Lirien's POV
I lay in Vael's bed for a long time after he left. The room felt too quiet. Too big.
My body was still sore in places that reminded me of everything we did last night. I touched my neck where he had kissed me and felt a strange warmth in my chest. It wasn't just the heat anymore. I actually liked him. That scared me more than hiding on this ship.
I couldn't just stay in bed all day. I got up slowly and looked around his quarters. The room was neat and organized, like a true captain's space. On the desk, I saw a small hologram frame. I touched it and a photo appeared Vael standing with an older woman, smiling. He looked younger and happier in the picture.
Was that his mother?
I felt bad for looking, but I was curious. Who was this man who had knotted me and then spoke so gently in the morning?
I opened a small drawer and found an old metal dog tag with his name on it. There were also a few medals for bravery. Vael was not just a strict captain. He had a real past.
Suddenly, the ship's alarm beeped twice. Not loud, but enough to make me jump. A calm voice came from the speakers:
"Routine security sweep on Deck 3. All crew remain at stations."
My heart started beating fast. Deck 3 was close to us. What if they checked the captain's quarters? I quickly fixed the bed and hid my torn clothes under the blanket. I was still wearing Vael's big black shirt. It reached my thighs and smelled like him.
I walked to the big window and looked out at the stars. The ship was moving so smoothly, but inside me everything felt messy. I had run away from a forced mating back home, only to end up knotted by a stranger the very next day. And the worst part? I wanted to see him again.
A soft knock came at the door.
I froze.
Three slow knocks.
My stomach dropped. Vael said no one could open the door, but what if it was important? What if someone knew I was here?
I stayed completely still and held my breath. After a few seconds, the person walked away. I let out a long sigh and sat on the floor with my back against the wall.
This was dangerous. If they caught me, Vael could lose everything. But when I thought about leaving, my heart hurt. Last night he made me feel wanted. Safe. Not like a problem to be sold off.
I got up and found some food packets in the small kitchen corner. I ate slowly while thinking. Maybe I could stay hidden for a few more days until the ship reached the next planet. Then I could disappear quietly.
But deep down, I already knew I didn't want to disappear.
The door suddenly opened. I jumped back in fear, but it was only Vael. He stepped inside quickly and locked the door behind him. His face looked tired but soft when he saw me.
"You're still here," he said, almost like he was relieved.
"I didn't know where else to go," I answered honestly.
He walked over and gently touched my cheek. "Good. I was worried the whole morning." He paused, then added, "There's a security sweep happening on the lower decks. Someone reported seeing an unknown person yesterday. We need to be more careful."
I nodded. My hands were shaking a little.
Vael noticed. He pulled me into a hug and rubbed my back slowly. "I won't let anything happen to you, Lirien. But we have to make a plan. You can't stay locked in this room forever."
I hugged him back tightly, breathing in his warm scent.
For the first time since I stowed away, I didn't feel completely alone.
But I also knew our little safe world could break at any moment.