Fates Mates & Pirates - 49. Chapter 49

My Security Personnel and I boarded the shuttle to hop back over to Puddle Jumper. Once I stepped off the shuttle, I motioned for my escort to take a break as I turned for the Bridge. Settling down in my seat as I brought my screens to life, checking the course I had asked for, it looked good.

“OK Captain. This looks good. Let’s cloak and get underway. Best possible speed to intercept.” I looked over at Adrian.

“On our way, father.” He said as he gave the orders. The ship slipped into its first Jump and I still couldn’t get over the fact that you just barely feel it when we make the transitions in and out of Jump Space. Not the usual stomach lurch that makes some people vomit during transits. Even the new Super Battleships have the reduced lurch. I can’t decide if I miss that or not. It was, after all, part of the adventure of space travel. We had lined up and made our second Jump as Adrian leaned over.

“How do you like it, father?” I leaned over to kiss the side of his head.

“I like it very much, but I need my Battleships to move this fast.”

He smiled. “I’m working on it. Soon I hope to have the answer. Joachim has been very helpful in that regard.” I patted his hand.

“You’ll get it, eventually. And once you do, we have the new production lines to pump them out.” He chuckled.

“You just want your Battleship upgraded again.” He said as he stood to move around the Bridge. He sat before we Jumped again. I settled in to enjoy the ride. “Dad want’s to know if you have time for dinner tonight.” I smiled.

“Yes. I think we could do that.” He nodded as he tapped out a reply. I checked my screens. We should be back aboard Mining Vessel Bear Claws before breakfast if all goes well. I smiled at the thought of waking my baby up like I did this morning. Adrian chuckled beside me.

“Planning your attack for when we arrive back early tomorrow.”

“As a matter of fact, I was.” He shook his head as he said wistfully.

“I hope I find a Mate that loves me as much as you and Dad love each other.”

“You are young yet. You’ll find that person. Who are you dating now?” I asked, because I don’t know. He has had a wide range of dates, male and female. I’ve never seen him keep one for more than 3 months.

“I’m not. I took a break after Ronan. I just don’t feel like it at the moment.” I nodded in understanding.

“Yeah, I was like that when I was younger. There would be a few friends with benefits, rarely anything more serious than that.” I said, as I tapped out a request. I actually had to wait 15 minutes for a response. Which surprised me, but Sasha had agreed to meet with me. I stood. “Rendezvous with Sara Maru and I’ll shuttle over for a quick chat with Sasha.” Adrian tilted his head slightly.

“Does dad know?”

“That I am going to talk to him. Yes. The timing. No. Even I didn’t know until a few minutes ago.” He nodded. “Don’t presume you know what I am doing. How many times have Sasha and his parents dined with us?” He thought it over.

“Several that I remember.” I gave him a sharp nod.

“Just remember that your dad and myself don’t keep secrets. As I know of his friends, he knows of mine.” He sat straighter in his seat at my tone.

“Yes, father.” I made a mental note to discuss this conversation with Adam.

Sasha looked a little nervous as I stepped off the shuttle into the hangar of the Sara Maru. I was met with the customary hug we always give each other before he led me to his cabin. “Is William in hiding, or will I find him sitting in the lounge when we arrive?” Sasha’s head snapped around to me.

“How did you know he was onboard?”

“Because I am watching.”

He sighed. “Can anyone keep a secret from you?”

“Adam has been trying for decades. He’s finally given up.” I said, as Sasha laughed lightly.

“He’s changed Marc.”

“I don’t care Sasha. The only thing I care about is if you are happy or not. I am assuming that my message was delivered.”

“Yes Marc. It was. And I am not happy you didn’t talk to me first.” I shrugged.

“That’s fine. Did he tell you what happened when he tried to talk to Adam on the island? Before our Bonding Ceremony.” He stopped and turned to me.

“He said you had him detained.”

“In hindsight, I could have saved myself and Adam a lot of aggravation if I had just let my Marines have the shoot on sight order. Unfortunately, I didn’t. I was just satisfied with having him on charges that would keep him out of our regions of space. One last favor for Alex.” Sasha stared into my eyes before he sighed.

“I understand you two have a lot of bad blood, Marc.” I snorted.

“That is putting it mildly, Sasha. Let’s continue this in your cabin. I am sure the older members of your crew remember me and would not take too kindly to someone I didn’t like.” Sasha turned and started walking again before he said anything else.

