowed so smoothly I didn't realize we had been speaking for an hour. Kale looked at the clock on the wall and said “You're right it’s past lunch time. How about I order some up for the both of us? My treat?” I hesitated and then mentally shrugged why the hell not, the food would probably be worth it and technically it would be a business lunch. “Sure that sounds great”

He walked over to his desk and turned around to look at me while reaching for the phone. “ Does Italian work for you?”

“Yes sounds good” I tried not to sound too excited, Italian food is one of my favorites, with meatballs being a guilty pleasure for me.

“Maureen? Could you order 2 specials from the usual place? Thanks” He set down the receiver and walked back towards me saying “That should be here in about 30 minutes, while we wait can you tell me how you came up with the idea for the internship?”

I considered my answer carefully, not wanting to offend him. Before replying “Well ever since the selkrians came out to the public things have been tense, don't get me wrong it’s a lot better now than it was at first but I feel like opening the doors and allowing students to come in to a selkrian company, work with us and essentially get to know us will go a long way to further easing that tension.”

“Your right, which is why I think your idea is so good. It’s also why I want to put in place a joint venture with humans and selkrians, so you all will see we are here to help’” He sat next to me on the couch,and  holding my gaze with his he asked “ what about you? How do you feel about selkrians?”

I tilted my head a little and said “Well so far we haven't been given any cause for concern, I mean you’ve been helpful and if you wanted to take over the world or turn us into mindless slaves you would have done it by now” He laughed a little and said “True enough, but how do you feel about working for a selkrian?” I took a deep breath and said “I've always felt like this is one of the best jobs I've ever had and I'm sure that's due to how you run the company”

He edged a little closer saying “I'm glad that your years working here have been good but I must confess to a desire to get to know you better” I bit my lip at the look in his eyes

“I’m not sure that would be such a good idea , I mean would we even be compatible?” I squeaked then cleared my throat embarrassed. He laughed a little even as his eyes deepened to a dark purple “oh yes” he purred “we are definitely compatible” I stared into his eyes mesmerized, a distant voice saying maybe this idea wasn't so great, but boy would it be fun.

A knock came at the door, interrupting the moment and I heard his secretary say “Mr. Kapena? I have your lunch here”  Giving me one last look, he got up and moved towards the door. I took a deep breath and fanned myself a little, phew I wasn't sure but I think Shaye may have been right, I think Kale was flirting with me.

“Is something wrong?” He asked as he stepped forward with the take out bags and began to unload everything onto the coffee table.

I had never been one of those girls to say no when it was really yes so I answered him honestly “Yes...a little..I mean that was a little intense, are you flirting with me?” He laughed “If you have to ask I must not be doing it right” I blushed and looked down at the containers he had unpacked, surprised to see the name of a well known italian restaurant famous for their seasoned meatball special. He seemed to be lost in thought as he handed me a container and a set of cutlery. “Does it bother you? Me flirting with you? You're a very attractive woman, smart and funny…”

I held up my hand to stop him “It's not a confidence issue, I mean this face combined with this personality and body” I tossed my hair over my shoulder and winked “who wouldn't want me?” He laughed again at that, shaking his head as he took a seat across from me with his own plate of food.

“Seriously though it's just that it's difficult enough to start anything with a regular human man, I mean not only are you my boss but your a selkrian!” He nodded “I understand your hesitation and let me assure you your position will be entirely secure and under no threat. I don't want to pressure you but I'm not going to give up that easily. How about we go to dinner tonight? And we see how it goes?”

I sighed and said “can I think about it? And let you know before the end of work today?” “Only if we can exchange numbers”  he said persistently. I laughed “Sure”.

I opened up the container and immediately became distracted, mmmm the meatball special, a whole plate of cheesy meaty goodness. I mentally rubbed my hands together and took my fork out, quickly cutting up some of the pasta and meatballs and adding it to my fork. I groaned softly as the flavors exploded on my mouth, I glanced up and noticed that he was watching me his eyes dark again. I coughed and quickly set my fork down, my cheeks flushing in embarrassment. I have always enjoyed food and this was one of my favorite meals. He smiled slowly and I felt my breath hitch oh boy I may have bitten off more than I could chew.



Kale

I was glad to have spent this time with Mia. She certainly was an asset to the company and seemed to genuinely care about improving our public image. She saw something that we could do as a company that would go a long ways towards showing Humans that they have nothing to fear from us and came up with a plan to implement it. While talking with her about the internship and throughout our lunch together, I discovered she was smart, confident and wasn't afraid to speak her mind. I was anxious to start our date tonight, since a thought had occurred to me while we were talking. Every Selkrian has a Ke Ola, which for Humans would be the same as a soulmate. We believed deeply in them and spent our lives searching for the one person that would complete us.

For some they knew instantly upon meeting the one meant for them, others it was just a feeling an instinct that awaken when we meet a potential match. For those they knew for sure they had met their Ke Ola when they slept with them for the first time. An uncontrollable urge to mark them on the three major pulse points... neck, groin, inner thigh…. would rise up until the claiming was complete. A bond would instantly snap in place allowing the bonded pair to communicate mentally and their lifespans to extend and match each others.

While I was feeling my instinct surge towards Mia, I needed to know for sure and we were off to a good start. I could tell she was interested in me but wanted to be cautious. I could understand that caution but nothing I was feeling was casual and I was determined to have her give this a chance. I pulled out my phone and quickly dialed my one of my favorite restaurants.

“ Hello, this is Kale Kapena. May I please speak with Marco?”  I requested when the hostess answered.

“Certainly Mr.Kapena, hold one moment please”

I waited patiently while jazz music played in my ear, I had been staying in New Orleans during the jazz age and had fond memories of that time. The beignets, the dancing, the clothes, the 1920’s was truly my favorite human era.

“Hey Kale good to hear from you buddy, what can i do you for?” Marco greeted me

“ Im taking a very special lady out for dinner tonight and wanted to see if you have something that will really knock her socks off”

He chuckled “ Of course, I have just the thing, private room, specialized menu, private entertainment...the works. What time can I expect you?”

“ Let’s say 8, now all I have to do is get her to say yes”

He laughed again “ Well I have complete faith in your abilities, we’ll see you then”

I hung up and smiled to myself before going to place another call, looks like it was time to turn up the heat.

 

 

End Notes:

Next chapter will be out on saturday! Stay tuned!

Chapter 4 by Gabriella Clark

4

As I rode the elevator back down to my floor, I pulled out my phone and texted Shaye quickly. Soooo..don't get a big head over this..but you were right  my phone beeped with a return message as I stepped out the elevator head's already swelling! Give me the tea!

We had lunch together at his office and he was definitely flirting with me. He asked me to dinner tonight….

Please tell me you said yes!

Weelllll I told him I'd let him know before I left the office…

Mia! Don't worry I’ll let you know! tell him yes! what could it hurt?

I thought about that as I sat in my office chair,staring blankly at the wall. Mixing business with pleasure never ended well but I'd never heard of any hint of scandal attached to Kale and he'd been completely respectful in his office. Besides there was something…..intriguing… about him, and I had never felt such a urge to get to know a person better before. I was usually slow to develop an interest in someone, Im naturally hesitant to form bonds and I must admit..a bit of a pessimist… but there was just something about him, I had to know more.

Alright I texted Shaye back I'll go but if I get beamed up to the mothership I'm blaming you!  I smiled at the laughing alien emoji she sent back and took a deep breath. Just as I started the message a knock came at my half closed door. I looked up in surprised at the delivery man standing there. “ Yes, may I help you” I asked confused, he was holding what looked like a vase with a dozen roses and a clipboard.

“Yes I have a delivery here for Mia Johnson” he said walking forward

“ That’s me” I said standing up hoping I didn't look as confused as I felt. Who could have sent me flowers though? It wasn't my birthday and I couldn't think of anything special I’d done lately that would warrant someone sending me gifts.

“These are for you” he said setting the vase down on my desk before handing me the clipboard and indicating where I should sign at. I signed my name and murmured a thank you as he left, looking over the vase for a card. The flowers were a beautiful blush pink  with sprigs of baby breath throughout the bouquet.  Nestled in with the flowers I found and opened the star shaped card. With as awesome as you are, how could I not? I laughed out loud, glad he got the joke. Sometimes when I say that to people they think I'm full of myself but I'm not. In such an appearance conscious society, it took me awhile to be fully comfortable with my body and hey if I don't toot my own horn who will?

Hey thanks so much for the roses, they're beautiful! I you're still interested I would love to go out with you tonight. I texted him,  who was I kidding? I did want to go out with him and he had finished winning me over with the flowers.

Of course I am he texted back quickly and your most welcome. May I pick you up around 7:45? We have reservations for 8pm.

Sure that sounds great any dress code requirements?

Feel free to pull out all the stops, i know I will be. I smirked, challenge accepted already mentally reviewing what was in my closet.

My address is 1312 crescent ave, see you then. I put my phone down and got to work, I needed to leave a little early today to get my mission accomplished.   


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I grinned at my reflection in the mirror pleased with my work, I looked amazing if I did say so myself. My hair fell around my shoulders in thick spiral curls, while I had brought some forward to create a bang. My makeup was dark and smoky, with an eggplant colored eyeshadow as a nod to my date’s eyes and dark eyeliner. My lips were painted a rich rose to match my pedicure and strappy peep toe heels. My black dress had a tiered skirt that swished gently around my knees while the cold shoulder top half added a extra edge. .

I turned and looked at myself sideways in the mirror nodding to myself, thinking not bad, not bad at all! I laughed a little and reached for my clutch  just as the doorbell rang. Shoot, I grumbled as I grabbed it and moved towards the front of my house. “Coming” I called walking down the hallway quickly.  I stepped up to the door, took a breath and unlocked it.

“Good even..” Kale started with a smile but trailed off as he took me in. I smiled and held my hands out to my sides and turned slowly in a circle. I smirked as I heard a slight groan and considered my mission to be accomplished. I turned back around and ran my eyes slowly down his body. Wow I thought he had certainly dressed to impress too. He had on a red button up shirt with the first 2 buttons undone offering a glimpse of a tanned throat, black slacks and boots His hair was swept back from his face, highlighting his strong jaw and vivid eyes.

Wait one second “Hold on” I eyed him suspiciously “how are we matching? were you peeking in my window? I thought I felt someone watching me earlier”I said jokingly.

He laughed “No it wasn't me this is just a happy coincidence, although…” He looked me over again and licked his lips “If I'd known this would be the results of my message I definitely would have taken a peek. You look amazing.”  I blushed and murmured a thank you as I stepped outside, closing and locking the door behind me. Turning back around I smiled at him as we started down my cobbled walkway, towards a low sports car that looked as though it was leaving others cars in its dust even though it was standing still.

“So where are we going tonight?” I asked as he held open the car door for me. He winked and said “It’s a surprise” and gently closed the door. I'm not going to lie, I checked out the back view as he walked around the front of the car and it looked just as good as the front. He got in and pressed start “How did the rest of your day go?”

I looked across at him “Same old same old, finished up some paperwork I was working on so that on Monday I can devote some time to getting the internship fine tuned”

He nodded “Sounds good, I spoke with my brother today and he was excited to hear about it. I think we should start with Autonomous first, he already has a program going that the intern can take part in ., your home looked nice by the way, very cheerful”

I looked at him surprised “ That’s Luc right? The COO? I saw you shared last names but didn't realize you were so closely related”

He smiled briefly “ Yes he’s my younger brother, although there were times when I didn't like claiming him as such” he grimaced briefly “ He was a bit….mischievous… when he was younger”

I laughed “ I’m an only child myself but it’s always nice to hear about big families. You guys must have had fun together”

“As I look back on it yes, we got into a lot of scrapes together and ran our parents a bit ragged in our younger years I must admit .” He looked my way and added “ Your house looks nice by the way, very cozy”.

