Fran betas this bad boy and 2browneyes, Judyblue, Michele and Gabby preread.

EPOV

It is several more weeks before another board meeting is called, and I find myself especially pleased to attend this one. It is time that Peter answers for his failure to convey his pod's interests … especially where my mate is concerned.

That may be wrong of me, but I make no apologies. She is the most important woman in existence to me, yet that does not mean I think less of other women. They should all be heard.

I join her in our main space as soon as I am dressed for the day. Pushing my chest to her back, I wrap my arms around her waist and prop my chin on her shoulder. "Are you ready for the meeting?"

She grips my hands with her own. "I am, although it unnerves me to take part in more of Peter's downfall."

I move my lips to her exposed neck and slide them across her skin, causing her nails to dig into my hand. "He brought this upon himself, Bella," I say lowly, grabbing her lobe between my teeth.

She hisses and moves her neck to the side, baring even more flesh to my wandering lips. "He did," she agrees as a light moan leaves her lips. "But, in this instance, I feel it is a byproduct of our society more than intentional neglect."

I keep my lips moving, stopping to nip here and there, even though her words are tugging somewhere deep inside. She may be right, but no excuse is good enough when it comes to the willful disregard of my mate's request.

Does he not see that she was trying to follow the proper channels? She could have easily skipped over him entirely, but she did not. She attempted to include him in his job, instead of ignoring him and coming to me. I find her actions to be noble, yet that idiot still failed to take her gesture seriously.

I remove my lips and turn her to face me, cradling her cheeks between my palms. "His job is to convey the Commanding Pod's interests to the board—male or female—and he blatantly mocked a request from two separate members. Any punishment he receives is deserved, the same as last incident." I keep my eyes on hers and my tone firm.

She gives me a nod before stretching up onto her toes to offer her lips. I wind my arms around her shoulders and run them down her back to grasp her bottom, pulling her flush against me as our mouths collide. Kissing has become like breathing for us, instinctual and natural. No longer are the touches tentative or frantic, they are sure and sensual as our tongues push and slide against each other slowly and tenderly with a hint of yearning boiling beneath the surface.

My hands begin to roam the expanse of her back before trailing down, going even farther, to the seam of her spacesuit. With a tiny squeak, she pulls away and admonishes me with her eyes. "Edward, you cannot tease me in such a way right before we are to walk out the door."

Even though I am in trouble, I cannot help the smile that spreads across my lips. "I am sorry."

She taps my chest with her fingers. "You are not, but that is okay. Just remember, what goes around comes around." With those ominous words, she steps back and schools her features into an innocent expression. "Are you ready?"

I offer my elbow. "Shall we, minx."

She quirks her lips at my comment but says nothing more. She simply grabs my arm and allows me to lead her from our living quarters and into the morning suns' light. Our stroll to the Commanding complex would not be complete without Blue. I shake my head as soon as I realize it has joined us.

"Does your new companion ever allow you to be unaccompanied?" I ask, tilting my head toward the creature.

Bella catches sight of it and giggles. "No, he does not."

"He?" I ask, curious of this designation.

"Yes, I have deemed him a he," she answers with a solid nod.

I cannot stop myself, I chuckle loud and boisterously. "Bella, you cannot simply deem something a certain sex. There is biology to consider."

"I know this." She huffs. "But I am tired of calling him an it, so for me, he is a he."

I take her hand from my forearm and pull it down to lock out fingers together. "Then he shall be now dubbed a he," I declare, humoring my mate and adding as much authority into my voice as I can muster.

"Thank you, future leader; I do not know what I would have done without your decree." She plays along, and we both burst into laughter almost as soon as she stops speaking.

The rest of the walk is spent admiring the beautiful scenery of Alterna, and when we arrive at the door, I watch as Blue flaps his small wings and lands on the overhead ledge. I eye the creature as I lead my mate into Commanding's hub.

Once we reach the hallway to Captain's office, Bella pulls me to a stop. "I would prefer to wait out here and be called when you need me."

"That is not necessary," I refute her, wanting to enter that room with her on my arm. Who am I kidding; I always want her by my side.

"Not necessary, but I would prefer it. I will be right here when you need me." She strolls over and takes a seat on a small bench that lines the hallway.

"If you insist," I say, giving into her demand even though I wish she would reconsider.