“I’m sorry I didn’t tell you sooner. We were trying to figure out the best way.”

“The best way would have been to just tell me. Not it being accidentally dropped on me by his sister. Which I am sure was intentional, anyway. My response was a standard action towards the protection of the people I care about. As I said, I am watching and now I am watching more closely.” I finished as we had reached the hatch, and he keyed it open as we entered. William was indeed standing by the viewport, looking out over the Puddle Jumper. He turned and looked at me. Our eyes locked before he decided to take the initiative.

“Hello Marc.”

“William.” I replied as Sasha went to his side and gave him a brush of the lips before waving his hand towards the seats.

“Sit with us, Marc.” I moved to a single seat as they sat down on the couch.

“We have been working out a way to tell you. Apparently, my sister got tired of waiting.” William said. I dipped my head towards them.

“She did. Not the smartest move, I might add. For any of the three of you. I will say I am slightly disappointed that you couldn’t tell me, Sash. I thought you, of all people, would know me better.” He hung his head.

“It was me, Marc. Not Sasha, that couldn’t tell you. I wouldn’t let him until I could be sure of your response.”

“My response would have been the same. I have given you your warning. My only concern is for Sasha’s happiness. The Stars themselves will go into hiding if I find out differently. Just like how Adam has been protected.”

“Yes Marc.” He paused, looking for the right words. “I thank you for not issuing a shoot on sight order. Between the charges leveled against me. Alex making me watch your Bonding Ceremony. I had a breakdown and spent a few weeks in a facility.”

I interrupted him, “6 weeks over in the O’Hara Sector.” He froze as he looked at me. Sasha was looking back and forth between us.

“How did you know that Marc?” Asked Sasha.

“Adam made the suggestion. I made sure the message got delivered.” Sasha gave me that knowing smile.

“I thank you for that too Marc.” Said William. I gave him a dip of my head and waited for him to continue. “Does it make sense for me to continue? I am getting the feeling you have been pulling strings to make my family do what you want since the day you bought us out.” I let the one side of my mouth lift as I raised an eyebrow. William sighed, “Thank you Marc. I wouldn’t be where I am today if you haven’t found it in your heart to help us. I understood what you told Alex to tell me. You still love Sasha, and I understand that. That you would protect him as you do everyone you love. I’ve seen what you can do when you decide you need to be deadly and you will do it as you have always done, no matter how much it hurts you personally.” He paused. I nodded to him. “You are a dangerous person, Marc Alexander-Knight. I have had many a nightmare because of you and I am thankful for them all. They helped push me to change. Now I am falling in love with your ex-boyfriend. I actually think I found my mate, and you created both of us.” William stopped talking as he looked into Sasha’s eyes. “Yes Sasha. I think you are my mate.”

“I think you are my mate as well.” Said Sasha before he turned to me. “Everything you did when we were dating. You taught me so much and helped me become the Captain I am today. Now I find out you had a hand in helping the person I think is my mate too. What do I say to that?” They both looked at me.

“Nothing.” I said as I stood. “I need to be running. I have the answer I was looking for.” Sasha jumped up and wrapped his arms around me as he whispered into my ear.

“Thank you, my love.” He said as he kissed me passionately. I pulled back.

“You are welcome, my love. Not something I planned, but it appears to be working out OK.” We separated as I looked over at William. “I wish you well in your business ventures and your life with Sasha.” He dipped his head to me.

“I would wish you the same, but it doesn’t appear to be needed. Will the House and Corporation ever stop growing?” I chuckled.

“I have a few more acquisitions to make yet. Not for a few more years.” William thought about it.

“Our Corporation is formed differently and set up differently than our last one.”

“It is. Isn’t it.” I said as I moved towards the door. They both walked hand in hand behind me as I led the way back to the shuttle.

In the hangar, my Marines joined us again. William just ignored them as Sasha looked in awe, as he always did. I stopped before the ramp and turned to Sasha and William. “Until we meet again Sasha and William.” My eyes moved to each one as I said their name. Sasha walked forward and hugged me again. Planting a light kiss on my lips.

“Until we meet again Marc.” He said as he moved back. I just looked at William. He stepped forward slowly and wrapped an arm around me, which I returned.

“Thank you for everything, Marc. Until we meet again.” Patting his back before we separated.