I smiled thinking about the bright blue paint, red door and small porch of my home. I had decorated the cobblestone walkway with rows of wild violets on the side and there were a couple of trees at the beginning of the yard. “Thank you, it's the house I grew up in, my parents left it to me when they passed”

“Oh I'm so sorry for your loss” He looked saddened “It's just my brother and I as well”

“Thank you it was about 5 years ago but I still miss them, I wish I had siblings, unfortunately my mom couldn't have any more kids after me.”

He wryly shook his head “Sometimes I wish the same had been true with my parents, Luc can truly try my patience at times. I think he gets great joy from doing it.”

I laughed “That's probably true, it's nice to know annoying younger siblings are all over the universe.” He laughed with me as we pulled up to O’Shays, a very high class restaurant I had only ever heard about and never been to. I thanked the valet as he helped me out of the car, taking Kale’s arm as he came to a stop next to me. I took in the marble flooring and high arched ceilings as we walked up to the hostess desk, impressed by the elegant armchairs and the obvious quality of the paintings on the walls.

“Mr Kapena! Good evening so happy you and your date could join us. Please right this way” the hostess said coming out from around the desk and leading us down a hallway to a set of double doors. My eyebrows rose as I took in the single table set up in the middle of the room. Off to the left was a grand piano that the young man seated at its bench immediately began to play. Candlelight set in various sconces around the room gave off a pleasant aroma and set an intimate mood.

I thanked Kale as he pulled out my chair, taking a seat and leaning back as the hostess placed a napkin in my lap. I waited until she handed us the menus and left before leaning in and whispering “Show off.” Kale grinned and winked at me as a waiter stepped up to the table, telling us about that night's special and the wine paired with it. We agreed and he took the menus moving away and coming back quickly with our drinks. He poured us both a glass and I gave a little hum as i sipped, it was crisp and fruity.

“So” Kale said nodding at the waiter and setting down his glass “Tell me about yourself” I put my chin in my hand and batted my eyelashes “Well I'm a Virgo and I love long walks on the beach, puppies and rainbows….”

He laughed and asked “Are you always like this?”

I shrugged, grinning “Pretty much I mean in high school I was much quieter and kept to myself. The typical bookworm, glasses, bad clothes and all.”

He cocked his head to the side “So what made you change?”

I paused,thinking back and said “Well I was pretty miserable. I let people walk all over me and never spoke up for myself. Then one day in college I was just like f this, why make myself miserable so my so called friends can be happy? From now on I'm doing what makes me happy.”

He nodded “I think that's best, in life you can only do what feels right and go from there”

“Exactly” I said leaning back as the waiter placed a plate with 3 small crabcakes in a row drizzled with a remoulade sauce in front of me. I picked up my fork and cut into one, I loved crab cakes and these looked delicious.

“This is the best thing about this planet” Kale said cutting into his as well “The food here is just fantastic. I remember the first time I had chocolate, I thought now this was worth coming here.”

“Did it take very long to get here?” I asked curious.

“Well” he replied “It would roughly be about 2 years in your time. But we spend most of that in cryo to reserve resources”

I shivered “ Imagine going to sleep and when you wake up two years have passed. That's a little odd. I don't know how I would feel about it”

“Well “ he said slowly “ I guess you could say that, we are just use to it though especially on the really long voyages. Some people can get a little stir crazy, so not only does it help cut down on crew mishaps but its great for preserving the ship’s resources”

I nodded “Makes sense, do you miss your world a lot?” He stared off to the side “Some moments more than others” he looked back at me and smiled “But my people are travelers for the most part and charting the galaxy and helping where we can is part of our culture”

We paused as the waiter switched out our plates for the main course of wild mushroom hand pulled noodles and stir fried lobster with garlic, scallions and onions. We were silent a few minutes, the silence easy as we ate, giving the food the attention that it deserved.

“If this is how you eat all the time I need to hang with you more often. This is fantastic” I said sitting back and taking a sip of wine. “I can't say it’s often but I definitely wanted to impress you, although” His voice deepened “I would like to see you more” I sighed and placed my napkin on the plate , I hadn't lied the meal was good but I needed to get to the button of this “ What are we doing here Kale?” I asked seriously “Like I said before it doesn't bother me that you are a selkrian but it does bother me that you're my boss, I don't want to get in over my head”

He looked at me consideringly “I like you Mia, I want to get to know you, I want to see where this can go.You never have to worry about your position being in danger from this and that's the truth. All I'm asking is that you give this a chance” I thought about it as the waiter cleared our plates and we declined dessert. I was still unsure about how this would end but i decided to give him the benefit of doubt. I did feel something for him and whether or not it was just desire was something I wanted to find out.

He stood from the table and held out his hand to me “May I have this dance?” he asked. I blushed a little hoping I wouldn't step on his feet, and taking his hand I rose from my seat. He led me over to stand in front of the piano, and drawing me close he wrapped his right arm around my waist and held my right hand in his left. He held my eyes with his as we started swaying to the music  “The first time I saw you” he said “I was speechless, I thought to myself how could I have not known she was here? Right under my nose? And I promised myself I would do all I could to get to know you” I looked away feeling shy and a little unsure, I mean what could I say to that?

“What if you don't like what you find?” I asked.

“Impossible” he whispered drawing me closer so my front pressed against his “I can only see myself getting hopelessly lost in you….and enjoying it” I laid my head on his chest and closed my eyes, resolved to enjoy this for as long as it lasted.


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As we walked up my driveway to the house I thought back over the evening, from the restaurant, to the food, and especially the company I knew that this was the best date I’d ever had. We paused as we came to my door and I turned around to face him. I held my breath as he dropped his eyes to my mouth. I licked my lips as he came close enough I could feel his warm breath on my face. I tilted my head back and met his lips with my own as he gently kissed me. His lips were firm and smooth and I could feel one of his arms come around to hold me across my waist. His other hand came up to cradle my cheek as he swiped his tongue over my bottom lip, requesting entry.

His taste… It was like I had just had a sip of champagne, light and bubbly over my tongue. I moaned as I kissed him back, I had never felt anything like it. As I rubbed my tongue along his I paused, disconcerted what was that? His tongue felt...ridged. It was slick with slightly raised bumps going down the middle in 2 rows.Oh boy I thought I know where that will feel great! His hand slid around to the back of my head as one kiss turned to two and got deeper, hotter. My arms were around his neck, hands buried in his hair when I heard the neighbor’s dog start to bark.

We pulled apart slowly, staring into each other's eyes, his a brilliant shade of violet bright enough to see by. I gasped softly shocked as his hand moved back around and his thumb rubbed my bottom lip slowly. “I’ll call you tomorrow” he said huskily eyes still locked with mine. I nodded speechless as he took my keys from my hand and unlocked my door for me. He waited outside until I had closed and locked the door. I stood with my head pressed to the wood and listened to his car drive away, ooh boy  I thought as I turned around and went to get ready for bed.

Kale

I’d had a wonderful time out with Mia tonight and couldn’t wait to do it again. I hadn’t realized she would be so skittish though as  she projected this tough over confident shell. It was a surprise to discover such vulnerability hiding underneath I smiled to myself thinking back to when she suggested i may not like what I found out when I got to know her. How she could think that I didn't know when everything I've found out so far was just drawing me even more under her spell. My smile faded as a new thought occured to me, being the Lakai of such a large hale came with some difficulties. As such a prominent figure I was not only under more scrutiny with my hale but with the human population as well, but that wasn't what was troubling me.

On our home world there existed two types of sentient creatures that inhabited two different sides of our planet. My people named themselves for the planet that nourishes us hence the name Selkrian. Our planet has 2 suns one of which is much larger than the other and one large moon. The suns are positioned on different sides of the planet. On our side we have the larger sun which resulted in us having a longer day and shorter night. We also have a very short winter and a very longer summer. Our seas are quite turbulent and water travel is limited. On the other side though things are quite different and as a result the beings that live on that side are different as well. They are called the Noctis, night dewellers, because since they have the smaller sun and the moon is mainly positioned on their side of the planet, their nights are longer.

Not only are the nights longer but the sunlight they do get is very weak. As such they evolved differently and have certain...needs...and customs that are different then my people. We have been mortal enemies locked in a feud for so long that few remember what first sparked it. Some elders claimed it was due to the noctis being jealous of our seemingly endless summer and our fertile land, since very little grew on their side of the planet.

They said that the noctis attacked us first in an attempt to gain access to and rule our lands for themselves. As the lakai I knew there was a grain of truth to the rumours as the lakai before me had passed along the same story, but privately I thought there had to be more to it. The Noctis natural environment was darkness, their side of the planet rarely received natural sunlight and what they did receive was faint never bright. As a result they had evolved with an intolerance to sunlight that varies with individuals, from mild discomfort to excruciating pain. Rumor had it that the ruling clan of Noctis the Ager’s, would burst into flames if exposed for too long. So why would they be so eager to take over our side when they would be in constant pain? I have never searched the archives though to read the history since as soon as I had assumed leadership we were consumed with making plans for this journey and I have not returned to Selk since I arrived here.

 

This was an issue for mine and Mia's relationship though. If she did indeed accept me and agree to be my Ke’Ola and the hale’s Pilia, then she would become a target for the Noctis. Throughout our history various Pilia’s have been targeted to strike a blow to the lakai they were bonded to.  Not all Pilia’s and Lakai’s were fated mates, but it seemed that those who were were the favored targets of the Noctis. My brow furrowed worriedly, We had seen in the early years of arriving on this planet, sightings of the Noctis but nothing in recent years. This planet with its bright sunlight was not a comfortable environment for them. However I would need to tighten the patrols and inform my hale mates to be on the lookout for any sightings. My mind drifted back to all that had happened earlier in the evening again and I drew in a deep breath....that kiss..Gods..that kiss, it had made my instinct surge stronger than before. I’d found her, My Ke’ Ola.


Chapter 5 by Gabriella Clark
Author's Notes:

This chapter is along one so I will be posting it in 2 parts.

5


I texted Shaye that morning as I got up needing a little advice on where to go from here with Kale. The date had been perfect but this seemed a little too good to be true. Everything was moving too fast and truth be told I was a little scared about the strength of my feelings for him. I’d spent all night going over the date and my interactions with him and needed another opinion. Some people had a angel and a devil on their shoulders trying to guide their actions. In this situation I feared I had a cat lady determined to be cynical and alone and on the other shoulder ...a big ol ho.

I know u up I wrote.

Unfortunately I know I'm up too, how did last night go?

Amazing, we had a private room at o’shays. There was a piano player, lobster and we danced. The BEST kiss of my life, Best date i’ve ever been on to be honest...

That’s awesome….so what's the problem? I bet you're overthinking again I smirked, my bestie knows me so well.

Well it seems a little too good to be true, Mr. rich alien hotness wants me and he’s also my boss....who’s romance novel did I land in?

She sent several laughing emoji’s to me I don't know but tell them to write me a story too!

Things like this don't happen to me.

Well isn't it time that it did? You're always encouraging me to go for what I want and to not miss my moments. Well now I'm telling you DO NOT MISS YOUR MOMENT. Maybe it'll be a quick fling with some great food and hopefully awesome sex, maybe he will be the love of your life. Who knows? But you won't if you don't at least try.

I paused in brushing my teeth as I reread that message. I could feel the words resonating within me, she was right. I couldn't predict what the future would bring but I knew I could miss something amazing if I let this pass me by. You're really gonna get a fat head now aren't you? I texted her smiling.

