Viper's Hope (Anguis Defenders Book 1)(91)

That was a very good day.

Viper and the other allies sent ships back to Earth. Only those who had been vaccinated went, so it was safe for them to land. They discovered that the Morbo virus had swarmed the planet in mass but had died off when their efforts to reproduce failed. Although Earth wasn't dying it was left in confusion and chaos by the attack. Earth was even more shocked to be 'invaded' again. But they needed help with clean-up in the confusing aftermath and humans were bound to learn eventually they weren't alone in the universe. It was best if they got over it and made friends because who knew what else lurked in the universe.

Hope shook her head. Such was the excitement that never seemed to cease. What the hell happened to her vacation all those many weeks ago when she was supposed to recharge and commune with nature.

Thankfully all was calm this evening.

Hope sat quietly with Viper at her side relaxing after dinner on the couch. Actually he'd been too quiet all day.

"Why are you so quiet?" Hope asked him as she studied his face.

Viper looked at her seriously, his brow creased. He seemed hesitant to tell her what was on his mind. Finally he sighed.

"I'm planning to announce that any colonist who wishes to return to Earth can do so starting as soon as this week."

That was a good thing so why was he so disturbed?

"And?" Hope pressed.

"And that also means that you and your family have the option to go home too." Viper looked so nervous he could puke.

What an idiot! Did he seriously think the only reason she was here, was because she didn't have some place better to go?

"You know maybe I should go home." Hope replied perturbed, then watched as Viper hung his head. "Because clearly my mate is a moron!"

Viper's head popped back up.

Hope stood up and looked down at him, which was more like eye level as tall as he was even seated. With her hands on her hips she lit into him.

"Seriously Viper!"

"I had to give you the option." He replied defensively.

"And you let it bother you all day long!"

"I'd do anything for you." He tried to reason.

Her sweet man would give her up if it would make her happy. Did he seriously think she'd be happy without his giant ass?

"So the trip takes six days, we'll go there on vacation!" Hope shook her head in amazement as Viper pulled her onto his lap, sniffed at her hair and rubbed against her neck. "I love you. Wherever you are is home." Hope sighed.

"Yes Amare. I'm sorry I worried for nothing."

"Well you can make it up to me." Hope wiggled on his crotch, feeling the hard bulge in his pants grow.



The next morning after the announcement was made, Hope was amazed at how many humans decided to stay on Anguis Minor. She was sad when JP opted to go home, but she understood. Tara, Faith and Cody wanted to wait till after the wedding to decide, giving them time to think about it. It was a big decision. Viper reassured everyone that no matter what they chose he would assure they could communicate and visit with Hope at anytime. God she loved their technology.



Viper

Viper stood up on the dais and looked out at the crowd. It was an exceptional day, not too hot. The daytime moon hung low, glowing a pale red. The birds twittered happily in the trees as if they too celebrated.

His fellow Anguis had come out in full force. The uncertainty regarding the humans had quickly morphed into a fondness that centered on his precious Hope. She'd become a symbol of hope not just for the people but for Viper as well.

Viper looked at his smiling parents with overwhelming joy. They were so much closer than he ever remembered them. They had been affectionate before, in a way that Anguis generally were, but now they couldn't seem to keep their hands to themselves. In his youth he would've found it disturbing.

Charity walked down the aisle wearing a pink dress, tossing out flowers. Little Justice followed holding a pillow with two rings. His head was held high and proud like a little mercenary.

When Viper looked up he saw the vision of a goddess.

Hope was robed in a diaphanous floor length white gown that pooled at her feet. A long swath of fabric trailed behind her. Hope's pale hair was pulled back, golden ringlets fell around her face, and atop her head was a crown of flowers. She was ethereal in her delicate shining beauty.

Viper almost stepped down and swept her up in his arms. When she reached his side and took his hand Viper had to resist kissing her full smiling lips. The temptation to run off with her slung over his shoulder was great.

Viper heard nothing of the traditional mating ceremony as the cleric spoke, he'd heard it all before, instead Viper stared at Hope. It wasn't until Justice was nudged forward with the rings that he snapped out of it. Hope took the large golden band and as she placed it on his finger she spoke.