She smiles lovingly at me and nods. "Go. Have your meeting."

I back away, keeping my eyes on her until I hear the doors swoosh open behind me. Turning, I focus ahead, square my shoulders and walk into Captain's office with the same air of authority I have in every other instance.

"Morning, Gentlemen," I announce as I cover the distance to the meeting table. I meet each of their eyes as I move closer, ending with a smirk in Peter's direction.

"Edward," Captain says, causing my eyes to finally land upon his. He is peering at me curiously, but I simply take my seat and attempt to rein in my exuberance for this particular get together.

"Shall we call this meeting to order?" I raise a questioning brow at the men before me.

As per usual, Dr. Hale does not hold back, he immediately lifts his finger to let us know he wishes to speak. "I would like to give an update on the specimens we have been studying from the scouting mission."

I lean forward, propping my elbows on the table, always curious when it concerns the indigenous species of Alterna. "Have you found anything that should concern us?"

Dr. Hale consults his TwiPad and moves an image into the air before us. It is a small creature, bright green in color with tiny red legs, eyes and antennae stretching out from its elongated, oval shaped body.

"This species has brought about speculation. The preliminary tests have shown it is venomous, using the antennae to deliver the dose to its prey. We only have two specimens, and curiously enough, one has venom that is notably more potent than the other. We have yet to determine if it is enough to impact a human form, but it appears likely that the color red may be the key here," Dr. Hales explains, flicking through several different images.

"The color red?" Captain asks, propping his fingers on his chin in thought. "Explain, please."

Dr. Hale points to the images before us. "As you can see, each of these species displays various colors. From preliminary testing, it appears as if the ones who have more red covering their body contain the most potent venom. As I said, we are not sure if any of the levels are adequate enough to harm a human."

"Not sure!" I jump up and prop my fists on the table before me. "You are telling me there are venomous species out there, and you are not sure if they are a harm to humans." My eyes pierce into Dr. Hale, demanding that he give me an acceptable answer.

"Edward," Captain says calmly, laying a hand upon my shoulder. "Let us allow Dr. Hale to finish."

Dr. Hale stutters under my glare before clearing his throat. "I assure you, sir, we are doing everything possible to find the feedback you seek, but with so few specimens, we simply cannot provide the answer at this time. But, you have no need to fear for the safety of our people. These species were found at the outermost limits of the one hundred mile radius."

I tighten my jaw and switch my gaze to Captain. "Send another crew immediately," I demand, my voice tight. "This time specifically to collect specimens with the directive that the color red is a requirement."

Captain nods. "Consider it done."

I switch my attention back to Dr. Hale. "I still expect you to continue your studies on what you have. The safety of our people is paramount, and I will not have them in danger unknowingly."

He nods his ascent. "Yes, sir. We will double our efforts on the small collection we have."

"Very well," I concede, having no other option at this time. "Focus on the coloring aspect for now. If your theory is correct, at least we can give a preliminary warning to our people to avoid any creatures that carry that characteristic."

The thought that there may be species on this planet, which could cause harm to our population, terrifies me. My mind spins with the absolute horror of a situation such as this. We are a people who face no illnesses or mental disorders; a sickness from an indigenous species will have far-reaching consequences.

Dr. Hale nods furiously and says, "Yes, sir. I will double the efforts on proving or disproving that hypothesis."

I nod reluctantly and return to my seat, taking a deep cleansing breath before focusing my attention on Peter. This startling revelation has put me on edge, wanting to see and touch my mate, assure that she is safe, even though she is only in the corridor.

"I would like to clarify the purpose of this board," I say evenly, my voice less strained than before. "It is my understanding that each representative is to bring forth matters that concern their pod. Correct?"

"Yes, Edward," Captain agrees, studying me closely. "I would not think that needs clarifying."

With a terse nod, I sit up straighter, returning Captain's stare. "And does this mean all members of a pod or only select members?" I cross my arms and lift a brow.

"I do not understand what you are asking, exactly," Captain responds, his own brows furrowed as he peers at me.

"Let me make myself clearer then." I stand and start pacing behind the men lined on the left of the table—the side Peter occupies. "I have on good authority that one of our members has not only ignored but blatantly refused to bring a matter of interest to their pod forth."

Peter jumps from his seat and stands before me. "How dare you question me!" he yells, his whole body tense with the accusation.