Darn skippy she wrote back quickly speaking of sex make sure you pass along ALL the details, I've been dying of curiosity to know if their any different down there

Shameless I texted her back shaking my head at her antics.

You know it! now invite him over for breakfast and go with the flow for once!

I nodded to my reflection in the mirror and decided to do exactly as I was told.

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“Good Morning” I said as I opened my door and invited Kale inside. He smiled and stepped in, closing the door behind him “Good Morning to you as well” he stepped closer “I hope you don't mind” I tilted my head confused “Mind what?” He slipped his arm around my waist pulling me against his chest. “This” he lowered his mouth to mine kissing me deeply. I felt the breath catch in the back of my throat and put my arms around his neck, kissing him back. I couldn't get over his taste still as bubbly as last night, still as good. I was getting used to his tongue and couldn't help the naughty thoughts I was having about it. I pulled back and bit my lip, feeling a bit dazed, “ Well hello to you too” I said huskily “Is that a standard greeting amongst your people?”

He looked at my lips and murmured “ No. but I may make it a new custom”He let me go reluctantly and let his gaze sweep me from head to toe, taking in my hair up in a messy bun, to my peach summer dress and bare feet. “You look wonderful” I smiled and looked him over as well, he was wearing a pair of faded jeans paired with a blue henley and brown boots. “ Thank you” I said over my shoulder as I led him to my breakfast nook, where I had food already laid out on the table “You look nice too”. He held my chair out for me and once I was seated rounded the table to take his own. He looked at what I had cooked and frowned a little looking confused.

“I'm sorry” he began “I don't mean any offense but I don't recognize some of these dishes” I chuckled at the apologetic look on his face “That's ok, these are cheesy grits” I said pointing at each dish in turn ‘“these are scrambled eggs of course, there's also some toast with jam and butter and this” I gestured at the last bowl “is corned beef hash cooked crispy, my all time favorite breakfast meat”

“I've never had corned beef hash or grits before.What is in it?”

“Well corned beef hash is basically diced potatoes and corned beef which is a type of meat that comes from a cow” I said tapping the rim of the bowl “ and grits are…..hmmmm...you know I never really thought about what grits are. Just trust me they're pretty good”

“Would you mind if I sample at first?” I picked up his plate and begin to dish up the food “No problem” I made sure to just put a spoonful of both the grits and corned beef hash and then handed the plate to him. I busied myself making my own plate not wanting him to feel self conscious as he tried the unfamiliar dish. I started eating, taking a few bites before looking up. I held back a smile as I noticed him adding more of both to his plate. He looked up at me and said sheepishly “ You were right. It's really good”

“Great I'm glad you like it” We ate quietly for a few minutes and I was struck again at how easy it was. Most of the time with new people silences were awkward with people rushing to fill it in. Or conversations were stilted with me casting around for something to say. I don't know what it was about Kale but everything was just clicking into place.

“ So” I began mischievously “ Did you know your name is the same as a vegetable?” He rolled his eyes before saying dryly “ Really? Is this what we're doing now Ms. Jones?” I burst into peals of laughter, out of everything I thought he would have said, that was definitely not on my list.

He smiled at me “ I know what kale is here on earth, but on my planet Kale means strong. My parents named me that as that is what they wished for me to become”

I heaved a sigh, boy that laugh was just what I had needed releasing the tension I hadn't known I was carrying “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean any offense. I was just thinking about it and had to say it.”

“No offense taken, don’t worry about it.” We continued to eat, finishing the last few bites we had left on our plates.

“Do you have any plans for today?” He asked after taking a sip of his orange juice.

“Well” I said slowly thinking “not really...nothing terribly important anyways maybe run a few errands and typical saturday adult type chores”

“How would you like to spend the day with me? In truth I would like you to spend the entire weekend with me but I'll start small”

“And what would we be doing Mr. Kapena if I spent the weekend with you?” I said flirtatiously.

“I would love to take you on a little trip..nothing to far maybe down to the beach. We can stay at one of the hotels on the strip, picnic on the beach maybe see a show…” he said enticingly.

“Hmmmm that does sound good” I said considering it, the beach wasn't really far maybe a hour trip from where we were in the city. I could always leave if things got weird or any probes happened to come out. I nodding my head “Ok let's do it. One condition though”

“And what's that?”

I grinned “You help with the dishes” I said waving my hand above the empty plates and bowls on the table. He laughed “You drive a hard bargain but you have a deal”

We stacked the dirty dishes together and took everything in one trip into my kitchen. It had an open floor plan with hardwood floors and granite countertops that curved around before ending in a bar. There was an island standing in the middle with the breakfast nook we had just been sitting in on the right. I motioned him to set everything down in one side of the divided sink and half filled it with hot soapy water. “Ok so I'll wash and you can rinse and put in the drainer” I said getting to work. He nodded stepping up beside me and taking the dishes I handed him.

“So how's the food on your planet? You mentioned last night that you thought earth food was better”

“Our food isn't bad it's just….tasteless compared to yours. Of all the vegetation that grows on our planet not many could be used as seasonings. And we have nothing like chocolate.”

I shook my head teasingly “ You poor poor Selkrians. Living without chocolate? That must be why your people are travelers, they were searching for their first candy bar!”

He laughed out loud at that “You may be right there” he said rinsing the dish he held and placing it in the drainer. He looked at me curiously before saying “ I must confess i am surprised that you are unattached. After I first saw you I was prepared to face a number of challengers to win some time to spend with you”

I chuckled slightly “ Nah, I haven't been accepting any contenders for awhile now. There was just so much going on, I lightly dated while in college but then I was busy with establishing a career and when you guys revealed yourselves….. It just never seemed to be a good time for anything serious”  I handed him a towel as I used another to dry my hands “What about you? Do you guys have dating or marriage like we do?”

“We do both. Unattached males will court the female of their liking to see if their may be a match there. Most of us wait for what you would call our soulmate while others make pairings based on other reasons”

I nodded and tossed my towel back over the edge of the sink “ All right let me get a overnight bag packed and we can hit the road”  He nodded and held up his phone “I'll go ahead and make the arrangements” I turned to go to my room but paused as he placed a hand on my arm.

“Before I let you go…” he cupped my face and gave me a sweet kiss that quickly turned heated as I ran my hands up his muscled chest. He groaned pulling me closer and moved his hands to grasp me around my waist. He dug his fingers in lightly and slanted his mouth against mine, deepening the kiss. His tongue swept inside my mouth as he turned and lifted me up to sit on the island behind us as I tilted my head giving him greater access to my mouth. He stepped in between my legs, bringing his lower body up close and personal with mines.

I could feel my breath hitch as I felt the heat he was packing behind his zipper. He ran one hand up my side stopping with his hand spread under my breast, the bottom curve resting against the space between his thumb and forefinger.  I moaned as he brushed his thumb along the side of my breast, wishing he would cup it completely. He slowly ground against me and I pulled away to gasp. I clutched his shoulders as he kissed down my throat, his thumb still drawing maddening circles closer and closer to my nipple.

“Wait” I panted pushing away slightly “The trip…” I took a few deep breaths in an attempt at calming down. He leaned his forehead against mine and we shared breaths for a few moments as our heartbeats slowed down. He rubbed his hands up and down my arms in a brief caress before pulling away and smiling down at me ruefully “Sorry” he said helping me down from the island “ I got a little carried away”. He held up his phone again “ I’ll just go make that call” and hurriedly left the kitchen. I fanned myself as I heard the front door close a few moments later. I walked into the hallway and pulled out one of the carry on bags I used when I had to catch a flight from the hall closet. I continued down the hallway to my bedroom and opened the bag up on my bed. I tapped my chin as I thought this is saturday morning, we’ll get there around afternoon and wont depart till sometime sunday. I wouldn't need that many changes of clothes, a swim suit for sure and pj’s, a couple of casual outfits and a nice dress just in case he decided to take me somewhere fancy for dinner tonight,  should be all I need.

I started gathering up my choices and folding them into my bag. I was headed into my en suite to grab my toothbrush and hair supplies, when I heard my front door open and close again. “ I’m almost done, just a moment” I called and hurriedly pack the last of my items.

“No rush”

I zipped up my bag and took one last look around to make sure I wasn't leaving anything before leaving my room and moving towards my living room where I assumed he would be. As I stepped into the room, he rose frose from the couch and walked towards me. “ All set?” he asked as he reached out a hand and took my carry on from me. I smiled up at him “ Yep, let’s hit the road.”

 

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End Notes:

stay tuned for the othe half!

Chapter 5.5 by Gabriella Clark
Author's Notes:

This is the rest of chapter 5 as promised! warning!!!!! Things are about to get spicy!!!

We pulled up to the valet station located in front of the hotel, the valet walked up and opened the door for me. After getting out of the car I turned to look at my surroundings. I have been to the beach before but it had been awhile since i’d gone, but everything looked pretty much the same. The strip, the different hotels, restaurants, stores and nightclubs covering every inch of available space. I looked to the left and saw that he had chosen a hotel that was about 10 steps from the sandy shore.

Palm trees were dotted here and there and the ocean stretched on forever under a beautiful blue sky. I looked up at Kale as he came to stand next to me and smiled “ What a lovely view.” He looked down at me as we began to walk up the cobbled pathway to the door of the hotel. “ It sure is” he replied but was still  looking down at me. I blushed in response and mumbled a thank you to the doorman as he held the door open for us. I hadn't changed out of the summer dress I had on during breakfast but I had wrestled my hair into a sleek ponytail while we were waiting for Kale’s personal assistant to drop off his overnight bag. I had also added some mascara and a tinted lip balm, some bangles and a pair of earrings to give myself a more put together look.But from his response, im guessing the extra effort I put was appreciated.

Check in went by in a whirlwind and it looked as if not only had they been expecting him but were thrilled to have him stay there. The benefits of being a millionaire I guess. Before I knew it we were upstairs in a penthouse and I was surrounded by tasteful art on the walls, marble flooring, and a soft looking dove gray sectional peeking at me from the entry way where I stood facing a huge flat screen tv. A bank of windows covered the entirety of the wall stretching from the dining room that was situated on the left all the way to the right where the living room ended. To my immediate left was the opening for an open floor plan kitchen that featured gleaming appliances and a bar facing the dining room.I moved further into the room, making way for Kale to come in behind me and set our bags down on the sofa.

“I hope you don't think me too presumptuous” he began looking at me apologetically “ But since our reservation was last minute, this was the last room available. The hotel is quite busy with the summer tourist coming in for the beach.”

I shrugged and moved next to the window to take in the view, we were on the very top floor and it was breathtaking “ Sure that's fine” I didn't really know what he was trying to apologize for.

He looked at me for a moment before saying“What i’m trying to say is...There’s only one bed”

oh...OH! I laughed “ It’s ok kale. We're both adults I’m sure we can survive for one night.” I grabbed my bag from his hand and started moving towards the bedroom door. “I hope you dont snore” I tossed teasingly over my shoulders.

He followed behind me looking affronted “ I do not snore. Such is unbefitting of a Lakai” he informed me loftily.

I snorted as I set my carry on down on the little luggage rack set up in front of the closet door and opened it, digging around for my swimsuit. I couldn't wait to get in the water, I was totally counting this is a mini vacay. I found what I needed and turned towards the ensuite. “ I’m going to hit the water, it’s too nice outside to pass up. You coming with?”

“Of course” he said eyes gleaming “ I wouldn't miss it” he winked at me and turning towards his bag, opened it to retrieve his swim trunks. I shook my head and shut the bathroom door behind me. Once inside I set my swimsuit down and took a deep breath alright mia you can so totally do this, I mean who cares I haven't worn a swimsuit in about 2 years? Who cares that Shaye had bought me this one when we had planned a vacation that had never happened? Who cares that I loved sweets and they loved me back? I kept in reasonable shape always making a point to exercise at least 3 times a week for a hour, I should be ok.

