Ethereal Law: A Romantic Sci-fi Novel (Ethereals Book 2)

By Gem Stone

What do you do when you realise your mate has been right under your nose all your life? And she’s a he!
In Jas and Praid’s case, they reject it. Fight it, and decide to hide it from everyone. Unfortunately, when you live in space with your best friends, keeping secrets is hard.
They have been persecuted by the G.O.D.S. and hunted almost to extinction. Now they’re crossing galaxies in search of a lost Ethereal. But with aliens of all kind chasing them and the law closing in, Jas must decide, what’s more important, his secret or his mate?
How far will Jas go to avoid their mating and what will Praid do when Jas's rejection pushes him over the edge?

Warning - This book contains action, adventure, hot man on man sexual situations, sneaky females who can't mind their own business and proof that no matter where you come from, you can't pick who you fall in love with.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Gem Stone
• Release date: Jun 1, 2017
• ISBN: 9781370357963

Gem Stone

Gem Stone lives in England with the man of her dreams and her two children. She spends her spare time reading, writing, blogging, and talking to her pets. She is a firm believer that surprises make life worth living, you can’t pick who you fall in love with, and everyone deserves a happy ending.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Praideurn Vech's gaze travelled to the seat beside him where Jas, their pilot, sat. His heart picked up its pace as Jas’s emerald eyes met his and he felt blood rush to his cheeks. If he just moved his foot slightly it might nudge Jas’s. They stared at each other as if unable to look away. Jas's eyes held just as much confusion as his own must. Praid wanted to curse when Brise, their cook, said something to Jas, breaking the moment. But he held his tongue. It wouldn’t do to draw attention to his and Jas’s current situation.

He sank back in his chair and stared unseeing at the film playing on the wall. The eighties music he'd grown fond of sounded through the speakers tucked into his ears, blocking out noise around him.

The ship they called home had changed since they’d kidnapped a human, Ariane. What began as a simple means to make money had turned into so much more. Ax, their captain, had discovered the human was his mate, something all the men thought they lost when their home planet, Ethra, had been destroyed. Apparently they were wrong. Their mates didn’t have to be Ethereal as they all assumed; they could be any species. This had created a great feeling of hope amongst the men, knowing they could have soulmates out there waiting for them.

For Praid, it had created a great deal of confusion.

As Ethereals, they could adopt the image of any species they wished, within limits; they couldn’t change their sex and strength, and their height always stayed in proportion. However, ever since he’d been using the human form they all adopted to make Ariane comfortable; he'd been feeling things he’d never experienced before. He suddenly knew who his soulmate was and it wasn’t someone waiting on a far-off planet. It was Jas.

Neither of them knew what to do about their circumstances. He’d never heard of two Ethereal males being soulmates. At first, he’d thought he was mistaken but after some prodding, Jas had admitted to also feeling an attraction. It seemed strange that they’d never experienced these feelings before. Maybe they’d just never used bodies which allowed the feelings to manifest.

He’d done research. On Earth, Ariane’s destroyed planet, males often mated with other males. He'd also seen mated males in the films she liked to watch. There had even been men holding hands on the one now playing. He could only conclude that now he used a human form, it allowed him to acknowledge, his mate had been near him all along. If only they knew what to do about their situation.

Trel entered with a bowl of len. It was a snack Ariane liked, claiming it tasted just like popcorn, whatever that was. Praid grabbed a handful and quickly shoved it into his mouth. The food tasted like sand pouring over his already dry tongue and struggled to go down his throat. He couldn’t force himself to eat any more so went to put the rest of the food in the bin.

Sorry, he mumbled, when he turned and walked into someone’s chest. Swiftly stepping back he wobbled. Strong hands grasped his arms and steadied him. He gazed up into Jas’s smiling face.

Careful, he thought Jas said, he spoke so softly Praid couldn't hear him over his music, just see his lips moving.

Praid stared into his mate’s sparkling eyes and relaxed as Jas’s thumbs moved in circles on his arm. He slowly reached up and tapped one of his earbuds, turning them off, scared to make sudden movements in case it disturbed the moment.

Dyan pushed past them, laughing good-naturedly, as he knocked Praid out of the way. Dance somewhere else, guys.

Jas flinched but his grip tightened, steadying Praid once more before quickly letting go. Shut up, moron, he said, quoting a name Ariane used on occasions as he shoved Dyan in the back.

Praid watched the two men break into a friendly fight, pushing each other back and forth. With a shake of his head he left the room. This was why Jas refused to acknowledge they were mates; he feared what the others would think. Known as a strong confident male, he couldn’t handle being mated to another man. On Ethra, males never mated together. He didn’t know why, it just wasn't done. Praid worried about the others reaction too, but recently the craving for his mate outweighed the worry.

