Page 67 of Her Alien Owner
I nod slowly, trying to imagine what that would look like for us. “So, what kind of customs are we talking about?”
He looks thoughtful for a moment. “There’s an exchange of vows under the stars—symbolizing our connection to the cosmos and each other. We also exchange tokens, something meaningful to both of us.”
“That sounds beautiful,” I say, envisioning the ceremony under a sky full of stars much like tonight’s.
Valen squeezes my hands gently. “We can incorporate human traditions too if you’d like. It’s about making it special for us.”
“I’d love that,” I reply, my heart warming at the thought of blending our worlds together. "I've always wanted to wear a white dress like my mom. And carry a bouquet."
“Good,” he says with a nod. “Then let’s start planning.” He looks at me with such intensity that it feels like the whole universe is centered around this moment.
We talk late into the night, discussing details and dreams for our future ceremony. Valen shares more about kilgari traditions while I describe human weddings—how they can be grand or intimate, traditional or modern.
“What about music?” I ask suddenly. “Do kilgari have special songs for these ceremonies?”
He chuckles softly. “Music isn’t typically part of the ritual, but we can add it if you’d like.”
I smile at his willingness to adapt and include parts of my culture in our celebration. It feels like another layer of connection between us.
By the time we finally decide to head back inside, I feel an overwhelming sense of contentment and anticipation for our future together. As we walk hand-in-hand back to the estate, I know that whatever challenges come our way, we’ll face them together—forever united as mates under the stars.
The morning light filters through the large windows of Valen’s study, casting a warm glow on the room's polished surfaces. He stands behind his desk, a holographic display flickering with charts and graphs.
“Ariana,” he calls, his voice carrying a blend of authority and warmth. “Join me.”
I step into the study, my curiosity piqued. “What’s this about?”
“I want you to be more involved in my business,” he says, motioning for me to sit next to him. “Today, we’re discussingthe local mining industry and how it benefits Armstrong’s economy.”
I settle into the chair beside him, feeling both honored and nervous. “Alright, I’m listening.”
He points to a section of the holographic display. “Armstrong’s mines are rich with minerals crucial for interplanetary trade. They drive our economy, creating jobs and encouraging commerce with other planets.”
“Sounds important,” I say, trying to absorb the information.
“It is.” He nods. “But it’s not without challenges. The war left many mines in disrepair. Rebuilding them requires investment and strategic planning.” He glances at me, his green eyes sharp yet inviting. “Which brings me to this.”
He taps on another section of the display, revealing his investment portfolio.
“These are my current investments,” he explains. “Each one carefully chosen to maximize returns while supporting Armstrong’s recovery.”
I lean closer, studying the intricate details. “This is... impressive.”
“It’s more than just numbers,” he says softly. “It’s about rebuilding a future for this planet.” He turns to face me fully. “And I want you to be part of that future.”
“Me?” I ask, my voice a mix of surprise and disbelief.
“Yes, you.” He reaches into his desk drawer and pulls out a small data pad, handing it to me. “I’ve allocated some funds for you to invest as you see fit.”
My eyes widen as I take the data pad from him. “Valen... I don’t know what to say.”
“Say you’ll give it a try,” he replies with a faint smile. “Trust your instincts.”
I look down at the data pad, feeling the weight of his trust in me. An idea sparks in my mind—something close to my heart.
“There’s a bakery in town,” I begin hesitantly. “They’ve been struggling but have plans to expand their business.”
Valen raises an eyebrow. “A bakery?”