I must say I really didn't like the way my expression in the mirror looked at me with a yea right cringe.  I undressed quickly and put on the bikini Shaye had purchased me. I held up the top of the bikini and eye’d it distrustingly, it look like 2 triangles held up by strings. I shook my head and just put it on, praying to God it held up my d cups adequately, I hadn't really looked at what she had bought me and then when I was packing I had rushed and grabbed the first thing my hands fell on.

I turned from side to side looking at myself in the mirror, making sure I didn't have any side boob peeking out.  Not bad...not bad at all I thought to myself. Pleased with what I was seeing , I put on the bottoms and tighten my ponytail. I headed back out the room and gave a long loud whistle at the sight in front of me. Kale had changed into his swim trunks and he was a sight to see. Wide muscled shoulders with firm pectorals led down to a 6 pack and a narrow waist. He had that coveted v thingie I could never remember the name to pointing down to the mysteries hid by his trunks. His upper body was completely hairless even his arms and legs, which made me wonder if he had any around his cock. I looked up and blushed at the smirk he had and just shrugged “ Hey you put it out there” I said teasingly “ I’m just appreciating the view”

He laughed and walked toward me, handing me one of the beach towels he must have had brought up while I was changing. “ No problem” His eyes swept me from head lingeringly “You look fantastic although I must insist you walk beside me”

I took the towel from him and moved towards the door asking over my shoulder “Why do you say that?” I heard a groan behind me and turned around while I wrapped the towel around my waist and tucked it in. He had a dazed look in his eyes and I started, suddenly remembering that I had on a bikini and had plenty junk in the trunk as my mom used to call it. I winced apologetically at him “ Sorry”

He just shook his head as he came up beside me and took my hand in is. “At least I have my will already filled out” I burst out laughing as he held the door open for me and we headed down to the beach.


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I lounged on the beach some time later, luxuriating in the feel of the warm rays of the sun bathing my skin. Kale had grabbed a beach umbrella from a stand set up by the pool and had planted it down in the sand by my head. We had had to walk a little ways down but had finally came across a semi private little cove that the hotel concierge had told us about. It had been worth it though, while there was some people here when we arrived, they were mostly gone now. To get lunch I assumed and while I was hungry i had wanted to soak up a little more sun first. I opened my eyes slowly when I felt drops of water land on my stomach and looked up at kale as he dropped down next to me on his towel. He lay on his side with his head propped up by his arm and smiled at me when he noticed I was gazing at him.

I offered him a smile in return and said “ Hey. Having fun?”

“Oh yes, It’s been awhile since I’ve come but I’ve always loved the beach.” I watched as his eyes roved down my body and slowly slid back up before locking on my lips. He inched closer to me until his chest pressed against my side. I licked my lips in response as his hand rose and he trailed his fingertips up the middle of my belly, through the valley between my breasts and along my jaw until he cupped the side of my face. His eyes searched mine as he came in slowly before dropping to my lips as he dropped his head, before closing them fully as his lips met mine.  My eyes fluttered closed as well as he kissed me softly, sweetly. His hand held the side of my face gently. I sighed softly as he drew back and smiled down at me. Next thing I knew he scooped me up into his arms as he jumped to his feet. I threw my arms around his neck for support as he took off running towards the water.

Shrieking with laughter as the water splashed up around us I held on tightly as he waded out until the water came up to his waist. Gasping as a wave splashed me in my face I raised my hands to wipe the water from my eyes. I glared up at him and stuck out my tongue “ Your crazy!”

Grinning like a maniac he swung his arms from side to side and I realized to late that I had lost my grip on him. “YOU BETTER…” my words trailed off into a scream as he let me go, sending me sailing through the air to come down with a big splash. Sputtering I resurfaced and hurriedly scraped my hair back from off my face as I turned in a circle searching for him. My eyebrows scrunched in confusion, he had disappeared. Just as it occurred to me to look down I felt something slide up my calf. Shaking my leg I hopped away just as he surfaced , laughing at me.

“Your crazy” I accused again, trying my best not to laugh “ Just a crazy alien bringing me into his web of craziness!”

He laughed harder, moving towards me and holding my waist with one hand, used his other to finish smoothing my hair back from my face. “ I’m sorry, you just looked so relaxed...I had to draw you into my web of craziness” I could just hear the air quotes as he said it. I grinned evilly at him “ No problem sweetie” I said saccharine sweet, just before I hooked my leg around his and knocked him off his feet. The look on his face just as he hit the water? Priceless.

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How did I get myself into this? I thought to myself as Kale stalked closer to me, moving with predatory grace. I drew back until I was pressed up against one of the windows in our suite. I started panting feeling like I was just a little gazelle being cornered by a ravenous wolf. A pitiful image to be sure, but I couldn't help feeling like he wanted to devour me whole. His eyes had darkened to a brilliant amethyst and the look in them….I squeezed my thighs together in reaction. He came to a stop in front of me and slowly brought his arms up on either side of me, caging in my body. He looked me up and down. starting at my strappy red stilettos, moving up to the mile of leg bared by my thigh length dress. The front of the dress was very demure with a heart shaped bodice, but it was made from a clingy material that hugged my curves lovingly. The back though….there wasn’t any….my entire back was bared from my shoulders down to the very top curve of my ass, it was juuust this side of decent.

I was still riding high on the rush of power I had got when I first walked out of our room wearing it and his jaw had practically hit the floor when he realized how little there was in the back. All throughout the night from our dinner date to the club we had went to afterward for drinks, he had kept close to my side, his hand on the small of my back. I remembered him growling a few times that night when some men had gotten a little to obvious with their stares. They had looked up at him, blanched at whatever they saw in his eyes and hurriedly looked away. Dinner was divine and I’d had so much fun at the club, I hadn't known he could dance so well, it had been a blast. At least until the music slowly changed and switched to a low sultry beat made for close dancing. He had gathered me against his body as we swayed together. My breasts had constantly brushed against his chest and his fingers had traced patterns up and down my spine. He had teased me mercilessly by brushing kisses up and down my neck and nibbling gently on my ear lobe.

He had driven me into a fever pitch of desire by the time we left the club and began the drive back to the hotel. The drive back had been a little quiet but filled with tension since I had decided to get some revenge. I had laid my hand on his thigh and rubbed my hand up and down, getting close but never quite touching the bulge behind his zipper. By the time we got back to the hotel, he had rocketed out the car, tossed his keys to the valet and hustled me inside and to the elevator. He’d kissed me passionately once the doors had closed, pressing me into one corner of the elevator and grinding his lower half against mines. We’d drawn apart slowly as the elevator opened on our floor and calmly walked to our room. As soon as the door was closed behind me though, he’d turned to me with that look in his eyes and here we were now.

He came up close to my body until not a inch of space separated us and drew one arm down until he wrapped his hand around the outside of my thigh and drew it up, placing my knee at his hip. I let out a gasp as his lower body met mine and he aligned our groins together. He brought that same hand up along the outside of my thigh, drawing my dress up with it as it moved. “You knew exactly what you were doing when you wore this didn't you?” he said voice husky “ You knew this would drive me completely wild.”  

I laughed throatily and replied “ Maybe. What are you going to do about it?” He smirked at me and brought his head down to mine. He kissed me slowly as he brought his hand up to rest under my breast. He drew his thumb across the tip of my nipple, drawing circles before pinching it gently as our kiss got wetter, hotter, our tongues dueling for supremacy. I moaned into his mouth as he tugged on my nipple,twisting it between his fingers. He ground up into the crevice between my thighs as he took both hands and drew the top of my dress down until it pooled around my waist.

He cupped both of my breasts in his hands drawing back to let out a hiss before moving down my throat, placing open mouthed kisses there. He massaged them firmly as I panted in his ear. My breasts had always been sensitive and I didnt know if I wanted to get closer or move away from the sensations curling through my body. He seemed to sense this because he moved from my throat and pushed my breasts together, lavishing attention on my nipples with his tongue. The ridges there felt amazing as he dragged his tongue repeatedly across my nipples. He bit down gently while tugging on the other, “ fffuuccckkk” I gasped out feeling this close to orgasm from that alone.

He laughed darkly and took his mouth away as he came back to kiss me again. His hand went back to my thigh and he brought my dress up as he went searching underneath, finding the strap of my underwear and following it down to where his hips pressed against mine. He hesitated there murmuring “Is this ok?” I nodded and kissed his neck, reaching for the bottom of his shirt. He slid a finger under the edge of my thong, drawing his finger back and forth, caressing my skin slowly. I bit my bottom lip as I ran my hand up his chest, feeling the hard muscles of his abdomen rippling under my fingers.

He stared into my eyes as he slipped his knuckle under the edge of my thong. He ran that knuckle up and down my slit teasing me again and from the look in his eye he was enjoying this. So that's what we were doing huh I thought to myself and reached down towards his belt. He felt what I was doing and drew his hips back, murmuring “uh uh uh” I growled frustrated at having my prize taken from me. He drew my underwear down the leg that had fell from his hips as he stepped back, so that they were just hanging on to one leg.  He stepped back and I lifted my leg back to where it was. Placing his hand high on my thigh he went back to work, as he captured my lips with his. My breath caught in the back of my throat as I felt him part my folds with one finger and begin to rub circles around my clit. He began tugging on my nipple again with his free hand, driving me closer and closer to release.

I put my arms around his shoulders running my hands through his hair as I gave a short hop and brought my other leg up around his waist. He took that maddening finger and brought it down to my opening as his thumb took its place. He began to slide it in me easily since at this point I was embarrassingly wet and it sunk in all the way up to his knuckle. He thrust it back and forth as my hips followed the movement. I tore my mouth from his as I began to pant heavily, it was right there I just needed a little more. Again it was like he read my mind because on the next thrust he turned his hand and began a crooking motion with his finger, like he was telling someone to come here.That was all I needed, my head banged back against the wall as I let out a long moan. The orgasm crashed into me leaving me breathless in its wake.  

He slid his hand along my nape as I came down slowly, trying to catch my breath. That flew out the window as I caught the look in his eyes. He brought his head down to mine and kissed me softly. He nipped my bottom lip gently before dragging his tongue across the slight sting. He kissed me deeply while he took a firm hold of my bottom and lifted me away from the windows. He laid me back against the cool surface of the dining room table and slowly dropped to his knees.

He dragged his tongue slowly up my inner thigh and my back arched on a gasp, my hands clutching the sides of the table. I whimpered when I realized where he was headed. I would finally see if my suspicions were true about the ridges on his tongue. He caught my dress and pulled it down and off taking my thing on the way. He laughed a little as he caught sight of the little heart shaped hair on my mound, before grabbing my ankles and placing my heels on the edge of the table.

He glanced up at me from under his lashes. “I‘ve wanted to do this ever since I saw you in that dress” he murmured. He parted my folds and brought his face in close. Holding my eyes with his he opened his mouth and licked me from the bottom to the top. I moaned loudly and cupped my breasts as he did it again, this time adding a swirl at the top. My head fell back with a thunk as I felt him take my clit in his mouth and suck gently. Then I felt it “Oh Gggoooodddd” I groaned loudly as I felt the ridges on his tongue on either side of my clit.

My next moan ended in a sharp cry as he twisted his tongue to the side and I felt the ridges directly where I wanted them most. I dug my fingers into his hair and couldn't help riding his face as the pleasure became more and more intense. My cries got louder and louder until I climaxed while shouting his name. My hands fell weakly to my side as he licked me soothingly, bringing me back down from the heights he had driven me to. I lay there feeling boneless as with a final swipe he rose from between my legs licking his lips. His eyes were a dark purple,almost black as he lifted me up, holding me to him and heading towards the bedroom.

