The Scorpion's Mate (Iriduan Test Subjects #1)

by Susan Trombley

In truth, the romance novel depressed me because it reminded me of what I didn’t have—someone wholly devoted to me.

I’d had the word “anti-social” thrown at me from a counselor or two, but it wasn’t that I didn’t like people. I just wasn’t sure how to deal with them. I never knew the right thing to say, or the proper way to act. Being with Ava by herself was relaxing, because she didn’t care if I said or did the “wrong” thing. But Mike and John were another story. I felt drained from being on my best behavior all day.

“Thrax is the pinnacle of our genetic engineering program. We have completely modified one of the deadliest living organisms from our colony world of Oros so that he will someday serve as a soldier for our empire.”

“I’m telling you this so you will understand how lucky you are. You have been chosen to bear Thrax’s offspring for the Iriduan Empire.” I gaped at the mechdroid. “What did you say?”

He pressed his face into my palm. “I am not.” His eyes met mine. “I would go through it all again, knowing you would be at the end of