I step even closer and scoff. "How dare you deny not only my sister but also my mate. You are a disgrace to your position and should resign immediately."

Captain stands and hurries over, placing a firm palm on my chest. "What in Alterna is going on here?" he asks, but his voice is hard as he peers between us.

"Nothing," Peter replies, quietly, and attempts to return to his seat, but Captain does not allow it.

He grabs his arm, halting his progress. "Edward?" he says, though his eyes remain on his long-time comrade.

"Allow me to show you, Captain," I respond and then call, "JAKE."

"Yes, sir." I hear a response, only the sound is off. I turn in his direction to find both JAKE and LEAH have appeared inside the room.

I lift my brow. "LEAH, did you need something?"

"You called, sir," she says, and her arms sit across her translucent chest.

My second brow joins the first, and I hear something like a snort come from the other Twicharacter present. "I distinctly remember saying JAKE."

Her computerized eyes narrow slightly. "I understand, sir. But he is not Commanding's character. I am."

I rub the back of my neck and glance between the two holographic images. JAKE is standing with his arms clasped behind his back, watching the conversation between us with interest, while LEAH stands firm, fully awaiting an answer.

Incredulous at being questioned by a computer, I glare at LEAH. "While I understand your point, I am allowed to call upon whomever I choose. Do not question me again."

She lets out something similar to a huff and plants her non-existent hands on her non-existent hips, her green form practically vibrating before me. "As you wish, sir," she says, her tone so sharp I recoil as she disappears from the room.

I stare at the spot where she stood for a moment before shaking my head and looking to JAKE. "Could you present to us the footage where my sister, Alice, sought out Peter? I would imagine there is only one instance where this is the case."

"Was it inside a Tesla based sector?" JAKE asks. "My surveillance only extends to those areas."

Upon his question, I turn to Peter. "Well?"

He stares at me through loathsome eyes, but then defiantly lifts his chin as he delivers what I am positive is a blatant lie. "No. I met with Alice on a walk through the grounds."

I audibly snort and return my attention to JAKE. "Scan for the footage anyway."

"Yes, sir," JAKE responds as a blur of images builds in his chest and flies by so fast I am unable to latch onto a single one.

While I await the information, Captain says, "Edward, I will not inquire again. What is going on here?"

I turn my attention fully to the two men. Captain is increasingly bothered by his inability to receive answers, and Peter is noticeably fidgeting, his eyes surveying JAKE warily.

I chuckle and begin moving toward the doors. "One moment, please, Captain."

As they swoosh open, my whole being settles when I lay eyes upon my mate. Motioning her forth, I take her hand and lead her into the room. Peter's eyes widen and Captain's narrow, but I smile at them both and proceed forth without a care in Alterna.

"Edward," Captain says carefully, glancing between JAKE, Bella and me. "I would hope you are planning to enlighten the rest of us."

I offer him a grin and turn my narrowed eyes to Peter. "Captain, it appears your Commanding liaison failed to convey his pod's interests."

"That is not true!" Peter professes much too loudly in the silent room.

"Are you saying you did not refuse to acknowledge both Bella and Alice's requests?" I ask in a more forceful tone.

"Th-they were minuscule in comparison to the real issues that our pod faces," he blubbers, looking to Captain for some kind of assurance.

"I do not remember that being part of your decision," I offer, scathingly. "Was it not your job to bring the pod's interests forth? Bella and Alice are, after all, Commanding members."

Captain's face clears of confusion, and he schools it into a cool mask. "Bella, did you request Peter to bring an issue before the board?"

My mate nods. "Yes, sir."

"And you were refused?" Captain's face tightens with each new answer.

I snort, but Bella keeps her voice even as she says, "I was told that my concerns were and always will be trivial."

"It was," Peter bellows. "It was utterly ridiculous!"

Captain remains stoic as he turns to his ex-Co-Captain. "And the issue was?"

I remain silent and give Bella's hand a gentle squeeze as we both stand there and watch Peter fumble for words to explain his incompetence.

He laughs incredulously. "They requested I bring forth the idea of a new uniform to the board." He continues laughing as if it is the silliest possible idea imaginable.

JAKE speaks up. "Sir, I have found the footage you requested."

