Star-Crossed Read online

  Praise for the writing of Cyndi Friberg

  Ontarian Chronicles 3: City of Tears

  WOW! Ontarian Chronicles 3: City of Tears by Cyndi Friberg is one amazing blend of science fiction at its best and romance at its hottest with some paranormal bits thrown in for interest. Again, Ms. Friberg creates a single, seamless integrated plot incorporating both science fiction and romance without sacrificing the importance or beauty of either.

  -- Keely Skillman, EcataRomance Reviews

  Lyrik and Saebin are fascinating futuristic characters with emotional hang-ups that made their path to falling in love thoroughly enjoyable… For the Sci-Fi enthusiasts this story is perfect and for those new to the genre this is a wonderful introduction.

  -- Sin St. Luke, Just Erotic Romance Reviews

  This is a complex and thought-provoking read. Last in the Ontarian series, I read it as a stand-alone and it stood its own ground. The setting is multi-layered and well thought-out, the cast broad and well choreographed.

  -- TeeBee, Enchanted Ramblings

  A cast of colorful characters makes this final chapter of the Chronicle series well worth taking the time to read. Ms Friberg has written another great tale of romance mixed with loads of danger and has come out with another winner. Definitely, a fast paced exciting story.

  -- Matilda, Coffee Time Romance

  Ontarian Chronicles 3: City of Tears is now available from Loose Id.

  STAR-CROSSED

  Cyndi Friberg

  www.loose-id.com

  Warning

  This e-book contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language and may be considered offensive to some readers. Loose Id e-books are for sale to adults ONLY, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.

  * * * * *

  This book contains explicit sexual content and graphic language.

  Star-Crossed

  Cyndi Friberg

  This e-book is a work of fiction. While reference might be made to actual historical events or existing locations, the names, characters, places and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

  Published by

  Loose Id LLC

  1802 N Carson Street, Suite 212-2924

  Carson City NV 89701-1215

  www.loose-id.com

  Copyright © August 2006 by Cyndi Friberg

  All rights reserved. This copy is intended for the purchaser of this e-book ONLY. No part of this e-book may be reproduced or shared in any form, including, but not limited to printing, photocopying, faxing, or emailing without prior written permission from Loose Id LLC.

  ISBN 978-1-59632-320-9

  Available in Adobe PDF, HTML, MobiPocket, and MS Reader

  Printed in the United States of America

  Editor: Maryam Salim

  Cover Artist: Scott Carpenter

  www.loose-id.com

  Book 1:

  The Misadventures of

  Dro Tar Nex

  Prologue

  Dro Tar Nex leaned her shoulder against the cool bulkhead in the commander’s cabin and watched the argument escalate. The ship had been orbiting Rodymia for almost a full lunar cycle and still Kort agreed to wait.

  “He’s playing you for a fool, commander.” The subtle mockery in Evan’s tone was sure to get fists flying. Broad shouldered yet lean, Evan stood half a head taller than the Linusian. “This is the third time Stromn postponed the exchange. He has no intention of dealing with you.”

  Kort’s beady eyes narrowed and the green tinge of his skin deepened. “If you don’t like it, get the hell off my ship.”

  Dro Tar crossed her arms over her chest as tension expanded within her. They needed Kort. The obnoxious Linusian was their only hope of finding Stromn, and apprehending Stromn was their primary objective. Stromn headed a ruthless network of smugglers that had recently expanded operations into Ontarian space. Dro Tar understood Evan’s frustration. Kort needed a push or they would be stuck on his ship until the Day Moon turned to dust. Still, the Linusian could be unpredictable.

  “Maybe you’re satisfied with these dead end runs.” Evan paused, challenge gleaming in his lime green eyes. “But I need something more lucrative. Stromn is never going to take us seriously when you let him push you around.”

  Kort laughed, the sound harsh and brittle. “You’re going to teach me how to be assertive? You can’t even control your woman.”

  “What’s between me and my woman has nothing --”

  “The crew is begging for permission to tame her.” Kort sneered. “If you can’t make her obey, I’ll give her to someone who can.”

  The men glared at each other. Dro Tar felt their hostility like a gravity accelerator. Tingling heat burst low in her belly as she stared at Evan’s chiseled profile. Kort’s blunt features, on the other hand, sent chills skittering down her spine. She’d suspected it would come to this, had agreed to sleep with Evan if the situation made sex unavoidable. Anticipation had been sizzling between them for days, distracting them from their duties. Maybe it was better to get it over with.

  Are you sure you’re ready? Evan’s voice sounded in her mind. This was the first time she’d worked with a Mystic operative. She wasn’t used to voices erupting in her head. He could only hear her thoughts when he intentionally created a telepathic link. The channel was obviously open now.

  What choice do we have? she responded. He’s testing you.

  “The cabins are monitored,” Evan said to Kort. “She won’t perform for an audience.” He pushed his fingers through his hair, sending the blond waves into appealing disarray.

  “And I won’t take advice from a pussy-whipped Ontarian.”

  Leaning forward, Evan brought his face within inches of Kort’s. “I’ll take care of my woman if you arrange a meeting with Stromn.”

