Page 59 of Klaz

“Actually,” Sophia said, “Nix, can you take over for a bit?” She called to a tall, pale Lyrikan, then winked at me. “I think we need to have a chat.”

Sophia grabbed a plate of cupcakes and gestured for me to follow her into the back. We settled at a small table in what looked like a break room.

“So,” Sophia said, pushing the cupcakes towards me. “Recently claimed?”

I nodded, running my fingers along the markings on my arm. “Yeah. It’s... a lot to take in.”

Sophia laughed. “Tell me about it. I remember when Makar first claimed me. The sensory overload alone took weeks to get used to.”

“Makar?” I asked, taking a bite of cupcake. The flavors exploded on my tongue, richer and more complex than anything I’d tasted before.

“My mate,” Sophia explained. “He’s... well, let’s just say he keeps busy.” She winked, and I got the distinct impression there was more to the story.

“Klaz is the same,” I said carefully. “Always running off to take care of ‘business.’”

We shared a knowing look, neither of us pushing for details.

“How long have you been mated?” I asked.

Sophia’s expression softened. “Almost two years now. Best decision I ever made, even if it does come with some... complications.”

I nodded, understanding all too well. “Klaz tried to push me away at first. Said it was too dangerous for me to be involved with him.”

Sophia rolled her eyes. “Vinduthi males and their protective streaks. Makar did the same thing. But they forget - we’re not exactly delicate flowers ourselves.”

I grinned. “Exactly. I told Klaz I could handle myself just fine.”

“Good for you,” Sophia said approvingly. “So, how’s he treating you? Besides the cupcakes, I mean.”

Warmth spread through my chest. “He’s... incredible. Protective, yes, but also kind. Gentle, when I need it. And he looks at me like...”

“Like you’re the most precious thing in the universe?” Sophia finished.

“Yeah,” I breathed. “Exactly like that.”

I took another bite of the heavenly cupcake, savoring the rich flavors. “These are incredible. I should bring some back for the other human mates on Caroma. They’d love a taste of home.”

Sophia’s eyes lit up. “Other human mates? On Caroma? I had no idea there was a community there.”

I nodded. “It’s small, but growing. We’re still figuring things out, you know?”

“That’s fascinating,” Sophia leaned forward, her excitement palpable. “You should meet the rest of us here on Thodos III. We have a little… support group of sorts. It helps to have others who understand what you’re going through.”

Before I could respond, the bakery’s door chimed. Klaz entered, his imposing figure drawing every eye in the room. But he wasn’t alone. Another Vinduthi male, equally impressive, followed close behind.

Sophia’s face lit up. “Makar!”

The second Vinduthi strode towards us, his presence commanding the space. Klaz followed, his eyes finding mine immediately. The intensity of his gaze sent a bolt of desire through me.

“Cinta,” Klaz said, his deep voice wrapping around my name like a caress. “I see you’ve met Sophia.”

I nodded, suddenly aware of how close he stood, the heat of his body radiating towards me. “She’s been telling me about the human mate community here.”

Makar moved to stand behind Sophia, one hand resting on her shoulder. “Why don’t we continue this conversation over dinner? The Black Star has a private room available.”

I glanced at Klaz, surprised. We hadn’t discussed dinner plans.

Klaz’s expression softened as he looked at me. “Actually, I have other plans for Cinta tonight. We have a reservation at the Nebula.”