Page 78 of My Tiny Giant

“Would they leave Earth to be closer to you here?”

That was a largely rhetorical question on his part, of course—my own time in this part of the Galaxy was limited.

“Our contract with the Voranians ends in a few weeks. Even if it gets extended, I’m here only temporarily.” I’d been looking forward to eventually going home. This time, the thought of it filled me with unexpected sadness. Leaving Tragul meant saying goodbye to Agan for good. “In theory, yes,” I cleared my throat. “I believe my parents are adventurous enough to consider moving planets. They’re both retired, now. Mom used to be a seamstress. Dad is ex-military. He was the reason I went to the academy. I wanted to be just like him, and I wouldn’t let my size or my gender hold me back.” I met his gaze. “No matter what anyone did or said about it.”

“I feel sorry for anyone who’d ever tried to stop you from doing the job you love, including myself,” he laughed.

“Well, you’ve turned around. Kind of.”

He rubbed his forehead.

“To be honest, I’m still in shock. Every time I see you in action, I’m surprised all over again. But I can’t deny your abilities. If that’s what you want to do, then the army is where you belong.”

“So, warfare could be a woman’s job after all?” I asked, tilting my head.

“I can’t speak for all women, but it certainly is your job, and you’re magnificent at it. I can’t take my eyes off you in a fight,” he said with clear admiration on his face.

“You like watching me kick ass?” I wiggled my eyebrows, smiling.

“Actually, when I see you fighting a male twice your size, I’m torn between an utter terror and awe. At the same time...the sight of you in action turns me on,” he added, with a soft groan.

I nearly choked on the next piece of ozeah with a chuckle.

“What about it do you find so sexy? Is it the way I kick my legs or the way I use my blades?”

He leaned forward, folding his arms on the table. His eyes—of the same vivid color as the vines around us—stopped on me. The smile was completely gone from them, now.

“It’s the way you are, Emma. Every single thing about you is remarkable.”

I’d never would’ve guessed it when I first met him, but Agan turned out to be a perfect date. Not only was he great in bed but he was also capable of leading an intimate, meaningful conversation. No wonder that our Valentine’s date had stretched for days now, and I had no desire to end it.

The time spent with him was easy and comfortable. It felt natural, as if we’d been together forever.

As if we belonged together.

Chapter 16