“Stay safe you two and I will see you both soon.” I said as I turned and stepped onto the ramp. They were hugging each other as I closed the hatch and dropped into my seat. “Back to the Puddle Jumper, if you please.”

“Aye Sa.” I tapped out a few keys and Adrian appeared on my screen.

“Yes Admiral.”

“Captain. Have a course plotted back to the cradle. I want to see if we can catch Adam before dinner.” Adrian smiled.

“We’ll depart as soon as you are in the hangar, Sa.”

“Thank you Adrian.”

“You’re welcome, father.” And the Link closed. I sat back as we lifted and pulled out of the hangar, then the shuttle accelerated as it pulled into a tight turn lining up with my shuttle bay. In less than a minute, we were locked down as I felt the Puddle Jumper power up to speed. I smiled as we entered the first Jump as I walked down the ramp and headed to my quarters. I tapped my work station to life as I opened a new Link.

“Hello love.”

“Hello baby. I just finished talking with Sasha and William. I stopped in with April first, as you know, and Alex listened in.” Adam smiled.

“How did it go?” I chuckled.

“Very well all around.”

“That’s good. How much did you tell them?” I gave him my most innocent look.

“I told them very little. I made them think I told them many things. They are going in the right direction, at least. Thanks for that little tidbit about the O’Hara Sector. That was very useful.” He laughed.

“I thought it was interesting and might be useful someday. I’m glad I held onto it.”

“Well, it turned out to be very useful. I had my Link on meeting record mode. I’ll download it for us to go over later.” He turned away to look at something.

“You are burning fast. Trying to catch us for dinner?” I lowered my head and looked at him from under my eyebrows.

“I was hoping to arrive before dinner for a mid-afternoon snack.” I purred out in a low, seductive tone.

“Marc. No Link sex.” Adam said, which caused me to bark out a laugh.

“Yes dear. I will see you soon.” I said as I closed out the Link and stood heading for the Bridge. Walking in, I headed straight for my chair, dropping into it and bringing my screens to life. Adrian spun his seat to look at me.

“Yes, kiddo?” He just smiled as I looked at various items. My head raised up slightly to look at Adrian.

“I have the ship, Captain.” He smiled.

“You have the ship, Admiral.”

” Thank you.” I turned.

“Engineering. Bring up number three QPG. Let me know when it hits 80 percent.”

“Aye Sa. Number 3 QPG at 40 percent and rising. Now fifty percent and will inform you of 80 percent.”

“And by the time I say this, we should be at 80 percent correct?” I said as I tapped out commands and a new board rose up next to me. I turned to that as the Engineering Officer called.

“80 percent Admiral and climbing.”

“Thank you.” I tapped a button.

“This is Admiral Alexander-Knight. All hands stand by for Spatial Shift in 2 minutes.” I said as I started tapping out the commands into the Spatial Shift system and watched as the capacitors started to charge. I fed all excess power into the system as I tracked the Mining Vessel Bear Claws and worked out where she would be in three minutes from now. I smiled as I finished my calculations and fed them to the AI to verify for me. “1 Minute to Spatial Shift.” Checking again as the power fed into the system. I looked up at Adrian.

“What’s up, kiddo?” He cocked his head at me.

“You are awfully happy.”

“Yes. I am heading home to my Mate.” He nodded.

“What else kiddo?”

“How come only you and Dad are allowed to access the Spatial Shift System?”

“Because it is the only one in existence.” I said as he thought it over, then nodded. Not true, but he doesn’t need to know. Turning his seat back to the forward position. I activated the system and it spooled up as I checked the readings.

“Spatial Shift in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, Shift.” I sat and listened. It would be about 7 seconds before sound returns as we were frozen in time. I counted down in my head and reached 1, or should it be 0. Flash? The sounds returned as everyone moved to check their equipment and screens. I checked the location of Mining Vessel Bear Claws versus where we were.

“Helm, bring us about and head for the cradle.”

“Aye Sa.” I tapped out a Link to the ship.

“Home already Admiral.”

“Indeed Keith. Unlock the cradle for us, please. We are headed in.”

“Adam saw you had arrived and activated the retrieval settings already.” I smiled.

“There is a reason I love my Mate.” He laughed.

“Indeed Marc. See you in a few.”

