Three things I know about the planet Timbur:

1. It’s home to the most famous miners in the four sectors.

2. My best friend is married to one of them.

3. If you take off your gloves and touch an unmated male, you could trigger a mating bond.

 

So when I attend the Dark Moon Costume Ball, I keep those gloves ON.

I also keep my distance from the brooding male in black who’s been staring at me all night like I’m his next meal. Sure, he’s devastatingly handsome and my body lights up like a supernova every time he’s near. But I’ve watched him make females cry with his harsh words, and I’m done with pretty men who treat people like garbage.

Then midnight strikes. Strange mist floods the cavern. The Xylan crumple around me.

And when I wake up, my glove is gone and my bare hand is clasped in his.

Oh no.

“You’re mine,” he growls.