One of the first to find her rhun, one of the first to fall pregnant—and the only human survivor of the Shangris to be left alone.

Xenobiologist Gabriella never expected to study anything more interesting than alien bacteria, but the stars had other plans. Flung across the universe with no way home, she’s compelled to join a huge Azar warrior right off the ship. As her friends fall in love with their mates, she hopes for a bright future. That hope is dashed when her mate seems to prefer anywhere but with her, and then gets himself killed. Very pregnant and very alone, she latches on to the Rucieth who appears next door. Vrik is mysterious, sexy as hell, grumpy, and he wants nothing to do with her. Gabriella is determined to win him over.

Banished to Kadeya by his team leader, Vrik wants nothing more than to wait out his forced time off and get back in the fight. He has neither time nor patience for his bright new neighbor and her bizarre choice of pet. It doesn’t take long to determine the beautiful human quiets the voices in his mind. He needs her—maybe more than he wants to admit.

The Scozid threat grows across the universe, the Ka’atari warriors are scattered, and Gabriella’s pet is far from enamored with Vrik.