The planet of Sanctum is about to be invaded by the Deino. Young, idealistic Storm Varek, the leader of a clandestine resistance group SIL doesn't intend to sit around and watch as his people are slaughtered by their mortal enemy. Storm knows the United World Defense League cares only about keeping the precious crops grown there safe from the Deino.

Connor is given information about Storm even before he lands on Sanctum, and he doesn't intend to allow him to get in the way of his mission. When Connor and Storm meet, there is no misunderstanding about where they stand. They don't trust each other at all, and with good reason. Connor is biding his time. As soon as he uncovers proof of Storm's illegal activities, he will have what he needs to arrest him and other members of the SIL.

"The word for brotherly love," he said, "it's lamoite. The word for long-time love is lamime, and the word for sexual love," he paused and looked up at me, "is lamous. And in Deinish, it's the kind of sexual love that is equated with unstoppable passion."

"Really?" I said, clearing my throat. When in hell was this song ever going to end?

He reached up and suddenly and pushed a stray strand of hair off my forehead. "Your hair is not regulation, Soldier," he said softly, too damn softly. "What's the punishment for that?"

I gave him an uneasy smile. "Nothing, as long as they don't find out."

"Ah, a naughty boy," he whispered, letting his fingers trail down my cheek. The other hand moved up my back and he pressed his body closer again. My pulse began to race, my heart thumping in my chest and I could feel my testicles tighten as his erection pressed against my thigh. The song ended and I almost pushed him away from me.

"We need to go," I said abruptly, trying to keep my eyes off the naked men on the little stages. "I think I get the picture."

I walked toward door, with him on my heels, several men brushing by me, smiling. I got outside and drew in air. My head was spinning. Thank God I didn't drink that concoction, whatever it was. Once we were back in the air, Storm asked me if I was all right.

"Fine," I said.

"I will leave you at the barracks," he replied.

"You can leave me a half mile from there. I'd appreciate a little walk." I don't know what the hell was wrong with me. The wine must have worn off by now but I still felt like I was intoxicated.

We touched down nearby. I said goodbye and got out. I couldn't look back at him. I began to walk, checking the time. It was late. I checked in with the gate watchman and headed for my unit. When I arrived, I locked myself in, looking forward to my bed. In front of the bed, I pressed my finger to the seam on the uniform and both sleeves began to open. The material fell to my waist. I was just about to press the seam which would allow the rest of it to peel away from my body when I heard a voice say, "Fantastic, keep going."

I swirled around to see Storm sitting on my bed.

"How in the hell did you get in here?" I demanded.