“Be there in 5 minutes, it looks like.” He nodded and disconnected as we pulled around to line ourselves up with the cradle and Locks. I sat back while I watched the screens as I shutdown systems. “Engineering shutdown Number 3 QPG.”

“Aye Sa. Shutting down Number 3 QPG.” Another new system. The Quantum Power Generator or QPG. A very nice addition to my ships.

“Very well. Captain Alexander-Knight. You have the ship.”

“Aye Sa. I have the ship.” He gave a few orders as we dropped down, lining up with the cradle. I stood at the rear viewport as we dropped down and waved as we passed the rear viewport of my cabin. Mike and Taylor, as well as the kids, were there waving back as we settled into the cradle and attached the Locks. “Ship is secure Admiral.”

“Thank you Captain. Don’t forget dinner tonight.”

I walked down the ramp to my tones as I was piped aboard. Adam waited with our Marines and Security Personnel for me to step past the Honor Guard as I walked into his arms. “You made good time, dear. Did you cheat?” I gave him my patent grin.

“I wanted to make sure I was back in time for my midday snack.” Adam’s eyes sparkled as he backed away, taking my hands and pulling me with him. “I’ll take that as a yes. I made it in time.”

“Yes, my monster. You are just in time.” We smiled at each other as we walked back to our cabin. I hugged everyone, and then Adam and I disappeared into our bedroom. An hour later, hair still drying, with that glow about us as Adrian walked in.

“Adrian. Just in time. Your dad and myself were going to sit down and go over the meetings. Join us.” I said as I turned to Liam and Marc, Adam. “The two of you should join us as well. I believe you all will find it very enlightening.” I said as I seated myself at the table and fired up the large HoloTable built into the dining table before I tapped my Link to life and transferred the file to Adam’s and my private storage system. Then I taped my tablet to life. Pulling the file and playing it on the HoloTable. I sat back as we listened and watched the few clips.

Towards the end, Adam spoke. “Nice of you to hug him after terrorizing him for all those years, baby.”

“The monster was feeling charitable just because he appears to make Sasha happy.” I said as he snickered.

“Yes. I think he will endeavor to keep that relationship a happy one. And how much longer until you pull them in out there?” I shrugged.

“April has something she is looking into. A few years at most. I can’t wait forever.” He nodded as he looked at the kids. I had watched them for the entire presentation. They were starting to put items together to form the larger picture. One item that they already knew was that Adam and I were a team. I am happy that Marc Adam and Liam both understand that. I sat forward and raised an eyebrow at him.

“I have nothing else,” Adam said in response to my unasked question. I smiled a nod as I looked at everyone else. Adrian sat up straighter.

“You’ve been controlling their movements?” Asked Adrian. I snorted.

“No. I have been making them think I have. I feed them information and they usually go the direction I want them to.” Adam mouthed, Monster. My head dipped in his direction and one side of my mouth lifted up in a half grin. Which made him blush. Taylor just shook his head while Mike turned his head when he covered his mouth. The kids looked at them in turn before I responded.

“They have known us for years before you three were born. They understand certain looks better than you do.” I said as I shut the system down and stood to head over to my work space with my tablet. I looked at the couch and back at Adam, then back at the couch.

“Let me just grab my tablet and I’ll be right over.”

“Thank you dear.”

“Of course, love.” Once he was in position, I settled in against him and we started our work before dinner. With us trading tablets a few times to share the decision making on certain projects.

Adam and the kids left the next day on Puddle Jumper. He had to return for a special meeting and I decided that I didn’t need the kids for my last 4 stops. And they needed to get back to work, anyway. I looked at the time, then headed to the Bridge. After dropping into my seat, I activated my screens, then tapped out the codes for the Spatial Shift System. Keith looked over at me expectantly as I checked several screens.

“Captain. Increase Main Power Generation to 95 percent.”

“Aye Sa.” He gave the orders as I started to siphon off power to the Spatial Shift System.

“Captain. Drop the cloak on the group and pull them in to Jump Rider positions. Please.”

“Aye Sa.” I watched as the system capacitors charged and our little fleet was pulling into their positions. The Cruisers locked in place outside the ring as the Destroyers meshed with the primary hull. “Group is secured, Sa.”

“Thank you.” I tapped a few keys. “Attention Bear Claws Wing. Prepare for Spatial Shift in 5 minutes from my mark. This will be a 2 minutes and 43 second Shift. Mark.” I started my timer as Keith looked over at me.