At my nod, he projects the video before us. I watch with rapt attention as Peter not only dismisses Alice but also belittles her in the process. He makes it very clear that she and her opinions have no place in the Commanding Pod. My jaw clenches with the thought that Bella may have been spoken to in the very same manner.

I am so disgusted with Peter that I drop my mate's hand and take two strides in his direction, not sure of my intent when I reach him. But Captain's voice stops me in my tracks. "That is enough," he barks, his eyes narrowed first at me and then moving to Peter. "I cannot even begin to describe my displeasure right now."

"That will be all, JAKE. Thank you," I say, dismissing him from the room and stepping back to my mate's side.

A throat clears and all eyes turn to Marcus from Farming as he fidgets in his spot. "Forgive me, sirs, but my pod also made that same request. Working in this heat is almost unbearable. It was my intention to address it at this very meeting." He clamps his lips shut and looks back to his hands, unsure what type of response he may receive.

"Thank you, Marcus." I return my eyes back to Captain, my stare demanding him to take the proper action immediately.

Captain pinches the bridge of his nose and breathes deeply. Once he has collected himself, he turns his cool, green eyes on Peter. "Once again, you have used poor judgment in your position. I cannot comprehend why you would refuse to acknowledge any request made by a Commanding member, and even more so, from the Commanding family. I am deeply disappointed."

Peter remains silent, but his whole face has turned red at Captain's words. "I am sorry, sir," he says, but he does not mean it. It is obvious in the way he forces the words from his lips.

"Sorry is not always the proper answer." Captain pauses and shakes his head, most likely disbelieving that he is once again in this situation. "You are hereby dismissed from this position."

"You would not!" Peter says more forcefully than he should.

"You left me no choice." Captain shrugs. "You will occupy a new position with the scouting team."

Peter shakes his head furiously. "Please, sir. Do not do this."

"It is done," Captain replies simply. "Take your leave."

Peter's eyes flit over to Bella and me, and they narrow to slits. "I hope you are pleased with yourself," he snaps and turns to stomp from the room.

I cannot help myself; I smile and turn to my mate. "Thank you for taking the time to testify before us."

"Yes, Isabella," Captain echoes, moving to stand before us. "I appreciate your willingness to come before the board and admit to the injustice you faced. I assure you, we will discuss this issue promptly."

"Thank you, sir," Bella says, giving him a shy smile. "I would also like it recognized that Alice was just as adamant as I was about this change. I hope you would consider including her if you decide to move forward on this project. She has lots of ideas for the new attire."

I have to chuckle aloud at Captain's expression. It is as if he is attempting to figure out the most complicated puzzle imaginable. Finally, he simply says, "Sure, Bella. I will speak with her if we move forward."

"Allow me to walk you out, mate?" I offer, and at her nod, I say, "One moment, please, sir."

Placing my palm upon her back, I turn and lead us from the room. Once the doors have closed behind us, I spin her to face me and cannot help but push my lips to hers.

The thrill of witnessing her voice being heard is electrifying inside of me. To know that Captain listened, without me demanding he do so, drives me to feel that there was some small accomplishment for the women of our society made in that room today.

A sense of vigor rushes through me, and I convey it through our connection. I move my hands from her hips to her back and pull her closer to me, tilting my head so that I may push deeper inside and savor her taste more thoroughly. Her fingers grip the nape of my neck, her nails digging into the flesh, the slight sting only urges me to explore her mouth with more fervor.

An unrestrained groan bubbles up my chest as I feel my member flicker to life. Like a bucket of ice water, where I am and what I am doing comes crashing back into focus. I pull away quickly, panting hard, and push our foreheads together with another groan, this one intentional.

"There are times when you make me lose all reason," I breathe, taking a step back to put some space between us, but trailing my hand down to capture hers, not yet ready to disconnect completely.

She giggles that breathy, seductive sound and licks her lips. "I might suggest it is the exact opposite." She steps forward and places a peck upon my lips before moving quickly back into her spot. "Finish your meeting, and I will see you at home."

Even though I hate to see her go, I know that I have a purpose here, a duty that must be fulfilled. A small sprig of hope has sprouted inside me, and I intend to water it thoroughly. I will use every speck of my authority to nudge Captain in the right direction without him ever realizing my actions.

This incident gives me hope that he does have the ability to accept change.

One more lull then it's time to buckle up.

See you next week :)