  “You take care of your woman, or I’ll show you what women are for.” Turning his head, Kort swept Dro Tar’s body with a lecherous glance.

  Evan shoved Kort back and crossed the cabin. Fight. If you suddenly give in, it will seem suspicious. He closed his hand around her upper arm.

  She jerked out of his light grasp. “If anyone touches me, I’ll show them what my knife is for.”

  Grabbing her with both hands, Evan pulled her against his chest. “Kort’s right. I’ve indulged you long enough.” He bent and shoved his shoulder into her belly, easily lifting her off the floor. She kicked and squirmed, until he banded her legs with his arm. Snatching her knife from the sheath strapped to her thigh, he tossed the weapon to Kort. The Linusian gasped, but managed to catch the weapon. “No more excuses. Contact Stromn.” He stormed from the cabin before Kort could reply.

  Dro Tar shoved against Evan’s back. He smacked her on the butt. “This is not going to happen,” she yelled. “I saw you with your hand down Lissa’s pants.”

  “Her hand was down my pants and that’s as far as it went. I told you that three weeks ago.”

  “Why the hell should I believe you?”

  Several crewmembers chuckled as they passed, but Evan entered their cabin before he replied. “Have I ever lied to you?” He slid her down against his body until her feet touched the floor.

  “How would I know?” She struggled against his hold, glaring up at him. “I trusted you until I found you with --”

  “Nothing happened!” He pushed her back and pinned her against the wall with the weight of his body. His hands framed her face. “I’m tired of aching, nephri. Look me in the eyes and tell me you don’t want me any more.” She’d never heard the strange
word, but his tone caressed it, made her certain it was an endearment.

  She stared into his smoldering gaze and felt her insides melt. They might not be long time lovers as they were pretending, but attraction had sparked between them from the very start. His confidence appealed to her. His sense of humor kept her from going insane. Pretending she wanted nothing to do with him had been harder than surrendering to desire. Licking her lips, she lowered her gaze to his mouth. Finally, she’d feel the heat of those sensual lips.

  “You’re still an arrogant jerk,” she whispered.

  He chuckled. “I can work with that.”

  His mouth covered hers and he pulled her away from the wall, pressing her tightly against his body. With frantic urgency they touched each other, too impatient to fully undress. He slipped his hand beneath her uniform top and unfastened her undergarment, freeing her breasts for his eager exploration.

  She tugged his shirt up and found bare skin, stroking his back and sides with ravenous hunger. She’d dreamed of this, imagined their joining, yet he’d seemed reluctant to touch her.

  I knew they’d watch us. I didn’t want to put you through that. Even in her mind his voice sounded breathless and edgy.

  I don’t care. I want this; I want you.

  He drew her breath into his mouth and traced her lower lip with his tongue. His hand cupped her breast, his thumb teasing her nipple. I don’t want to share this with them. I want --

  They can only intrude if we let them. Look at me. Think only of me.

  Sweeping her into his arms, he placed her in the middle of the bunk and quickly undressed before joining her. “I’ve missed you,” he whispered as he pulled her uniform top off over her head, then tossed her support garment aside. She sat, exploring his broad chest as he knelt between her legs. His body was masculine perfection -- lean, toned, tightly contained strength. She squeezed his thick upper arms and broad shoulders. Her pulse raced as each touch brought them closer to fulfillment.

  He touched her with reverent care, his hands skimming her fevered skin. His patience tormented her, coiling tension between her spread thighs. She trailed her fingers downward, reaching for his thick shaft, anxious to feel his hardness and his heat.

  “Not yet.” Grasping her wrists, he guided her hands to the bed behind her, arching her back provocatively. He bent to her breasts, capturing one nipple between his teeth, while he firmly rolled the other.

  Each touch, each nibble wound the coil tighter. She squeezed her eyes shut blinded by desire. Her legs trembled and her core pulsed. She needed him there, needed him now! “Please.” The word escaped on a ragged gasp. Weeks of anticipation and the ever present sense of danger sharpened her emotions and fueled the flames.

  “Lie back.” The husky command robbed her of strength, made her hot and boneless. He tugged off her boots and unfastened her pants. She raised her hips so he could finish undressing her. “You made me wait. Don’t think this is going to be easy.” She trembled at the tender threat, reminded of their unwanted audience. “Open your eyes. Look at me. Think only of me.” The possessive passion gleaming in his gaze took her breath away. This was more than a mission. The emotions etched in his face were stark, elemental, real. “Raise your arms above your head and leave them there or I’ll bind you.”

  She obeyed, her gaze locked on his passion flushed face. He touched her boldly now, building her need to the edge of orgasm only to pause and refuse her release. After lavishing attention on her nipples, he wandered across her quivering abdomen. He scooted down, forcing her legs wide to accommodate his shoulders.

  Her lids started to droop as the throbbing became painful. “Look at me.” Their gazes collided and he pushed two fingers into her core. She cried out, arching off the bed.

  “Please.”

  He flicked his tongue across her clit twice then grinned. “You refused me for weeks. Why should I show mercy?”

  “I thought ... I’m sorry. Please stop teasing me.”