“Checking the project?” I nodded.

“That and pulling more data from our group jumps.”

“Last round of fixes took care of most of the problems.” Keith said as I studied the screens.

“It is looking good. I am just verifying our latest calculations, and I need to put in an appearance.” This is the real reason I didn’t want the kids here. Outside of my crews, only Adam and the people working on the project have any idea what we are going to see, even then only nine people know of its existence. Just the length of the Shift period alone is telling our people it is very far off indeed. We hit the two-minute mark. “Attention Bear Claws Wing. All flight recorders are to stop recording from this point forward until further notice. All view ports are to either shut armored portals or go opaque. Report readiness for Spatial Shift in 1 minute via the status board. Admiral Alexander-Knight out.” I took control of the helm and shifted our position to the line I wanted as I watched.

“All ships report ready, Sa.”

“Thank you, Keith.” I waited until the 30 second warning as I checked all last-minute readouts on the systems. At 10 seconds I tapped the Comm’s open again.

“Spatial Shift in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, Shift.” Flash. It’s a whole different experience to be frozen in time. Or should I say, slowed in time so much it feels like you are frozen. Your mind still works, but it is slow to react. I just sat where I was. My hand still extended with a finger over the key that I pushed to make us Shift. The slight delay on the actual Shift allows my hand to pull back off the button before the actual effects take effect. Counting to 163 in my head, I awaited the flash that was to come. I felt like I was sleeping when the flash startled me and everyone else as we began to take control of the ship once again. I tapped a few keys.

“Attention Bear Claws Wing. Report abnormalities, damages and causalities to the status board. We’ll begin maneuvering momentarily. Admiral Alexander-Knight out.” I waited as Keith made a sound. I turned to him.

“Is there a special reason why people want to play during Shift?” That made Keith snort.

“And you didn’t even look at the reports, did you?”

“No. I know your sounds, then guessed. I figured it would happen, eventually.”

“Well, it did. 1 broken arm and another with a concussion from the crack on their head.” I just looked up at the ceiling as I thought about it.

“I can’t think of any way of preventing it.”

“True.” I looked back to the screens to check everything before I started the ship in its maneuvers designed to bring it alongside the station constructed here. I was flying by instruments only. No visuals. I tapped out a secured Comm’s Link.

“Tug leader. This is House Actual. We are super heavy today. 6 tugs and attach for docking, please.” After a moment.

“Copy, House Actual. Super Heavy, 6 Tugs and we are moving into position now.”

“Thank you Tug Leader.”

Minutes later, I crossed the boarding tube and entered the station with the usual tones of being piped aboard. I saluted the Marine Honor Guard as I passed through before extending my hand to Admiral Olivia Peters.

“Hello Olivia. How is life out here in the middle of nowhere?”

“Very nice Marc. The colony is doing good. The production is fantastic, and the food is out of this world.” I laughed as she led me to the briefing room for a formal breakdown from the staff. I held up my arms as Elijah and Faith slipped under. Each greeting me with a kiss and side hug.

“Are my kids still happy here?”

“Yes, father. Very happy.” Said Faith as she hugged me again.

“Oh. And do I know who it is that makes you so happy here?”

“Father. Don’t tease her.” I smiled over at Elijah with a raised eyebrow.

“How are you, my son?”

“Good as usual. I’ll be up next week for a few days. Are you going to be around?” I thought about it before I spoke over my shoulder.

“Am I home next week, Brian?” He tapped his tablet.

“Wednesday we are in Baldries Sector. Otherwise yes.”

“Thank you.” I said, as Elijah nodded.

“I’ll be up Tuesday night and leave Friday morning.” I kissed the side of his head.

“I’ll pencil you in.” I said as I turned back to Faith. “When are you coming up, kiddo? We miss you too.” She hugged me again.

“I know. I’m just busy. I’ll see if I can make it up next month for a few days. I’ll Comm dad for the schedules to figure it out.” I leaned over and kissed the top of her head.

“Sounds good princess. You can bring the new significant other if you want.” She sighed.

“Fine. I’ll see if she wants to come or not.” We turned the corner and entered a secured area, then the briefing room. Twenty people rose out of their seats as I entered.

