Chapter 33: Confession.

KNEELING ON PINK Nebos on the Dagerstanteen ship, Ike braided Render’s hair, winding gems in the strands.

“Thank you for doing this. I promise it’s the last time I ask.” Render was sure he could make that promise. Soon he would be with Daris, and the alien liked to braid his hair.

“I get it.” Ike laughed. “You want to look good for Daris.”

Render didn’t deny it. His fire crackled with a shy confession of his need to ...