Entering the control room, he flopped into his seat and stared at his monitor. He needed to check their course before he went to bed. They were headed to Mart, a small auction planet.

Ariane had been kidnapped from there not long ago by Gornneds, short beings with fingers like tentacles, who gave off a horrible stench as a defence mechanism. The captors had a female Ethereal who they wanted to breed so they could sell the offspring. Ethereals could only breed with a soulmate; however, her captors didn’t know that. The Ethereal, Calis, had helped Ariane escape but unfortunately didn’t get away herself. Ariane was pregnant so when Calis got captured she’d insisted Ariane go ahead alone. They were now going back to rescue her, if they could find her.

Everyone felt trepidation about returning to Mart so soon but it was their best shot at discovering where the Gornneds had gone.

The seat next to him creaked, alerting him that someone had sat down. He glanced sideways to see Jas fiddling with the ship controls.

Hi.

Jas glanced around the room before replying, Hi.

Praid did a quick scan of him with narrowed eyes before he spoke again. What? You have to make sure no one is watching before you talk to me, now? It will look even stranger if we stop speaking.

Jas blushed as he returned his attention to the controls. Sorry, it’s just... He sighed and began randomly pressing buttons. Sorry.

Praid looked back at his monitor. Me too, he said, though he wasn’t sure what he’d apologised for. Why shouldn’t he greet his mate? Or even his crew member. We need to talk, he mumbled, so Ax and Sek, across the room, couldn’t hear.

Jas stiffened beside him and continued to look straight ahead. There's no point.

Of course there's a point. You're my mate!

Jas flinched at the words and swiftly scanned the room again. Stop saying that.

Praid couldn’t help the tears that welled in the corner of his eyes at Jas’s rejection. Jas was his mate. The one person who should love him unconditionally and who he could always rely on. At the moment his mate didn’t even want to be in the same room as him and wouldn’t talk to him without checking for watchers. He’d be lying if he said it didn’t hurt. He blinked the moisture away, hoping no one noticed.

Praid caught his reflection in the monitor. He didn’t look bad. He wasn’t handsome like Ax or Sek but he looked okay. No matter what image he took he'd always be more brains than brawn. He thought the image he’d picked suited him and Ariane had said he looked cute. He was slim but not scrawny, slightly toned. And the new clothes he favoured in Earthling design suited his appearance; at least he thought they did. The black trousers he wore were tight on his bum and the white button down shirt hugged his torso.

He let his eyes wander over Jas’s frame. He had shoulder length blond hair which hung loosely around his face, a square jaw and lovely green eyes. Although slim like himself, Jas had more muscle, making his shoulders broader and his chest wider. Praid’s fingers itched to skim over that chest, lifting the blue T-shirt Jas wore as he went. He wanted to feel the skin below, and then trail his arms around his mate’s neck to tangle his fingers in the blonde hair. He shoved away from his monitor and fled the room before giving into the temptation.

Reaching his room without running into anyone, he lay on the bed with a sigh. What was he supposed to do? Maybe he should change his image to one more like Jas’s. Perhaps his mate would want him then. As soon as the thought entered his head, he tossed it away. He liked the image he used. It felt right.

Most Ethereals couldn’t wait to find their mate yet his lived on the same ship, and wanted nothing to do with him.

Knocking on the door made him jump. He glared at it hoping whoever had dared to interrupt his wallowing would go away. It wasn’t until Jas’s quiet voice reached him through the thin metal that he bothered to raise his head.

Praid, are you there?

He pulled himself into a sitting position and leant against the wall. Come in.

The door slid open slowly and Jas stepped in, swiftly closing it behind him.

Praid frowned. Was he scared someone would see him enter Praid’s room now, too? The whole crew always wandered in and out of each other's quarters. Well, except Ax’s room. Ever since Sek accidentally walked in on Ax and Ariane during sex, everyone had learnt to avoid that room.

Jas loitered by the doorway, not taking his eyes off the floor.

Did you want something? Praid asked, in no hurry for another rejection.

I’m sorry. Jas shuffled his feet as he spoke.

Sorry for what?

Finally, those green eyes rose to meet his as Jas took a few steps closer. I’m sorry for what I said; I just don’t know what to do about this.

This?

Us... we’re two males. We shouldn’t mate.

Praid sat up straighter. This was the first time Jas had admitted they were mates. Yes, he said he felt an attraction before but he’d never mentioned anything more. How do you know? Since we are obviously mated, I’d say it’s meant to be.