“Be seated everyone. We’ll make this fast. I had to cheat to get here today.” I paused for a few chuckles from around the table. “Let’s start with Research.” I paused as Brian handed me my tablet opened to the correct division. “The Providence and the Dark Precipice projects.” I said with a nod to Faith and her two people.

Almost two hours later. I had a metric ton of reports and a wish list that would stretch from one end of the Mining Vessel Bear Claws to the other. I felt good about this project in general. I hid it from Adam for almost two years before I told him one day as I brought him out to see it. After the initial shock, he was fine. The best part is no one on else in The Five Sectors Government knows it’s here. The bulk of our forces stationed here are permanently stationed here. They will not be rotated back to the fleet anytime soon or ever. The staff and colonist are all specifically recruited for this project. Which is now almost 80 percent self sustaining. Another 5 years and they would be 95 percent self sustaining. I said my goodbyes, hugging my children, before crossing back over the tube to my ship going directly to the Bridge. I brought the systems back up and began charging the Spatial Shift System again. It was now time to return to where I was going before I detoured here.

“Captain. Pass the word we are moving back out in a few minutes. Get us 6 tugs for pull back while I handle the navigation for our next Shift.” Keith smiled.

“Aye Sa.” I shifted in my seat, getting comfortable as the power came up with the system capacitors charging. I spoke.

“I know it’s boring, but I can’t reveal the facility or location of this. Yet.”

“I know Marc. We’ll survive.” I chuckled.

“Make work, then. Drop the tube and pull us away from the station. Bring us around to 037.9 Mark 33 at 20 percent on the Mains. I’ll Shift us out in about 15 minutes.”

“Of course, Sa.” I continued my calculations as Keith moved us away from the Station and pulled us around to our new course. I tapped the keys again for the Comms.

“Attention Bear Claws Wing. We are heading out. Prepare for Spatial Shift in 7 minutes. Admiral Alexander-Knight out.” I tapped the hold key and set the timer before I turned to Keith.

“We’ll forgo training today. We’ll be hopping around too much.”

“Aye Sa.” I inputted a few commands before I tapped the Comms system open again.

“Attention Bear Claws Wing. We are 2 minutes from Shift. I, as many of you know, like to have fun. Having said fun during our Shift’s is not a good idea people. Sit back, relax and enjoy the ride. House Actual out.” I shook my head as I went back to checking systems read outs as I tapped my fingers on the arm of my crash chair. I shrugged as I reached for the Comm’s button again. My pinky finger poised to tap it as my hand would slip over to the activation button for the Spatial Shift System. The timer hit 10 seconds. I tapped and moved.

“Shift in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1,” I paused as a smiled, waiting as I counted to 7. Keith turned his head to look at me. “Shift.” I said as I pushed the button. Flash. And we are frozen.

My face is stuck in mid laugh as my eyes had looked towards Keith’s expression. I was mentally saying that my pause was to let everyone hit the floor before we Shifted. I was also trying to count in my mind to see if I could accurately detect the point we would come out of Shift. Flash. My laugh roared out across the Bridge as we pulled out of Spatial Shift and I began to shut the system down. It was a good day for my research teams as I had Shifted back and forth across the Confederation. 100’s of light years in the time span of minutes. In another 20 minutes we could probably do it again, but my fuel reserves are running low. I was satisfied with the system as it worked as advertised.

Three more days and two stops later we Jumped back into the Zebarra Sector. I had Keith do an uncloaked flyby of one of our Star Cruiser Liners, Symphony of Serenity, as she was passing through customs. I waved from the Bridge Wing in case Bella was looking. We had Comm’d ahead to let them know we were passing by. Just to let everyone see our newest battleship as we headed for Serenity Base. Which we should just make it for dinner. I told Keith to turn it over to the Executive Officer and follow me up for dinner once we docked. Anthony and Beth were coming with two of their kids. General Peters was on Base and would join us too as well as an unknown number of my own kids might be there. I smiled as we entered into the hangar where Puddle Jumper was already docked. I tapped my Link.

“Lucas. Dinner when we arrive.”

“OK, father. I’ll turn it over to Jill and be a few minutes behind you.”

“Sounds good kiddo. See you there.” I disconnected as we had clamps attached with the Locks. “I’ll be in my quarters, Captain. We’ll depart in 15 minutes.”

“Aye Sa.” Keith said as he continued to secure the ship.

