“Wait, Jade.”
Luke’s disappointment made it hard to be near him. Every member of an expedition had to partner with another before leaving. We signed contracts for reproduction, with the idea of forming a viable colony. Passion did not enter into it, although some of the couples had married for love on Devon and volunteered together.
The last thing I expected was for Luke to fall in love with me. He was a geologist and pilot. I chose him for his intelligence and practicality. Since arriving, I had not only failed to become pregnant, but his touch closed me up tight. Shira danced in my dreams, sleeping and waking.
“I have to see the book.”
“It’s like you’re not here, Jade.”
“I have work, Luke, and I enjoy the hunting.”
He looked over my head. “Stay with me tonight.”
I let him embrace