  Dragging his fingers nearly out of her slick passage, he narrowed his gaze and covered her clit with his thumb. “I like teasing you. I like hearing you beg. Beg some more. Beg me to taste you.”

  A hard, needful spasm constricted her inner muscles, while tenderness softened her heart. “Please taste me. Fill me with your tongue.” She’d never wanted anything more, needed anyone so desperately. He parted her folds with his fingers and traced her slit over and over. She bucked and swayed, trying to bring his tongue into contact with her aching clit. He was punishing her for her stubbornness, she understood that, but a certain gleam in his eyes warned her that this was not all for show. Evan intended to devour her, claim her, overwhelm her in ways she had yet to imagine.

  He pressed his lips against her, sinking his tongue deep. She gritted her teeth and whimpered, sensations welling up in her. His warm hands on her thighs, his intimate kiss, his gaze burned into hers; it was more than she could take. She cried out sharply and came in hard, shuddering waves.

  Prolonging the distinct spasms with his clever tongue, Evan dragged every last tingle from her body before he raised his head. “Turn over.”

  Lethargic and replete from the shattering orgasm, she didn’t move fast enough. He flipped her over onto her stomach, then pulled her hips up until she understood what he wanted. She folded her legs beneath her, resting on her knees. He nudged her thighs apart and entered her in one forceful drive.

  She cried out, surprised by his sudden aggression and the stunning fullness of his thick length within her. He reached around and found her swollen clit, pairing each deep thrust with a circular motion until she was gasping and rocking to meet him.

  “Mine.” He growled the word against her hair, his hands firm on her hips. “Say it, nephri. Say you’re mine.”

  Her body squeezed him greedily as he pounded into her. The intensity built. Her heart pounded against her ribs.

  “Say it!” He increased his speed and force until she cried out with each demanding thrust.

  “I’m -- yours.” A pulse of Mystic energy burst from him and she screamed. He buried himself to the hilt, his arm wrapped around her hips. Wave after scalding wave crashed over them, sweeping them beyond the ship, beyond the danger, beyond reality.

  They clung to each other; their harsh gasps the only sound. Wrapping her tightly in his arms, he rolled them to their sides, his body still lodged deep within hers. He pressed kisses against her neck and shoulder, one of his hands cupping her breast.

  “What does nephri mean?” she whispered.

  “It’s an ancient Mystic term.” His warm breath teased her ear. “It means beloved.”

  Chapter One

  Mist rolled across the rutted path and Dro Tar squinted into the darkness. A soft keening drew her attention to the castle looming in the distance. She inhaled deeply, savoring the fresh scent of pine and the complexity of smoke and roasting meat. A cool gust made her shiver as clouds obscured the moon.

  A well-muscled arm encircled her waist, trapping her hands at her sides. She struggled. Her captor tightened his grip, pressing against her back. Heat sank through her clothing and his scent, an intoxicating combination of leather, exotic spices, and musk, enveloped her. She sighed, relaxing in his embrace. He gathered her hair away from the nape of her neck and pressed his mouth to her sensitive skin. Warmth, pressure, moisture, his kiss held the perfect combination of each. He scraped his teeth over her flesh and cupped her breast.

  “Did you honestly think you could elude me so easily?” A faint accent colored his words, but his tone was thin and nasal.

  “Pause program.” She wiggled out of the vampire’s embrace and crossed her arms over her chest. His appearance was perfect. Midnight-black hair with just a hint of curl, broad chest, narrow hips, and long-fingered hands. Light flashed on in the adjacent room allowing her to see her business partner. Grat Farlay stood at the control panel, clearly frustrated by yet another delay. “So, shoot me.” She motioned toward the vampire. “His voice is still wrong. It
needs to be deeper. Vampires can seduce with a word, curl a woman’s toes by whispering her name. John here needs a decongestant.”

  “Deeper is a bit too vague,” Grat muttered. “Tone, pitch, inflection, cadence. Where do I begin? I need an audio sample, a starting point.”

  “End simulation.” The holographic projection dissolved leaving her in a bare room with the robot she’d named John Doe. “Go charge up. We’ll play some more later.” John moved to the far corner of the simulation booth and backed against the wall, engaging his charger prongs. Dro Tar left the sim booth and joined Grat at the control console. “The atmosphere is perfect. We’re stimulating all five senses. John’s AI integration has never been more convincing, but that voice has got to go.”

  “I’ll move on to the bedroom sequence and you go find me a voice.”

  She nodded and crossed the lab, her mind rushing on ahead. Sam Elliot had the rich depth she craved, but how would Grat filter out that drawl? Taking the corridor to the left, she headed for the tiny office in the back of their ramshackle building. Sean Connery wasn’t much better. Who ever heard of a Scottish vampire?

  “Hello, Ms. Nex.” The deep male voice came from directly behind her and tingles danced down her spine. “You were surprisingly hard to find.”

  She recognized Trey dar Aune with the second sentence, but for just a moment she was back in the simulation booth. “Say it again.” She didn’t turn around.

  “You were hard as hell to find?”

  “No, the first part and say it in that hushed, sort of growly tone.”