Viper's Hope (Anguis Defenders Book 1)(50)

"Of course. We are blessed indeed. Your mother and I are here primarily to show a united front when you land with the first group. Although we must maintain order at home, holding the Morbo at bay is a primary concern."

"So what's the plan?"

"We need to introduce your mate to the public when we land tomorrow on Anguis Minor."

"Alright."

Viper wasn't really sure how that would go over with the public, or with Hope.

"We generally awaken the refugees shortly after we land but is it wise in this case?"

"Once we land we need to proceed, it can't be avoided. We don't want to appear as if the Purists have altered the course we know to be just." Adder rubbed his chin contemplating every angle.

Viper and Adder both felt strongly that it was their duty to stop the Morbo and help other species in their time of need. Though the Anguis had lost a catastrophic number to the plague, and they considered themselves lucky compared to other races. If they did nothing the Morbo would turn into an unstoppable scourge across the universe, annihilating all of creation as they knew it.

"I agree we should get the humans settled as soon as possible, but can it wait a few more days? On last report there weren't enough volunteers and workers to make the revival process go as smoothly as I'd like." Viper reported.

Not only was Adder his father, but his superior in matters of state.

"I understand. Do not fear, despite the Purists, our people do a good job coming to the aid of others. I have no doubt you will have the numbers you need to assist you shortly after we land. For the most part the people have seen the benefit of this cause and the allies it has gained us. It's just a shame that there are always those selfish few."

"I am worried how Hope will be treated." Viper admitted his concern.

There would undoubtedly be many people who didn't agree with the Purists but who would still look unfavorably on their new Uxorem because she was a foreign race.

"One day at a time my filius. That is why your mother and I are here. Why don't you go get some rest." Adder chuckled. "I will see you at first meal."

Viper smiled back. They both knew he might be a bit late if he was lucky.



Hope

Hope stood in the shower soaking up the warm water. She was so giddy she debated calling her friends, but it was too late and tomorrow would be a crazy day since they were landing on an alien planet.

Tara had asked Viper to help awaken and transition her fellow rescued humans and he agreed. Tara and JP were ecstatic at the prospect. They had already been helping out quite a lot.

Besides being sexy and funny, Viper was proving to be very considerate and intelligent too. She appreciated how he included her friends and made them feel welcome. He was nothing like one of those chocolates you got from a heart-shaped box that looked yummy on the outside but tasted like toothpaste on the inside, leaving you disappointed. No he was more like Godiva, pure decadence.

Hope didn't know why she was so surprised. Maybe it was the way things had started out between them. It wasn't the most ideal way she could imagine beginning a relationship, then again what in life was ever ideal. Sometimes wonderful things came unexpectedly knocking on your door and if you didn't take advantage they passed you by.

Viper certainly was doing his damnedest to make amends. Besides redecorating their bedroom and taking her on little dates around the ship. He'd even come through with his promise to find her friends and family. Hope felt more than a little gratitude for the man. Maybe that was why she'd been so adamant this evening, insisting he join her in bed, despite her reservations.

No it was more than that.

It wasn't just gratitude or physical attraction that had her swooning. The sex had been mind blowing, better than she remembered, especially now that she didn't fear him. Though Hope had to admit there was something darkly erotic about being possessed by Viper while he was overcome with a hunger only she inspired. Just thinking about the way he hunched over her, caging her body as he thrust into her had Hope shuttering. Even when she'd ridden him, he'd bucked like a wild bronco between her thighs.

Unfortunately their play time had been cut embarrassingly short. Hope still couldn't believe she'd been so sassy to Viper's father. He was the ruler of several planets for Christ sake. "Ugh!" She'd eventually have to meet him face to face. "Too bad that's what happens when you bully your way in to a grown man's room!"

Hopefully that won't become a habit. Hope straightened her shoulders and refused to be embarrassed as she walked into the bedroom.

Hope stretched out on the bed naked, to let her hair finish drying au natural after her shower. Her skin was still warm not just from the long shower but the lingering sensation of Viper's touch. She wondered if the hormones that told Viper she was his mate, didn't also work on her. They certainly seemed to.