Taming a Healer: 3 (Galactic Lust) by Kathleen Lash Read Free Book Online

origin. “It’s similar to when I found her lying at
Markum’s feet. Perhaps she brings the strangeness out in me. I’ll be more
careful of my actions.”
    “Don’t bother on my account, friend. It’s simply unusual to
see you act more like one of the norms .”
    Gabriel glared. “As if that would ever happen.” The
tension dissipated and he lightened his hold on Sadie.
    Nolan stroked her hair, letting the shiny strands slide from
his fingers. “I didn’t think it possible, but she’s grown more beautiful.”
    “I’m not surprised. Her matron was an exceptional woman. It
stands to reason Sadie would inherit some of her characteristics. Long, lithe
and strong, appearing able to bear any weight.”
    “Mysterious and knowing, having the ability to care despite
what’s happened.” Nolan stroked her cheek. “She remains beautiful inside and
out.”
    Gabriel reminisced for a moment before saying, “Her eyes
shine with compassion and forgiveness.”
    “She’s still precious.”
    He brushed some grains of sand from her arm. “I wonder if
she ever smiles like she used to.”
    Nolan’s gaze seemed distant, as if focused on a memory.
“With that combination of mischief and innocence? No single rough instance in
her life could’ve stripped away that smile forever.”
    “You’ve seen it?” Gabriel waited expectantly for a reply.
    “No.”
    Gabriel lowered his gaze.
    “Consider her circumstances lately. I’m sure prior to the
creatures taking hold of Natura, she found many reasons to smile. Besides,
Handler Rush assured us she’d completely recovered.”
    “I hope her unease is due to her current dilemma and my presence.
The thought of her never moving beyond what happened still bothers me.”
    Nolan said a moment later, “Lay her down. You rest as well.
I’ll stand watch.”
    “As long as I’m able, I’ll hold her. Perhaps if I make her
feel safe while she sleeps, she’ll forgive me.”
    Nolan patted his shoulder and stood. “She’s forgiven you
already. She would’ve never laid a hand on you otherwise. That’s another reason
you had to come here, isn’t it? You wanted to die knowing she no longer hated
or blamed you.”
    Gabriel repositioned her until she appeared comfortable.
Nolan placed a blanket over her. There was no need to answer Nolan’s question.
They both knew why Gabriel had come back to Natura. He wanted Sadonia Allissa
Meadows to be one of the last things he’d see in his short lifespan. Merely
being in her presence eased the burden of guilt he’d carried for years.
    Eventually, Nolan walked to the entrance of the cave while
Gabriel remained seated with Sadie in his lap. Having her cuddled against his
chest flooded him with memories. The day of the assault came to mind. The
nightmare of events still bothered him. He pondered various scenarios.
    What could I have done differently?
    They’d been returning from a trip to the river. Sadie wasn’t
permitted to venture beyond the compound by herself. More often than not,
either he or Nolan would provide an escort. Most of the time, they both
traveled with her.
    She’d grown, matured, and the differences in her thought
processes and body were remarkable. She’d stumbled and he caught her. Before he
understood what’d happened, she’d turned in his arms. She’d stepped close,
directly against him and her body melded down the entire length of his. Her
palm flattened against his nape. Stupidly, he’d allowed her to pull his face
close to hers. She kissed him tentatively as their bodies fused.
    Her silent offer hastened his blood. She’d chosen him,
wanted him and he’d reacted. Despite training, regardless of orders, he
couldn’t slow the rush of blood, the surge of desire and the nearly
overpowering urge to push her down onto the lush grass and take her virginity.
    He held her tight, pulled her hips against his as he mated
her mouth. A flood of lust overtook him.
    She’s not of age. I mustn’t take her. Only women