Maybe we’re wrong.

Praid could see the desperation in Jas’s eyes. How much he wanted them to be wrong. It hit him like a punch to the gut. Is that what you really think? We’re mistaken?

Jas held his gaze as he walked closer, stopping at the side of the bed. Praid’s breathing quickened as his mate looked down at him. He stood so close Praid could smell the scent Jas liked to use, strong and sharp, all male. His fingers twitched, begging to reach out and touch.

No, I don’t think we’re mistaken, Jas breathed seconds before he leant down and claimed Praid’s lips with his own.

Praid sat still in shock. The last thing he’d expected was to receive his first kiss from his mate. Jas pulled away slightly. He stared into Praid’s eyes for a moment, their lips only an inch apart. He opened and closed his mouth a few times then began to straighten.

Praid didn’t give himself time to think. He sprung forward and grabbed hold of Jas’s top yanking him closer again and crushing their lips together. This was new territory for him and he didn’t have the faintest idea what he was doing, but he didn’t intend to let the moment pass him by. It didn’t take long for Jas to take control. He slid his hands through Praid’s hair and held his head in place as he gently prodded his mouth, requesting entrance for his tongue. Praid opened willingly lapping at Jas’s mouth and wrapped his arms around Jas’s neck as he got up onto his knees. All too soon the moment ended. Jas slowly eased back from the kiss and rested his forehead on Praid’s while they both took in big gasps of air.

When they were breathing normally, he stood up straight. Praid’s hands slipped from around his neck and travelled slowly over the chest he’d wanted to touch for so long, before coming to rest on his knees. We’re not mistaken, he whispered.

Jas affectionately ran his hand through Praid’s hair. I know, but I don’t think this is right.

Praid leant into the hand, luxuriating in the touch of his mate. We’re mates. How can it be wrong?

With a sigh, Jas pulled his hand away and took a step back. Have you ever heard of two Ethereal males mating?

No, but—

There is no but. It’s not done, you know that. I just don’t understand how we can be mates. I think the best thing we could do is ignore it.

What? Praid gasped at yet another rejection. Then why did you kiss me?

Jas’s eyes met his again, the anguish in them plain to see. Because I had to know what it would feel like, but it won't happen again.

He quickly turned and went to leave the room. Praid couldn’t believe what he'd heard. He’d finally thought they were making progress, only to be knocked back down again. Jas.

His mate stopped at the door, though didn’t face him.

I can’t ignore it.

Jas rested his hand on the door panel. You must, he whispered before pressing a button to open the door and leaving the room.

With a heavy heart, Praid watched his mate walk away. As soon as the door shut behind him the first tear escaped from his eye. He wiped it away in surprise. He hadn’t cried since their planet had been destroyed and their families killed. Still, this was like losing his family too. His mate, the one person destiny chose just for him didn’t want him. Oh, he knew this was strange, two men being mated, but if that’s what destiny wanted who was he to argue? Apparently Jas thought differently.

Praid lay on his bed and hugged his pillow as more tears fell. He would let them flow for now. Tomorrow he would be strong again. He’d pretend his mate still waited out there for him. Not a few rooms away wishing for someone different. Tomorrow he’d work next to Jas and act like they are just friends. But tonight... tonight he intended to mourn for the mate he couldn’t have, for the life he wouldn’t get to lead, for the longing that would never be fulfilled.

Chapter 2

Jas Sane stared at the ceiling, wondering how long he could put off getting out of bed before anyone came looking for him. Others would notice if he didn’t show for breakfast and he was expected in the control room soon. He needed to make sure they'd stayed on course throughout the night.

His reluctance to move came from cowardice. He didn’t want to face Praid. If he was honest, he owed the other man an apology, but that’s all he did recently, apologise. He couldn’t talk to Praid without making their awkward situation worse. If only he knew what to do. You only got one mate. What were your options when the mate destiny chose for you wasn’t what you expected?

With a groan of frustration he got up and wandered into the cleansing room. Standing in the small cubicle he held out his arms and let himself be cleaned. Creets, a micro-organism, skimmed over his body creating a tingling sensation as they took away the daily grime. Once they'd finished, feeling refreshed, he headed back into the bedroom to dress.

The galley was a hub of energy when Jas entered not long after. Ariane and Brise stood to one side arguing over how to cook the morning broth.

Ari, come and sit down and let Brise do his job, Ax called across the room, signalling for Ariane to take a seat next to him.

But he’s doing it wrong, she said as she waved a hand at Ax and then turned back to Brise.