It felt good to be home. I took a deep breath of the earthy smelling air that our parks provide us with as I walked down the ramp. Saluting as I was piped aboard while I stepped off the ramp. Adam and a few of our children were waiting for me as I approached. Adam, as always, was my first hug and kiss before I worked my way through my children, to include Liam and Marc Adam. I returned to Adam’s side as he spoke while we walked to our suite.

“Bella Comm’d. Said to tell you she saw you wave and she should be able to make dinner.”

“Excellent. I look forward to it. Who else is coming?” I asked.

“That’s above your pay grade, Admiral.” I hummed out, um hum, as I pulled him in tighter to my side.

“So. If I tickle you. Will you tell me?” I said as I ran two fingers up his far side, making him jump away from me. Spinning, he started walking backwards as his hands moved to ward me off. My head dipped down, so I looked out from under my eyebrows as once again, one side of my mouth lifted up in a half smile as my steps became more measured.

“Marc.” Adam said softly in warning. “Don’t do it.” I barked out a laugh as we continued to our suite while I pulled him into my side again. He looked down on me again with those sparkling eyes I love so much.

“Is it time for more kids, baby? You have such a beautiful glow when you are pregnant.” I said in all honesty. He smiled down at me. Looking deep into my eyes trying to figure out if I was joking or not.

“Do you really want more kids, Marc?” I shrugged.

“I wouldn’t be opposed to the idea if you wanted more. Just one at a time now. Not two.”

“I’ll think about it.” He whispered before he kissed the tip of my nose.

“OK.” I said as I made a turn and waved my hand across in front of us, making the main entrance doors open as we walked up the steps to the suite. Passing into the foyer, I heard the running of little feet as I pulled away from Adam just as Alessandro came charging around the corner.

“Alessandro. Come back here.” I heard a frustrated Tomas walking fast down the hall as the dark mop of hair and wiry arms crashed into me. I lifted my 5-stanyear-old nephew up into a hug as I said.

“I caught him Tomas. He’s good.” Alessandro kissed my cheek.

“Welcome home Uncle Marc. Mom wouldn’t let me come up to meet you in the hangar.” I laughed as I held the bundle of energy in my arms.

“That is fine, little one. We are together now. Are you ready for dinner?” He shook his head.

“Can you show me the new Battleship please?” He asked as he dragged out please.

“I’ll speak with your parents. Maybe when you go back home, I can bring you.” I said as Tomas came into the foyer a little flushed.

“Sorry Marc. We were outside in the park and he heard one of the Marines say you had arrived and took off running.” I turned to Alessandro.

“You could have walked. I would have come out too. It’s almost time for my walk with Uncle Adam. Where are your brother and sister?”

“They went with Sa’s Alexander to check on the ski area.” I raised an eyebrow and looked at Adam.

“Your parents dropped in and took them down skiing.”

“I knew we would get good use creating the ski resort.” I said, nodding as we started moving again. I headed for the lift as I wanted to relax in the family room as my staff followed behind us. Hauling our gravtrunks and work bags. Bella caught up with us, giving Alessandro a stern look. He just buried his face in my neck. I chuckled as I patted his back for attention.

His head came up as I asked. “Did you mind your manners or did you just take off to see me?” He hung his head, thinking about it. He looked over his shoulder at his parents.

“Sorry mom and dad. I just wanted to see Uncle Marc and the new Battleship.” Bella shook her head as she sighed.

“I bet he designs ships when he gets older. He’s always working with me when I am working on the designs.” I nodded as my Link chimed. Switching Alessandro around to my other side, I lifted it to check. My frown must have given it away as Alessandro spoke. “I can get down so you can work.” I kissed the side of his head as I lowered him to the ground before stepping closer to Adam and showing him. He looked at me with raised eyebrows.

“Will you need to go now?” Asked Adam.

“No. I don’t think so. I can wait until after dinner to handle this.” He slipped an arm across my shoulders and kissed the top of my head as he started us walking again.

I dropped down into my favorite chair when I sat alone as Brian handed me my tablet. I fired it up to look at the message in more detail. Then I pulled up a few other screens to check other items involved. I was involved in my work when Bella came in looking resplendent in her First Officers dress uniform talking with Aurora and Leonardo. Bella Vasterrossi and Tomas’s other two children. That meant my parents must be back too, as I tapped out some orders before shutting down the system. They waited patiently as I handed off the tablet to my staff before standing to hug Bella tight and kiss the side of her head.