I wrapped my legs around his waist and held on for the ride. He walked quickly to and then through the room. After lowering me to the bed he stepped back and took off his pants and shoes. Pausing for a moment he let me look my fill, narrow masculine feet led up to tan muscular legs. I got to the juncture at his thighs and stared. “Hot damn” I breathed looking at what had to be nine inches of thick veiny cock that was pointing straight up.  The large mushroom head was flushed and weeping a light purple colored fluid.

I looked again confused feeling like there was something missing. “Dude “ I said pointing “where's your balls?”  He looked at me, shocked before laughing loudly, holding his stomach, his dick bouncing with the motion. I rolled my eyes and motioned him over “Come here chuckles” He laughed harder moving to lay next to me on the bed. Still smiling he held my waist and kissed me, quieting completely as we fell deeper into the kiss. I was really growing addicted to the way he kissed me, like he was savoring every moment.

I could feel myself growing slick as his hands roamed my body teasing and caressing me to a fever pitch. He rolled on top of me, stroking me between my legs until I was begging for release. “Kale” I moaned “oh god please..” He shuddered above me and reached down to the floor and into his pants pocket. Pulling out a condom he unwrapped it and quickly rolled it on. He moved forward slowly not stopping until he was seated all the way inside.

I moaned as my muscles stretched deliciously around his hard length,wrapping my legs around his waist. He halted, arms out straight, clenched fists pressed into the bed with his head bowed. I ran my hands up his back, biting my bottom lip at how good he felt inside me. He lifted his head and I gasped as I saw his eyes glowing a brilliant shade of violet. Holding my gaze with his he started to move, going slowly at first and then speeding up. Holy shit I thought unable to hold in my cries as I lifted my hips to meet his thrusts.

Leaning back he grabbed my legs and lifted both over one shoulder. I closed my eyes as this changed the angle of his thrusts. The spot he was now going over sending sharp spikes of pleasure through me. “No” He growled snapping his hips forward forcefully “look at me” My eyes shot open and I looked into his at the command in his voice. “Good girl” he crooned reaching down to play with one of my nipples. I held on to his biceps as the pleasure rose, unable to stop from digging my nails in, the eye contact almost more than I could bear.

I chanted his name my head going back eyes squeezing shut as I came hard. His hand moved down to clutch my hip as I clamped down on him. He thrust once, twice, three times before letting out a loud groan and pulling me in tight against him. He let my legs slip from his shoulder and chest heaving came down to lay heavily on top of me. He kissed the side of my neck and buried his face in my hair.I ran my hands tiredly up and down his back as we lay there and I let myself drift off to sleep.

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I came to slowly sometime later feeling deliciously sore, it had been ….sheesh...let's just say awhile since I'd had sex and my body was letting me know how it felt about that. Although considering last night I might as well had been a virgin. I giggled to myself at the thought and the arm wrapped around my waist tightened. Kale’s husky voice emerged from over my shoulder “what's so funny?”

“I am...are all Selkrians built like you? And as uh talented? If so our men may try to kick you off the planet but don't worry the women will definitely stop them”

I could feel his smile against my neck and his hand drifted up to take hold of my breast. Slowly plucking and rubbing my nipple he said “I'm not sure about the others, I just know once I saw these pretty nipples I was feeling inspired”. I blushed glad he was behind me and didn't see. As my nipple came to a hard point I couldn't help moaning, pushing my bottom back into the hardness i could feel poking me from behind.

He ground against me while his other hand trailed down to rest between my thighs. Lifting my leg he started teasing me, rubbing two fingers in the space around my clit. I groaned frustrated and demanded “Stop teasing me!” He chuckled and said “in due time...I need to ask you something first”. I sucked in my breath tossing my head back a he pushed one finger in me and started moving it back and forth.

“I wore a condom last night because I didn't know if you knew that Selkrians don't carry diseases. I wanted you so much I couldn't stop to have that conversation just then.”

I panted pushing down onto that maddening finger and asked “ mmmm what about..ahhh...pregnancy?”  I lifted my leg higher as he sped up, between that and his hand at my breast pinching my nipple I was about to explode. “We can completely control our procreation,there is no accidental pregnancy” he slowed his finger and whispered “can I?” in my ear then bit my lobe gently. My eyes crossed and I nodded frantically.

“Thank the gods” he groaned before removing his finger. Catching my thigh and holding it high he eased forward, seating himself fully. I shuddered feeling every vein, every inch of that cock inside me. He set his teeth in the space where my neck met my shoulder and thrust shallowly a few times, swirling his hips at the end of each thrust. “ Kale…” I moaned “ fuck me hard”

He froze and then begin to slam into me so forcefully the bed begin to squeak. “Fuuuuuccckkkk” I cried scratching at the sheets trying to find something, anything to anchor myself in a reality gone hazy with pure sensation. Finding the sheets to be no help...damn their cotton blend hides!....I raised my hands and clutched the head board. He let go of my thigh and rasped “ keep it up” then took his hand and begin to strum my clit again. He opened his mouth and begin to suck on my tendon, rolling it with his teeth and tongue. ‘Oh God oh God oh God!” I could feel it coming, like a wave of pure pleasure about to crash me onto the shore.

“Come. Now” he said slamming his hips forward and grinding against me while pushing his thumb down firmly on my clit. I could feel my eyes rolling to the back of my head and my mouth opening on a wordless cry as I obeyed. He bit down into my neck moaning as he came as well and incredibly I could feel my orgasm swelling again. The hell?  I thought almost blacking out from the pleasure. He eased my leg back down and removed my white knuckled grip from the head board. We lay there quietly just breathing with his arm wrapped tightly around me. He kissed my neck over the same spot and i felt a quiver go through me.

“What time is it?” I murmured feeling like i could easily fall asleep again. He looked around me to the clock on the nightstand “ it's 3 am” He kissed me gently “go to sleep Ke’Ola I'll wake you in the morning” I closed my eyes already drifting off, one last thought drifting through my mind what’s Ke’Ola?.

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I woke up again and stretched , raising my arms and pointing my toes before flopping back down. I stared at the ceiling a silly smile on my face. Damn I need to take Shaye’s advice more often I thought as I got up from the bed. I paused wondering where Kale was but then i heard movement coming from the bathroom. ‘Kale?’ I called rolling to the edge of the bed and sitting up. “ Good you're up” he called back “ I ordered us some breakfast. Out should be here soon” I could feel my tummy rumbling mmmmmm breakfast  I got up the rest of the way and  headed into the bath room as he was leaving out. I went up on my tip toes and accepted the kiss he gave me, turning my head at the last second so it landed on my cheek. “Morning breath” I explained and laughed a little when he rolled his eyes. I closed the door behind him and headed to the shower, determined to wash quickly, wanting to see what food the Selkrian would have ordered.

I dried off and dressed pulling on a pair of faded jeans and a tank top. I glanced at the clock as I walked out the room seeing we had a few hours till check out. He really had knocked me out with sex. I grinned to myself as I walked to the dining room table, unable to feel any regrets. “Hey’ he said walking over and giving me a quick kiss “go on and sit down I'll just grab the drinks.” I nodded and sat noticing the in room dining cart standing next to the table, and seeing he had already unloaded most of the items. I took a moment to compose my face, I wanted to grin sooo badly! He had ordered another of my favorites, Belgian waffles, sausage,scrambled eggs and he was bringing over a pitcher of oj.

“I’ve had a great time with you this weekend” he said looking up at me as he cut up his waffles. “ I hope you’ve had fun as well”

I nodded, smiling slightly “ Oh yes, it’s been fantastic” It was the truth, I couldn't lie, I would love to spend more time with him and really explore this chemistry we had together. But if he just wanted to leave it like this I wouldn't cling.

“I’m very interested in seeing more of you, your smart and funny…” His voice lowered and his eyes turned bright, beginning to glow slightly. “ And I haven't paid your body the full attention that it deserves”

I stared at him wide eyed, my forkful of eggs hovering my by mouth. “Ok” I squeaked, then cleared my throat and lowered my voice “ sure, sounds good”

He winked at me and resumed eating.

We checked out the hotel a couple of hours later and were waiting downstairs for valet to pull the car around to us.Kale was standing next to me on the phone, his arm slung around my shoulder. When his phone had rung earlier he had glanced at the screen, grimaced and apologized saying he had to take the call. He had started out in english and it seemed like there was a problem with one of his manufacturing plants but then the conversation had switched to what I assumed was selk. It sounded beautiful, the consonants flowing together lyrically. I could tell though that it wasn't a happy conversation as he was very tense next to me. I pulled away from him as our car came to a stop in front of us. I thanked the valet as he held the door opened for me and sat down in the car. He got in next to me and smoothly pulled out into traffic.

“Is everything ok?” I asked curiously, he looked a bit perturbed, his brow was lowered and he was chewing on his bottom lip.

“No not really” he glanced at me quickly before looking back at the road “ I’m sorry to do this, as I had originally planned to take you out tonight, but I must fly to one of my plants in Texas tonight. There seems to be a major problem, there are rumors of the workers planning to go on strike soon.”

“Oh wow. Why are they doing that?”

He grimaced “ Seems they are not happy to be working for an alien.  I’ll go down there and meet with the union rep, see how this can be smoothed over.”

I nodded “I hope that helps. Be careful, you never know how some people may react to your presence there”

The smile he sent my way was warm “ No worries, I’ll watch my back” he caught my hand with his and rubbed his thumb across the back of it  “ I would like to see you when I come back though, maybe dinner at my place?”

I smiled back at him “Sounds good”





KALE

I grumbled silently to myself as I dropped Mia back to her house, saw her to her door and kissed her senseless before driving away. I had to hurry and get to the airport so that I could travel over to texas and see about this unrest that was brewing. I was by no means a dictator but if my workers were this unhappy that there were rumors of a strike happening, I needed to get to the bottom of it and fast. I was resentful that the business was pulling me away from my Ke’ola though. After last night I knew for sure that’s what she was, I had to struggle so hard not to bite her as instinct demanded. I had almost slipped this morning, biting a little too hard but stopping myself before I broke the skin.

I grinned to myself, practically giddy at the fact that I had finally, finally, found her. I had given up hope when I first came to this planet as we had no idea if humans were compatible to us in that way , then when we found out they were, we were unsure if they would be our fated mates. Over the years we had discovered as one by one different selkrian spread out across the globe had bonded to humans. There were some who disapproved, believing humans to be inferior to us or that we should stick to our own kind. I’ve never enforced that with my hale, as long as all relationships were consensual, they could mate as they pleased. I took a deep breath already feeling the need to be with my Ke’ola, to ensure she was safe and happy.

This would get worse once we had claimed each other, we would be unable to be apart for long without experiencing extreme discomfort. I thought back to when I’d slipped and called her Ke’ola, wincing to myself when I thought of what I would have said if she had caught me and asked what it meant.I didn't want to lie but I could tell she was not ready yet for that level of commitment. True she had spent some time with me and had given herself to me, but hearing promises of forever and always ...it was too soon for that. I would need to ease into this a little and in the meantime until she was ready, fight the urge to fully mark her as mines.







End Notes:

Whew!! Think I need a cigarette now....if only I smoked......

Chapter 7 by Gabriella Clark

6

It was Friday and the week had flown by quickly. I hadn't seen Kale at all as he was still in texas but we had talked together daily. He was supposed to be coming back tonight and we had made plans to meet up at his home for dinner. I was in my office finishing up some paperwork, when Arianna walked into my office and dropped into one of the chairs placed in front of my desk.

“I hate you” she announced, tossing a package down on my desk and crossing her arms in front of her chest.

