Machine Metal Magic: Gay Sci-Fi Romance (Mind + Machine Book 1) by Hanna Dare

Author:Hanna Dare [Dare, Hanna]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Hanna Dare
Published: 2018-05-02T16:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER ELEVEN

It was fortunate Garcia’s quarters were only a few doors down from Rylan’s. He stumbled in his haste, discovering that his pants had managed to come undone. Rylan banged on the door, and quickly buttoned up.

“Go away,” came the muffled voice from the other side of the door. “I’ve had an emotionally taxing day.”

“Please, Captain,” Rylan called. “It’s—” His training was too strict to allow him to call it an emergency. He looked at the front of his pants. “It’s urgent. Really, really urgent.”

There was a groan, both from Garcia and from the door, as various bolts were undone. The captain opened the door slightly and leaned against it. His hair was dishevelled and his eyes red-rimmed.

“What is it, Rylan?”

“It’s about Jaime,” Rylan said. “He’s not really a prisoner anymore, is he? I mean, I know there was talk early on about limited partnerships and guest with restrictions, but that was just a fancy way of saying we were holding him, or he didn’t have any choice.”

Garcia frowned and rubbed a hand over his face. “Is Jaime still concerned? Do I need to talk to him about his role onboard?”

“No, it’s more me. I need some… clarification.”

The captain’s frown grew deeper and he seemed to take in Rylan’s appearance, looking him up and down. He shook his head. “First of all, you are aware that love is the most destructive force in the universe? Forget killer robots and genocidal AIs. It’s the heart that will tear you up and empty you out, right down to the marrow of your bones. Every time.”

“Yes, sir.” Rylan was beginning to suspect Garcia had gotten into the wine.

“But far be it from me to deny anyone the brief illusion of happiness before that inevitable betrayal.” Garcia sighed. “So, yes. Or I mean, no, Jaime is not a prisoner on this ship. He’s proved his worth several times over, and likely saved me from a painful death. I consider him a member of this crew, and tomorrow I’ll make it official. Sign the log books, put him down for a full share. He can stay with us for as long as he wants.”

Rylan breathed out. “Yes, sir. Thank you, sir. I mean, it’s good to have that settled.”

“For clarity’s sake, I’m sure.” He gave a salute so sarcastic that for once Rylan didn’t have to stop himself from returning it. “Carry on. And don’t make too much noise. I’m going to be crying myself to sleep.”

Garcia shut the door and Rylan spun on his heel, all but sprinting back to his quarters.

He flung open the door to find Jaime where he’d left him, looking confused but now also somewhat pissed off.

“So where the hell did you—”

It took Rylan less than half a stride to reach him and snatch him up in his arms. He felt Jaime’s legs wrap around him. “I just needed make sure this was okay.”

“How about asking me?”

“Is it?” Their mouths were so close, and Jaime clutched him so tightly, Rylan could only gasp.

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