Jas paused in the doorway wondering where to sit. Praid sat with his head down, avoiding looking in his direction. Jas knew his choice was stupid but, the man was ignoring him. Yes, he’d said they should ignore the attraction, but that didn’t mean he wanted to be ignored altogether. He strolled purposefully across the room and sat in the seat beside Praid, who raised his head in surprise. Jas gave him a small smile then went back to observing the growing argument across the room.

You need to add more spice, Ariane insisted as she reached around Brise to pour the powder into the broth.

No, I don’t. Brise swiftly grabbed the spice from her hand and placed it on a high shelf out of her reach. Ax, get her under control.

Jas chuckled as Ariane gasped in outrage and jumped in an attempt to grab the bottle, her brown ponytail bobbing with her movements.

Ari, leave the man to cook, Ax said in a stern voice.

But he’s not...

Since when can you cook? Brise snapped, flipping his braided long hair over his shoulder and crossing his arms.

Everyone sniggered while Ariane glared at them. It was a well-known fact that Ariane couldn’t cook at all. If it required more than heating up, she was stuck.

Jas saw Praid’s lips twitch but since he was a nice guy he didn’t laugh, he was very considerate like that, and always had been.

With a huff, Ariane stomped away from the counter and dropped into her chair. You know I’m right, right?

Ax patted her hand placatingly. Of course you are.

Everyone chuckled earning themselves a few more glares from the fiery female. Jas watched Praid’s shoulders shake as he held in his laughter. His blue eyes sparkled with joy.

Jas are we still on course? Ax quickly asked to change the subject.

Jas swiftly met their leaders gaze. Yes, still on course and should hit the Sixth Galaxy in a few days.

Ax moved his gaze to Praid. And is our route thoroughly planned, Praid?

Praid’s head shot up, obviously not expecting the question. He opened and closed his mouth a few times before any sound came out. I... Last night...

It’s all planned. Jas intervened. We checked it again last night.

Praid’s eyes shot to his, a look of thanks in them. Jas was sure Praid had been checking the route when he’d upset him. The job probably hadn’t been finished, which would be why Praid appeared so panicked at the question. Jas wasn’t worried, though. Praid always completed his work thoroughly and would probably run to the control room to finish the job as soon as he’d done eating.

Ax moved on to questioning the others as Brise placed food in front of them. Jas picked at his meal and listened to the conversations taking place around him with half an ear. About halfway through, Praid shifted causing their legs to press together. He then stiffened in his seat and carefully moved the limb away.

Jas instantly missed the connection. Their thighs resting together felt so natural. He couldn’t help wondering what it would be like to reach out and touch Praid any time he wished. To place his arm on the back of the chair and run his fingers through the reddish-brown curly hair that skimmed Praid's neck. His eyes travelled to Ax and Ariane again. Ax had just leant over and given Ariane a kiss. He now held her hand on top of the table as he spoke to Dyan, their ship's gunner.

Jas felt his heart stutter at the sight. He wanted that. The ability to kiss his mate whenever he wished. To hold his hand and wrap his arms around him. The temptation to grab Praid's, dark blue tie and pull him closer with it nearly overwhelmed him. The others had laughed when he’d first worn the thing, but Jas loved it, especially when Praid got frustrated and loosened it, revealing the smooth column of his neck.

He wanted desperately to forget about the other men and not worry what they thought. But he couldn’t. What if they were disgusted? What if they asked him and Praid to leave? This was the only family they had left. He couldn’t handle losing them.

He needed to find another mate, a female one. Okay, not another mate, you could only have one of those. His eyes flicked to Praid. No, there would only be one mate for him but perhaps he could find someone else, someone he could be happy with.

He sat in silence and finished his meal. The conversation went on around him, though, if asked later he wouldn’t be able to repeat a word that was spoken. When everyone got up to leave the room his eyes automatically followed Praid. The other man put his plate in the dishwasher, put earbuds in and left the room without a backward glance. They really had to do something about their situation. They couldn’t go on like this. Sooner or later the others would notice things weren't right. They couldn’t live on a ship this size and keep secrets for long and this was a big secret.

A hand on his shoulder broke him from his musings.

You're awfully quiet, Bizax said taking a seat beside him.

Jas looked around the room, surprised to see they were the only two left. Just thinking, he said, taking his plate to be washed.

Bizax continued to stare at him while removing a black bug, the size of his hand, from his pocket and placing it on the table. Thinking about what?

The beetle, which Ariane had named Rex, climbed onto his friend's plate and began eating his leftovers.