I laughed out loud knowing exactly why she was saying this to me. Arianna was one of the messengers we used in house to courier mainly between Autonomous and Totality, but she really went wherever we had a need of her to go. This last trip I had sent her on though, I knew she wouldn't thank me for. It was way to the west of the city about a 30 minute ride by car. I knew she rode a vespa though so for her the trip would take more like an hour.

“I’m sorry! But I really needed those documents asap” I picked up the package she had dropped and opened it. I leafed through the papers quickly making sure everything had been signed as needed.

“Yea yea yea” she pouted “ Your giggles say otherwise”

I pursed my lips together to stop another round of giggles, giving her a blank stare that she held. We continued to stare at each other until I saw her lips twitch. I crossed my eyes at her and stuck out my tongue and she finally released her laugh. I grinned victoriously, I knew she couldn't hold it for long. We had been friends for a long time, going back to when she started. She was a great employee always coming in when needed or staying late. I know she had been through alot and wasn't able to go to school as she wanted too. In fact she was one of the reasons I had pushed for the internship, I planned on talking her into applying for it as soon as I was finished with it.

She reached into her messenger bag and brought out a little box. Leaning over my desk she placed it in front of me and stood. “ I hope you enjoy that…. Even though you stink” she stuck out her tongue at me and gave a little wave before she left.

I chuckled to myself as I opened the box, nestled inside were 2 doughnuts. I rolled my eyes heavenward and shouted out “THANK YOU”. One was a strawberry shortcake donut and the other was a cookies and cream. I pulled out my phone and quickly sent her a message.

I knew you LOVED meeeeeeee

Yea yea yea kick rocks

I laughed out loud and closed the donut box. I would wait to share them with Kale tonight.

Image result for small planet drawing



I sat at the dining table and took a look around the room as I waited for Kale to finish putting dinner together. He had told me when I got here that instead of having to share me he wanted tonight to be just us. He had decided to cook and would accept no help from me when I offered. He had kissed me silly and with a slap on my ass directed me to take a seat at the table. His apartment was open and airy with floor to ceiling windows letting in a lot of natural sunlight. It was a little too modern for my taste with a lot of glass and chrome everywhere. He had little personal touches scattered here and there. I could see framed photos and little souvenirs from his travels, he had a warm area rug in front of his couch a cheerful throw placed on the back of his loveseat.

He set down glasses of juice and took a seat looking proud. “There's not much I can do in the kitchen outside of operating the microwave and making a mean bowl of cereal” I laughed out loud, seems single males were the same no matter where in the galaxy they came from. “ But I can make a world class inside out grilled cheese with ham and tomato soup” He winked at me and served me before serving himself. I looked at the sandwich curiously never having had a inside out grilled cheese. There looked to be melted cheese on the outside and inside of the bread, i took a bite and gave him a thumbs up as I chewed.

“How did it go in texas?”

His eyes looked a little troubled as he glanced at me “ I don't know for sure really. I believe i calmed down the majority. I toured the plant and had several meetings with union reps and the workers there. Most seemed satisfied with the answers I provided but only time will truly tell”

“Is that a very important plant there ? will it hurt production if they were to actually go through with the strike?”

He sighed and put down his spoon, stapling his fingers together thoughtfully. “ Yes it will impact production but not very significantly. Its a smaller plant mainly there to provide support to the bigger one in the next town.”

I nodded silently thinking about the issue and what could possibly be done to reassure the worker’s minds. Unfortunately I knew there was some prejudices that existed in the world and no matter what Kale did, some people would not want to work for an alien. Before I knew it, I had eaten the last bite of my sandwich and finished my soup. To my surprise it had actually been very good.

“Since this meal meets your approval I would like to negotiate me spending this weekend with you”

“Alright...what are you offering?”

He looked at me seriously “Sex….lots of really good sex”

I choked on the sip of juice I'd just taken, coughing to clear my throat. “Uh” I squeaked “ I'll take it” He smirked slyly apparently satisfied with himself and resumed eating.

We cuddled on the couch later after tidying up our dinner mess. We were watching an old sci-fi movie and sharing the donuts Arianna head given me. My head was on his chest and his arm around my shoulders, the donuts sitting in his lap. We were laughing as I asked him ridiculous questions about the technology and alien creatures that were in the movie. I wanted to know if the tech could actually be achieved or was already in use or if the alien life forms would actually look like those on the movie. He laughed at me true but he also answered my questions while passing me pieces of donuts. Like most alien life his people had come across bore at least a slight resemblance to humans since we had all been created in the image of what he called The Supreme Beings. They were highly intelligent life forms that had lived for eons as they were truly immortal. Some life he explained to me had come to be through a matter of evolution, but most had come from The Supreme Beings.

They all had a humanoid shape, 2 arms 2 legs and a head, but from there the differences multiplied. Some had tails, other horns, some had scales instead of skin. I listened to him talk about the trips he had taken with his father before he assumed the leadership of his hale with fascination. I never knew there was so much out there to see and discover. Sure I thought it likely that there was life in the galaxy besides us, after all if we were here what’s stopping anyone else from being out there? I fell asleep sometime during the second movie cradled in his arms, listening to his heartbeat. It was one of the best nights of my life.

I woke the next morning feel warm and content. I turned my head and looked at Kale. He was still sleeping, lashes long and dark laying against his cheekbones. I wondered how it could be that someone I connected to so fast, had come to care about so quickly wasn't even human? Don't get me wrong I didn't love him, not yet, but I knew that with time and care that I would be saying those words to him. Question was how did he feel about me?

His eyes opened and he looked at me sleepily. “Good morning Ke’Ola” he said huskily and kissed me warmly. “ noooo” I said pushing away weakly “morning stinkies!” His eyes crinkled with laughter “ morning stinkies?” I pouted slightly “yes” I hesitated and then said with forced casualness “ what does K’ola mean?” I stumbled over the pronunciation.

His eyes flickered and he said slowly “ Ke'Ola? it's a term of endearment, almost like saying love or sweetheart” I thought about that and I felt warm inside. Maybe he did feel something besides lust for me, but I told myself not to get to excited after all He had said almost. “Wow we slept late, it's almost noon” I said noticing the time. His eyes twinkled at me “ well you did make us go to bed late. Watching movies and picking my brain about the cosmos” I laughed as he continued “ I think you owe me for answering your endless questions.

His eyes changed color beginning to glow as he watched me intently. He reached over and threw the throw off us before pulling me on top of him. “ You know I believe I wore myself out cooking for you” he said pulling my shirt over my head and unsnapping my bra before pulling it off “and I have this ache right here “ he thrust upward and ground himself against me slowly “ if you could just help me with it?”  I laughed breathlessly as I moved down his body and unbuttoned his pants “ No problem”  I pulled his pants down and took a moment appreciate the sight in front of my face. His cock stood at attention, already hard and pointing up seeming as if it was waving hello. I licked my tongue up the side of his shaft ending with a swirl along the tip. I looked up at him from beneath my lashes noting the tense look on his face and how he had put one hand behind his head, clutching the arm rest. I smirked to myself before opening my mouth wide and swallowing him whole.

He hissed throwing his head back against the armrest. I bobbed up and down on his cock, trying my best to take him to the root on each pass. His whole body was straining, hips moving in the same rhythm as my mouth,  but I didn't want him to come to soon. I eased back until only half his cock was in my mouth and wrapped my hand around the rest of it. I slowed my rhythm gliding up and  paying special attention to the head of his cock on each pass. I kept this up for awhile until he was panting heavily, his hand grabbing fistfulls of my hair. I figured now would be a good time to stop teasing him and let go of his cock with my head. He let out a grunt about to protest when I swallowed him again, this time opening my throat and taking all of him until my nose was buried against his groin. I swallowed once and heard him shout from above me as his body jerked. I did it again and felt his hands tighten in my hair and he started saying something in his language. I did it again and felt the warm rush of him in my mouth.

I sat up once he had fallen back against the ouch and daintily wiped the corners of my mouth. He looked at me and smiled evilly while sitting up slowly. I decided I didn't much care for the look he was giving me and slowly got up off the couch. “So uh….I’ll just go get some food started if you don't..shit!” I bolted, running as hard as I could towards the bedroom hoping I could get there and lock the door behind me. My laughter trailed behind me as he let out a mock growl and chased me. Right as I reached the door he snagged an arm around my waist and pulled me back against him.

I snorted out laughter and struggled with him weakly as he fought to pull my pants down. As they fell to my ankle he wrapped both arms around my waist and lifted me up into the air so that my legs were clear of the pants. He turned me and put my back against the wall as he kissed me fiercely. I wrapped my legs around his waist and my arms around his neck, kissing him back just as frantically. He lifted me higher against the wall and tongued first one nipple then the other, causing me to moan loudly. His hand skimmed down my side until it dropped between my legs and parted my folds. When he discovered how wet I already was he took two fingers and shoved them deep.

He thrust deep, grinding the heel of his hand against my clit with each pass. I thrust my hips in time with hand Chasing that peak with a fervent zeal. I whimpered feeling it coming closely, my eyes squeezed tightly shut. He took his fingers out and my eyes popped open angrily, I opened my mouth ready to rip him a new one when he lined our bodies up and thrust deep, seating himself fully inside me. “Oh!” I cried out, shuddering as that pushed me over the edge. I clamped down on him shuddering, feeling him fight past the tightness to keep thrusting , drawing my orgasm out.

He threw his head back and continued to thrust chasing his own ending. I licked up his throat and caressed his back, quite content with what I had gotten and willing to let him do what he needed. His head came back down and he looked me in my eyes, drawing his hand up and circling my throat. He didn't tighten his hand, merely  held me firmly. He pulled back but when he pushed back in there was something ...different.. Something that wasn't there before. There was a raised...knob I couldn't think of any other way to describe it… on the end of his cock now positioned behind his head.

“ What the…?” I started to say but then he withdrew, but as he did the knob rubbed against my G Spot. “ fuucckkk” I gasped scrabbling for a firm hold on his shoulders as he set up a punishing rhythm. Every time he withdrew and pushed back in that knob rubbed against me, driving me Up. The. Wall. I didn't know if I wanted to get closer or further away, the pleasure was too intense and it was starting to feel like I had to pee a little. The pressure was heavy in my stomach and I didnt know what was wrong.

“Kale” I whined softly before sucking in a breath when a particular sharp spike of pleasure went through and that pressure increased. “ Somethings wrong here”

He shook his head at me , sweat glistening on his brow as he tilted my hips and went over that spot again, only harder, faster. “No….let it come”

What? Let what come? I thought but it was too late then. With that new angle, and the spot he was rubbing over, there was no way I could stop anything. It started in my toes and moved up, tearing me apart. My mouth opened in a silent scream as I clamped down on him,my toes curling and eyes squeezed shut. They opened in shock a moment later though as I felt something drip down my leg. I breathed heavily, in shock as he brought his head up from my neck having come as well. “ Did I..? Did you?” I couldn't even complete my sentence as he straighten from the wall slowly and staggering, walked into his room and dropped us on the bed. He fell on his back with me sprawled out on top of him.

“Yes” he panted but still managed to smile smugly….the bastard…” I believe you did” He raised one of his hands and turning very slightly patted himself on the back. I rolled my eyes to weak right now to do anything but when I caught my breath, his ass was mine. Well...right after this nap, I fell asleep where I was, with a smile on my face.

I woke up sometime later and stretched feeling well rested and refreshed. I glanced at the clock and noticed that it was going on 7pm and blinked in shock. I had practically slept the day away. I looked around for Kale and noticed I was alone in the bed. I got up and put on a robe before shuffling out of the room and heading for the kitchen. I looked to the left and noticed Kale was on the balcony, talking on his phone. I wondered idly who he could be talking to at this time, but shrugged it off figuring it would probably be work related.

