Page 74 of Her Alien Owner

"People like you," he replies, his eyes softening as he looks at me. "You’re part of the reason Armstrong is healing."

"Me? I’m just one person."

"One person who’s made a difference." His hand brushes against mine, sending a shiver up my spine. "Never underestimate your impact."

We fall into a comfortable silence, watching as birds skim the surface of the water. It’s hard to believe this serene scene was once marred by war and pollution. Armstrong’s recoverymirrors our own journey—fraught with challenges but worth every effort.

"I think it’s more than just the cleanup," I muse aloud.

"Oh?"

"It’s about rebuilding trust, too. Among people, communities... even between us."

Valen nods slowly. "You’re right. Trust is fragile but powerful when it’s earned."

"Like how you’ve shown me," I say softly, feeling the weight of my words settle between us.

He shifts closer, his arm wrapping around my shoulders. "I’ll keep showing you every day."

I lean into him, feeling his strength and warmth envelop me. The lake reflects our intertwined figures, and for a moment, everything feels perfect.

"I love this place," I whisper.

"Me too," he says, his voice tinged with something deeper than just affection for the scenery. "It’s become home because of you."

We share a tender kiss, sealing our connection in this peaceful moment. The world around us may still bear scars from its past, but here by the lake, it feels like anything is possible.

As we pull apart, Valen grins at me mischievously. "Ready to swim?"

I raise an eyebrow. "You first," I challenge.

Without hesitation, he stands and strips off his shirt, revealing his muscular form bathed in golden sunlight. With a wink, he dives into the clear water.

I watch him for a second before following suit, laughter bubbling up as I splash into the lake after him. Together, we swim in the crystal-clear water that symbolizes our shared hope for Armstrong and our future.

Life has thrown its worst at us, but here we are—surviving and thriving side by side. And in moments like this, it’s easy to believe that love really can conquer all.

As we dry off together, the sun continues to warm our skin, the lake's gentle waves lapping in the background. I wrap the towel around my shoulders, stealing glances at Valen. His golden skin glistens, droplets catching in the light like tiny jewels. He catches me staring and raises an eyebrow.

"Something on your mind?" he asks, a smirk tugging at his lips.

"Just thinking," I reply, attempting nonchalance. "About the future."

He sits down beside me on the blanket, his eyes searching mine. "The future, huh? Got something specific in mind?"

"Well," I begin, feeling my cheeks warm despite the cool breeze, "you mentioned wanting children once."

He nods slowly. "I did. And I still do."

"How soon do you think you'd like to start trying?"

Valen tilts his head, considering my question carefully. "That depends," he says finally. "When would you like to?"

His answer makes me smile—he's always been considerate of my feelings. "I want to start growing our family within the year," I say, watching his reaction closely. "But only after my community library program is finished. My mom said the first few months really knock you out, and I don't want to be out of commission when we're so close to the finish line."

He nods, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Sounds like a good plan," he agrees. "You’ve put so much into that program; it deserves your full attention until it's done."

Relief floods through me, and I can't help but throw my arms around him. "Thank you for understanding," I whisper against his chest.