Imperfect Partners(20)

Eli beamed. “You have made a wise choice with the collar. It is one of my best pieces,” he said as he brought out the trays of mounted stones.

Conan chose a pair of tanzanite earrings set in gold and a small, round nostril adornment. While Eli took over showing baubles to Shedir and Guy, his assistants packaged Conan’s purchases in a shimmering, golden box.

* * * * *

“Our buying spree today should have filled Eli’s coffers nicely,” Shedir muttered as he and Guy made their way with Conan back to join their women. “But our mates should all be happy.”

Guy laughed. “A t least we got off more easily than Conan. Doreen and Cassie already have their collars. Plain ones. We didn’t get sucked in by Eli’s pitch that we should be upgrading them today.”

“Eli gave me a good price.” The collar’s delicate design and unique gems reminded him of Nebula, and the stones themselves seemed perfect considering his eunuch status. “It wouldn’t have mattered if he had charged me twice as much, though. I want the best for the woman who has agreed to be my mate. Now, if you will excuse me, I want to spend some time alone with Nebula.”

“Understood.” Shedir shot a glance toward Guy. “You and Nebula are welcome to join us in the public dungeon later, if you wish.” Conan shook both friends’ hands. Drawn by the prospect of seeing Nebula’s beautiful eyes sparkle with pleasure at his gifts, he took his leave and hurried up the stairs. She would never be alone again, and neither would he.