I worked silently in the kitchen putting together something for us to eat. I couldn't deny it any longer, I was extremely happy right now. I got even more happy as I felt his arms slide around my waist and he kissed the side of my neck.

“Hey” I murmured, lifting up a slice of the chicken I had found in his fridge to his lips.

“Mmm. How’d you sleep?” he ate the piece of chicken and went back to nuzzling me.

“Great actually. Is everything ok?” I asked gesturing to the phone he had placed on the counter.

“Yes actually, that was the plant in texas. While some of the employees have quit the rest have decided to stay on and we’ve come to a mutual agreement”

“ That's great!” I exclaimed as I grabbed the tray I had made up and turned to head to the couch. He followed behind me carrying the cups and placed them on the coffee table. He sat on the couch and drew me down next to him, wrapping an arm around my shoulders and pulling me in tight. He kissed me on my forehead and grabbed the remote before turning on the tv. I snuggled into his chest and got ready to enjoy another night of movie watching, knowing there was no other place I’d rather be.








Kale

I can't remember the last time I enjoyed myself, fully relaxing for the first time in ages. I thanked the gods for blessing me with such a sexy, smart, funny Ke’Ola. I was shocked but not terribly surprised my mating knot had came out last night. Usually That was not supposed to happen until the bond was already in my place, but I guess my body was a little impatient. It was something males had to ensure procreation, the knot raised up and stayed there ensuring the bonded pair stayed locked together for a few minutes after the act so nothing would be wasted.

I remembered seeing the spot on her neck where I had bitten her sunday morning when I had gotten a little carried away. I hadn't seen it before as I had been gone but by now the mark should have faded. It hadn't and whenever I brushed my thumb over that spot she had shivered like it was still sensitive. I had heard of this from my father but as it didn't happen with every pair I hadn't paid it any attention. Though now that I was thinking about it I knew what it was. It was a claiming mark, sometimes in mates that hasn't gone through the bonding process these marks would appear. It served as both a warning to others and a statement to the one who bore it. It warned others that that person was taken and it showed the wearer that they were indeed claimed by another.

I took this as just another sign that we were meant to be together but I knew I couldn't keep what she was to me secret any longer. Things were progressing quickly and it was unfair to her that she wasn’t getting full disclosure. I felt bad about not telling the whole truth about what Ke’Ola meant, but I still didn't want to overwhelm her while we were getting to know each other still. I resolved to tell he fully what she meant to me and the position she would have amongst my hale next weekend. Until then I would continue to woo her and do all I could do hopefully convince her to bond with me when the moment came. Anything worth having took time and patience, Mia was definitely worth the wait.

 

Chapter 8 by Gabriella Clark
Author's Notes:

Hey guys! I'm sorry to say we are nearing the end of our journey with Kale and Mia. I would totally positively appreciate it though for those of you who use amazon kindle to leave a review of the book on there. Ill post the link below.   https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076DLCRW3

 

We will definetely hear from Kale and Mia again in my already completed second title Loving Luc, this book gives us more history into the Noctis and what they want with Earth. This book is in the kindle scount competition.  https://kindlescout.amazon.com/p/2TB89HBREIOGV

 

Lastly I'm also working on their wedding story which will provide us more of a look into their culture and their history with the Noctis. I've already posted the first chapter here and you can always check my website for the eta.

https://gabriellatheauthor.com

7

“ Well well well” Shaye said as I walked into my office Monday morning, leering at me from where she was leaning against my desk. “Someone looks like they got some this weekend”

I couldn't help but laugh as she added some corny bow chicka bow bow noises to the cabbage patch dance she was doing. “Are you done?”  

“ in 3..2..1..finished” she said finishing her dance and turning to look at me as I dropped down into my chair.

“Now tell me everything!” She said rubbing her hands together excitedly. I looked at her consideringly there was something I wanted to talk to her about but didnt know how Kale would feel if I mentioned his mating knot to her. It had been quite a surprise when I felt that and while I understood his explanation of it, I still wasn't sure on how I felt about it.  I fanned my face as I thought back to when I first felt it, I definitely wasn't complaining about it though.

“Don't have a hot flash now!” she said rolling her eyes “ I need information! How big is his spaceship?” She held her hands 8 inches apart and raised her eyebrows. I blushed and reached out tugging her hands further apart. “Nnnoooooooo” she breathed. I nodded unable to stop a satisfied grin from crossing my face.

“Wow I figured he would be big, it's not like Kale is a small male but…” a gasp from the doorway interrupted her. We looked up to see Ly’lah standing there with her hand covering her mouth. I frowned over at her, I was pretty easy going and friendly with the others in my department. Still there should have been a knock on the door, it was common courtesy. Plus I was the director what if I was in the middle of a meeting?

Ly’lah” I said gently “it's rude to come into someone's office without knocking”

“Not to mention your boss's office” Shaye grumbled under her breath then stood “ I gotta get going anyways, we’re putting together ideas for a new addition to Bucket List. We’ll have lunch together” she headed out the door tossing me a look over her shoulder that let me know the conversation wasn't finished.

“I'm sorry I should have knocked before coming in but the door was cracked and...where you discussing Mr. Kapena?” Ly’lah asked coming to stand in front of my desk. I raised my eyebrows a little surprised at her boldness. I thought about it and decided to answer, it wasn't like we were keeping it a secret and Kale had asked to officially date before he left Sunday night. “ Yes we were. He and I started dating over the weekend”

She smiled a little stiffly before saying “ That's great. I don't know if you knew but he and I are from the same hale. If you have any questions about being with a Selkrian let me know. I would be glad to help” She nodded at me and turned to go. “Wait I was curious about one thing” I couldn't help feeling that Kale hadn't told me everything about what he kept calling me. Getting the meaning from another Selkrian would clear it up for me. “What does K’la mean.’

She looked at me and hesitated “K’la? Are you sure?” I nodded “ I  think so yes”

“ well it means a bedmate, a lover but a temporary one someone you're not very serious about” I stilled and felt the happy glow from the weekend fade leaving nothing behind but ice.

“Would you date a K’la?” I asked a little hoarsely being to be sure about where I stood. She looked at me and said slowly “ I do not want to cause you any distress… but no. A K’la would be more like a casual relationship”

I nodded and forced a smile “thanks for the translation, did you need anything?”

She shook her head and turned back towards the door “It's not important I'll stop by later” she closed the door behind her. I just sat and stared blankly at the wall, I had told myself not to get hyped by what sounded like an endearment. Human man did it all the time, they would say whatever, do whatever they needed to to get laid. Why should a Selkrian be any different? I put my elbows on my desk and held my forehead. Just because you felt a connection doesn't mean he did I thought sadly to myself.

Heaving a deep sigh I stood up and did an all over shake. I would not let this get me down, I would take it for what it was a great weekend with incredible sex that unfortunately would not happen again. I wasn't into having casual relationships or being an on call lay, if that's what Kale wanted he could just find another earth girl to play with. I nodded my head firmly resolved to keep it strictly professional from here on out and sat back down, ignoring the twinge I felt in my heart.


Image result for small planet drawing


“Have you talked to him about it?” Shaye asked me over lunch later. I shook my head concentrating on my burger “ He’s been texting me today I haven't responded though”

Shaye sighed looking pensive “ I think you should talk to him about it. I mean didn't he ask you to officially date? And I don't know what your definition is but a one night stand doesn't last a whole weekend”

I looked at her irritably “Sure” I said sarcastically “I'll just go up to him and be like hheeeyyy I know you didn't make me any promises but were you just trying to hit it and quit it? Besides who's to say what he thinks dating is”

She looked off to the side and groaned defeated “Alright I guess you have a point” she looked back at me and said “So what are you going to do?”

I looked down as my phone vibrated and saw it was from Kale, it was the sixth one today I'm not sure what's going on or why your not responding. I hope it wasn't anything that I did. I put my phone face down on the table and looked at Shaye “Just keep it business. It shouldn't be hard to avoid him after all being the CEO should keep him plenty busy.”

I saw I had spoken to soon as a knock came at my door as I was shutting down my computer the end of the day. I looked up as Kale came in and closed the door behind him. He leaned against the door as we stared at each other for a few minutes. I bit my lip as I replayed the weekend in my mind. Not just the sex although that was fantastic but how we'd watched movies and cooked together. The conversations we'd had and the laughter that was shared. It hurt to think that I'd come so close to falling for him and the whole time it was just …. sex.

I smiled at him brightly determined to keep my real feelings hidden, I didn't want to be more of a fool than I already was. “Hello Kale how are you?”

He watched me closely, eyes narrowed “ I would be better Mia if I had heard from you today. Is everything alright?”

I collected my purse from my bottom drawer and got out my keys “ Oh yes everything is fine, I was just super busy today and then Shaye  ambushed me for lunch. Then I had some meetings today, It's just been non-stop” I wanted to get out of this enclosed space but feared I would grab onto him if I moved any closer.

“Ok” he said slowly “how about I pick up some dinner and meet you at your place?”

“Oh no that won't be necessary” I said hastily “ I have plans with Shaye that we made a while ago.”  I had to get out of this conversation, this was awkward and all I wanted was his arms around me again. I started moving towards the door determined to leave. He watched me head towards him, standing straight but making no move from in front of the door. He leaned close to kiss me and I turned so it landed on my cheek.

His jaw clenched “ Are you sure there's nothing wrong?”

I sighed unable to keep this going “ Look Kale I'm sorry I just need some time to take this all in. I need to think about this” I peered up at him miserably and reached around for the door knob. “ I'll call you ok?” He nodded and slowly moved out the way. I opened the door and saw Ly’Lah there with her hand raised to knock.

“Oh!” She lowered her hand startled “I was just going to leave you these policy revisions I finished”  I looked at the stack of papers in her hand and nodded “Just leave them on my desk I'll look over them in the morning” Brushing past her, I hurried for the elevator. Listening to them speak in selk, I stared ahead as the elevator closed. I hadn't lied I did have a date tonight, only it was with my favorite fuzzy robe and a pint of cookie dough ice cream.


Kale

I watched my Ke’Ola leave baffled as to this turn of events. When we parted ways Sunday night it was on good terms. I left her with a blush in her cheeks and a smile on her face looking forward to today when I could see her again.

“Lakai” Ly’lah a Selkrian from my hale I'd known a long time stopped next to me and bowed her head. I had chosen her to help with the human relations department of Totality and with the Hale. She was a no nonsense maiden with a good head on her shoulders and a good grasp of human culture as she had been one of the first with me here on the planet. I murmured a greeting still staring after Mia even though she was long gone. I debated if I should go to her home anyways and press her to find out the real reason she was troubled or give her the time she had asked for. Ly’lah looked to where I was staring and then back towards me, her lips pursed into a thin line.

“You should not be playing with the earth females, Lakai” Ly'lah said disapprovingly. “This one seems to think you are..dating. I don't know why she is thinking that”

I snarled rounding on her quickly “ You will be respectful in how you address me.This is none of your concern. But you will be extra careful on how you speak of my Ke'Ola!”

She lowered her eyes quickly in a sign of submission but then raised them wide eyed “I mean no disrespect but after what she said earlier I thought…” she gasped “ Of course! Ke’Ola not K’la!”

I felt a sense of foreboding come over me “What are you talking about?”

She bowed her head again but said quickly “ I had no idea Lakai when she asked me this earlier. She pronounced it wrong and I told her what it meant and…”

I cut her off impatient “Get to the point, what happened earlier?”