“See. I told you I would try to get here more when you are here.” She hugged me tighter.

“Thanks, father. Love you too.” I kissed the side of her head again before I pulled away shifting to take one of the kids in each arm for a hug.

“How does my fake ski area stand up against your real thing?” Leonardo looked into my eyes.

“It’s just as good as ours, Uncle Marc. Probably better because you can walk to it as well as get back on the slopes after a run faster.” I smiled.

“Thanks, kiddo. That was the idea. I still like your mountain, though.” Aurora looked up.

“You just like chasing Uncle Adam down the slopes with the glider.” She said. Smiling at the memories as I nodded my head.

“True. All very true. Of course, don’t forget visiting our friends in the village.” Her eyes went wide as if she just remembered something.

“I’ll be right back.” She spun and took off. Tomas looked after her then he had what looked like a, oh that, moment and smiled. A few minutes later, she came in carrying 3 bags. Adam’s head whipped around and locked in on the logo on the side of one of the bags as his smile grew. I barked out a laugh.

“Look out. The coco monster is loose.” As everyone in the room started to laugh while Aurora and Leonardo started to pass out boxes of chocolates with help from Alessandro.

“Thank you, kiddo.” I said as he handed me a two boxes. One was my favorite. The other had a note on it from Louis and Henrietta, the owners of our favorite Chocolate Shop, Try this Marc. We think you’ll like it. And I did. I signaled for one of our staff after I had two. “Put this in my office hiding spot, please.” She smiled knowingly as she replied.

“Of course, Sa Marc.” And I swear my beloved coco monster watched those two boxes walk out of the family room in the staffer’s hands before he turned to me with a look that said. I know where they are going. It caused me to laugh as I moved over to hug him.

“My coco monster is happy now?” He locked eyes with me. They sparkled with his smile.

“Yes, my monster. Did you hide yours well?” I lifted one side of my mouth in a half smile.

“Why baby? I don’t know what you are talking about.” He snorted.

“You’re hiding them in your office again.” I kissed his cheek.

“Possibly.” I said as I moved away and laughed at Liam as he tried to grab a chocolate from Marc Adam, who was holding the box away from him. I wrapped him in my arms.

“If he won’t share, my junior coco monster, I have some I will share with you later.”

“See Marc Adam. Father loves me, unlike you.” He laughed as he held out a chocolate for Liam.

“One more and then after dinner, you can have more.” Marc Adam said. I watched as Liam took the offered chocolate and promptly made it disappear before he spoke.

“Come on baby. One more please.”

“After dinner Liam.” I said as Marc Adam smiled at me.

“Thanks, father.” He said, which he does sometimes instead of using Starfather.

“Your welcome kiddo. Not that it’s going to help much. He inherited the coco monster gene from his dad.”

Marc Adam nodded knowingly, “I know, father. I have ways to deal with it.” I reached around before I placed my arms across their shoulders as I moved us towards the passageway from the family room.

Dinner was a rambunctious affair, as was to be expected with the number of chocolate fueled teens in attendance. Adam sat at the opposite end of the table as several kids sat next to us. As they always do. They sit with the person they haven’t seen lately. Our Bella, with Bella’s kids, sat next to me with Hunter. I was surprised when he arrived just as we sat down to dinner. I jumped up and held him in my arms for a few minutes as people shifted seats to make room for him near me. Even more surprised when he introduced me to his girlfriend, Anna. They arrived last night having dinner with Adam as I haven’t seen him in a two months. I gave Adam my patient smile as I looked out from under my eyelashes at him. He blushed in return as he smiled back at me.

“Father. Stop teasing dad.” I turned to Hunter.

“Since before any of you were born, kiddo. Still has the same effect now as it had then.” He laughed as he whispered something to Anna, who also laughed. Then Hunter turned to me.

“Father, can I talk to you and Dad after dinner?” I looked at his face. He was nervous.

“Yes. Of course. Here, or would you like privacy?” I could almost see relief draw across his features as I spoke.

“Privately please.” Nodding, I tapped a message to Adam, looking up towards him. He checked his Link then looked up at us, giving me a nod.

“All set kiddo. We’ll pop over to our private sitting room.” I said as he leaned in.

“Thanks, father.”

“We’ll always make time for you kids. All you need to do is ask.”