 

She looked up at me and said simply “ I overheard her and Ms. Gordon talking about you. Ms.Jones told me you were dating and asked me what k’la meant….and I told her”. I looked at her dismayed a k’la was a plaything someone you just wanted to have sex with not a serious relationship, it was basically the earth equivalent of a one night stand. No wonder she was acting strange! She thought I was just playing with her, that I wasn't serious. My jaw firmed, I had to make this right “Call the Hale together, we meet this weekend so I can announce my Ke'Ola , our new Pilia”. I turned away as she nodded and headed toward the elevator, it was time to fix things


Chapter 9 by Gabriella Clark
Author's Notes:

Well guys we're in the home stretch now. If anyone is interested in being a beta reader (and have experience)for my future works please drop me your email. here's the link again to purchase Loving Kale if your so inclined and also to vote for Loving Luc. Also PLEASE PLEASE leave a review for me on Amazon or Goodreads...I'll love you forever!

 

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076DLCRW3

 

https://kindlescout.amazon.com/p/2TB89HBREIOGV

 

I lay on the couch in my favorite spongebob pajamas covered with a fuzzy blanket. Don't judge me ok? I like the show, spongebob was hilarious, besides tonight was about comfort as I dealt with disappointment. I dug a spoon into a pint of my favorite cookie dough ice cream while I booed at the tv. Relationships never worked out like they did on romantic comedies and I just wanted to let them know my feelings about this blatant display of false advertisement.

I got up as I heard a knock on the door. “ Who is it?” I called as I looked through the peephole I wasn't expecting anyone. “ Cheese and crackers!” I hissed under my breath as I saw Kale standing there. Here I was looking like what Mr.Krabs drug in and he was standing there like a galactic supermodel. F it I thought it wasn't like I was trying to impress anyone anyways, I threw back my shoulders and opened the door. “ Hey” I said trying to sound casual as I leaned against the door jam. He didn't speak only crowded me back into the entryway and closed the door behind him. “Hey!” I cried indignantly “what's the big idea?”

“This” he said roughly, pulling me into him and kissing me hard. Once my hands were clutching his shoulders and I was near breathless he let me go and said “I know what Ly’Lah told you, for the record I have never called you K’la, I called you Ke’Ola.” I smiled weakly and said “Oops” and moved towards the couch. I sat down and picked up the remote, turning the tv off before I looked up at him. “Well you should have told me the whole truth when I asked you. What is a Ke’Ola?.” He sat next to me and took my hand in his “I didn't want to scare you off since we were just getting to know each other and you seemed unsure of starting anything with me. We selkrians have a life mate, one partner we chose to spend the rest of our lives with.”

“So you're basically talking about a marriage, we have that too I don't understand what the big deal is” I said frustrated. He placed a finger on my lips shushing me and continued “ It’s more than a human marriage, it's a joining of minds and spirits. Once I claim you as my Ke’Ola your lifespan will match mine and we will be able to speak mind to mind. I knew as soon as I kissed you that first time that you were it for me it's instinctive for us, but I didn't want to rush you.”

I looked at him mouth agape wow I thought I really got the wrong translation!  He watched me letting me have a few moments to let it sink in. One on hand it was really romantic but on the other it was a lot, I mean what if you made a mistake and tied yourself to the wrong person? What if someone cheated? I asked him those questions needing to be sure of what I would be getting myself into.

“There can be no other outside of the bond” he said vehemently “ We revere all pairings, and those who find their Ke’Ola are considered blessed beyond belief. There is no mistake no choosing the wrong person, The marks show as proof.” He gently touched the crook of my neck in the spot he had bitten, the mark not having faded. I shivered as a pulse of heat traveled to my clit, I had noticed that whenever he touched it over the weekend I had this same reaction but I thought it was just because he was touching me. “What is this?” I asked curious, “These are bonding marks, they only appear on true matings. If you weren't my Ke’Ola I could have bit you all day and the mark would have faded and you wouldn't feel anything when I touch it”

He moved his hand down touching the swell of my breast over my heart and then the inside of my thigh. “During the bonding process I will place a bite in these spots as well, once done we will be able to speak mind to mind and your lifespan will match mines. I wanted you to be sure, I swear I was going to talk to you about this” I nodded my head I believed him, besides he was right this was a lot for someone to take in. I took a deep breath, I knew I had feelings for him, that I felt a connection but was that enough? Could I honestly say I loved him right now? I thought about living my life with him the laughter, children and light they could follow. Then I thought about not having him in my life, my breath caught and I knew I couldn't let that happen.

He moved to kneel in front of me and looked deep into my eyes “I want there to be no confusion , no misunderstandings. Your mind? I want that. Your love? I crave that. Your spirit and all that you are? I need that. There isn't and never will be another female for me.” He reached into his pocket and withdrawing a ring box, he opened it to reveal a teardrop shaped amethyst surrounded by diamonds in a platinum setting. I held my hands in front of my mouth tears coming to my eyes, I remembered telling him my favorite stone was amethyst. I couldn't believe after all the talking we did that weekend he remembered.

“I know it is human custom to propose on bended knee” he smiled up at me and I could see all the love he had for me shining in his eyes. “Mia Jones, you are all I could have hoped for, everything I could have ever dreamed of. I want you to be my Ke’Ola , the mother of my children, my partner for the rest of our lives. Will you marry me?” I nodded speechless and watched teary eyed as he slid the ring on my finger. I threw myself in his arms and covered his face in kisses.

“ So what else happens in the bonding besides some biting” I waggled my eyebrows at him suggestively. He laughed “ It's not a formal event the bonding happens in private with a celebration dinner happening a few days later.” His eyes darkened and he abruptly stood up bringing me with him, once we were on our feet he swept me up into his arms bridal style and started walking purposely to my room.

“What happened?” I gasped startled holding on to his neck. I watched as his eyes started to glow “ You said yes, It's time to make you mine” I felt my belly clench as he placed a knee on the bed and lowered me to it. He started to strip the pajamas from but paused and stared at them. I could feel my cheeks burn as I blushed hard crap I had forgot about that. He looked up at me and laughingly shook his head. “It will certainly never be dull Ke’Ola” he murmured warmly.

I lay back as he finished stripping me and moved to work on his clothes. I watched him strip, feeling my blood heat at the thought of what was to come. He crawled up the bed the look in his eyes making me bite my lip. He paused at the juncture of my hips, taking hold of my thighs and pushing them wide and back. “Hold them” my hands shot down to my ankles, and thanking God I was flexible, I grabbed them and held them against the back of my thighs. This brought my hips up and forward and also out my folds on display. He lowered his mouth and hovered right above my clit. I hissed out a breath as he opened his mouth and licked me with the flat of his tongue. Starting at the bottom of my lips he licked me from bottom to top over and over until I was straining against him.

Sealing his mouth over my clit, he started giving me fast flicks with his pointed tongue. Catching hold of my hips he tilted me further up as I panted, my cries loud in the room. He pushed me over the edge as he flattened his tongue again so on the next lick the ridges went directly where I needed it most. Thighs shaking I came hard, screaming his name. Turning his head he struck fast, sinking his teeth into my inner thigh and pushing me to new heights. Sobbing incoherently I didn't know whether I wanted to push closer or away, the pleasure to intense.

He got up on his knees and flipped me over. He raised my hips and entered me roughly as I got up onto my elbows. “Fffuuuccckkk” I moaned as he reached a new spot inside me that had me clutching the pillow tight. “There?” He panted holding my hips tightly and going over that spot faster. “Oh God!” I cried out pushing back into his thrusts as I came again.His thrusts slowed as I came down and then stopped. Turning me back over he lifted my hands and placed them around his neck as he entered me again.

Settling his lips against mine he kissed me deeply as he moved slowly. He cupped my breast in his hand and pinched my nipple between his thumb and forefinger. I started panting climbing the peak again, my nails raking down his back as his thrusts sped up and he started to pound into me. I opened my mouth wide and screamed. Leaning down he sunk his teeth into my breast as I clamped down on him the pleasure leaving me senseless.

 

I stirred later something waking me. I felt a presence in the back of mind. It felt a little weird, but had me more curious than worried. I remembered Kale saying that we would be able to speak mind to mind once bonded. Feeling hesitant I mentally said hello?

Mia? I heard Kale's voice instantly Ke’Ola are you ok? You've been asleep for awhile, I was worried.

I'm fine I looked next to me but could already tell he wasn't in the room where are you?

I'm making you my other specialty, toasted peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. I figured you would be hungry when you awoke.

Thank you I am. I stretched and turned over, snuggling his pillow close So what happens now? I could feel him moving closer as he thought Now we eat and enjoy a few days off as we celebrate our bonding. Then I will introduce you to the Hale this weekend and we begin the rest of our lives together. He entered the room and moved towards the bed smiling and set down our plates on the nightstand.

Slipping his hand behind my head he kissed me warmly. Pulling back he said “ Not only are you now bonded to me, you are now the Pilia to my Lakai.” I sighed and said jokingly “ If that means what I think it does, is it too late to back out now?” Moving to cover my body with his he purred “Oh yes Ke’Ola, much too late” I'm sure life together with him will have its ups and downs, every relationship did. But I knew that we could build something beautiful together. Taking a deep breath I whispered “I love you”. It started in his eyes and moved down to his mouth, a smile so bright and joy filled I couldn't help smiling in return. “ And I adore you my Ke'Ola”.

 

 

Chapter 10 by Gabriella Clark
Author's Notes:

Hey guys! We've reached the end of our story with Mia and Kale (for now) Thanks so much for reading their story! I have the second book completed and am working on book 2.5 as we speak. Check out my website gabriellatheauthor.com for all the latest news.

 

To leave a review or if you want to purchase Loving kale here's the link  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076DLCRW3

EPILOGUE

I held Kale's hand as we drove out to meet with his hale. “How many are in your hale?” I asked I wore a brave face but inside I was nervous. If Kale was the leader then that meant I would play an active role in his hale. I was worried that some wouldn't be happy he had matured with a human. I was also worried I would commit some Selkrian faux pas that would offend someone. “Well some are scattered throughout the state but there are about 100 living near the LaKai’s house. We own a very large community in this area and have been living here since we first came to earth”

“Wow that's more than I thought it would be.” I sighed as we pulled up to a high gate and Kale punched in a code that had the gates swinging open. “Don't worry” he squeezed my hand reassuringly “they will love you and I will be right by your side”  I smiled at him and looked out the window to take in my first look. The driveway we were on ended in a circular drive that was in front of a large house. The house was two stories and looked extravagant, made from red pine wood with granite accents.It had large windows big enough to allow for a lot of natural light to come in. The wraparound porch boasted several comfortable looking chairs and a few scattered tables. The house itself was surrounded by a well maintained lawn that had several flower patches here and there, and off to the side looked to be a fairly big garden. To the right side I could see another road leading to rows of houses which I assumed was where the other members of the hale lived.

I looked back at him impressed by the very scenic picture, I opened my mouth but then snapped it closed as I noticed the large crowd standing in front of the LaKai’s home. “Tell me you didn't assemble a welcoming committee!” I gasped. He had the audacity to laugh and I turned my head and speared him  with a look. He muffled his laugh and said “ I am sorry dear heart, but your friend suggested this would be better than meeting everyone one by one. She said it would be like ripping off a bandaid.” That traitor I spotted her at the front of the crowd a wide mischievous smile on her face. As we parked and got out of the car she came walking up to us and held her arms open wide “Mia!” I hugged her but hissed in her ear “Payback is a bitch on her period that is out of chocolate, be very afraid”

 

She laughed and leaning back pinched me on the cheek “ It just makes me so happy to see my bff living her best life!” she  pretended to wipe a tear “ I taught you so well!” I rolled my eyes and laughed along with her. Taking Kale’s hand with my bestie at my side I walked towards my future, smiling the whole way.

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