Programmed For Passion

By Jenna Ives

She needs to become an expert at sex...fast.

Having lost everyone she loved in the Great War, High Council aide Sie has no interest in romance or sentimentality. Only protection. The planet is currently at peace under the strong rule of her boss, premier Theus, but power-hungry rivals have already attempted to assassinate him. To gain the safety she craves, Sie plans to seduce the planet's powerful weapons manufacturer and secure a marriage proposal from him – and her best chance to do it is at an event in seven days. But Sie is a virgin, so she enlists the help of sexbot Keira to teach her the legendary sexual tricks of the planet’s Beautiful Dolls.

There’s just one problem: Keira says Sie needs a male to practice with.

Celis is working at the planet’s robot manufacturing facility under the watchful eye of Theus, in order to prevent Celis’ ambitious father from attempting a government coup. So when Sie asks to borrow a male robot for a project, Celis seizes on the opportunity to get close to Theus’ top aide and find out information that might benefit his father’s planned rebellion. Instead of the robot, Celis offers himself – a male, as she requested – for her needs.

With no other option and time running out, Sie grudgingly accepts. Celis is shocked when Sie reveals the true nature of her ‘project’ but he has no objection to practicing sexual tricks with a beautiful woman. They both have ulterior motives going into their lessons, but as their intimacy deepens, they must face the dangerous complication their emotional connection brings for the future of their planet.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Jenna Ives
• Release date: Oct 5, 2022
• ISBN: 9781005691776

Jenna Ives

Jenna Ives has the typical problem that affects a lot of modern authors — multiple personality disorder. She writes for several publishers under a variety of names, but mostly the reason is to keep her poor sainted mother (who used to read sweet Harlequin novels) from having a heart attack over how sexy modern romances have become!And Jenna certainly DOES write sexy...

Book preview

Programmed For Passion

Jenna Ives

eBooks are not transferable. They cannot be sold, shared or given away as it is an infringement on the copyright of this work.

This book is a work of fiction. The names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the writer’s imagination or have been used fictitiously and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, actual events, locale or organizations is entirely coincidental.

Programmed For Passion

Copyright © 2022 by Jenna Ives

First E-Book Edition

Cover by VT Design

Formatting by coversbykaren.com

All Rights Are Reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in reviews.

Also by Jenna Ives:

Contemporary romance

The Initiation of Isabella

Snow White and Her Seven Lovers

Sci-fi romance

The Edge of Time

Futuristic romance

Programmed To Please

Programmed To Protect

Programmed For Power

***

Table of Contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

About the Author

Don’t miss the first installment of The Tau Cetus Chronicles…

Programmed To Please

Excerpt from Programmed To Please: Book One of the Tau Cetus Chronicles by Jenna Ives

Don’t miss the second installment of The Tau Cetus Chronicles…

Programmed To Protect

Excerpt from Programmed To Protect: Book Two of the Tau Cetus Chronicles by Jenna Ives…

Don’t miss the third installment of The Tau Cetus Chronicles…

Programmed For Power

Don’t miss the third installment of The Tau Cetus Chronicles…

Excerpt from Programmed For Power: Book Three of the Tau Cetus Chronicles by Jenna Ives…

Chapter One

Sie, I need you to take charge of my Beautiful Doll sex robot.

Sie Maren stared in surprise at her boss Theus, the powerful premier of Tau Cetus. Take charge of it, sir?

Sitting behind his desk in the darkened underground office of the High Council headquarters, Theus smiled. Which surprised Sie even more. In her ten years working as an aide to the Council, she’d never once seen the premier smile.

Theus waved a casual hand. I don’t need Keira anymore. Arrange to transport it to Leith Wyatt’s manufacturing facility and have it reconfigured into a robot soldier, as we did with the other Dolls when we retired them from their primary function last year. The Council agreed they are too dangerous, too addicting as sexbots. It’s time for Keira to be outfitted to defend the planet.

Sie hesitated. Keira had been with Theus for more than four years. He’d relied on the Doll for all his sexual needs until just recently.

Sir, I’m scheduled to accompany your fiancée into the city today.

Theus’ smile broadened. I know. You’ll be searching for her wedding dress.

Sie shifted on her feet. She was unsettled by this recent change in the premier. Since Leora Smith had come into his life, Theus had softened almost beyond recognition. During all of Sie’s service to the High Council, one goal had dominated every other: peace on the planet. Theus had ruled here with an iron fist, forcefully putting down insurrection, relentlessly searching out conspirators, and quickly executing traitors. The Great War had nearly destroyed Tau Cetus a decade ago and there was nothing more important now than maintaining peace.

Everything and everyone was in service to that ideal.

That’s why the High Council had been created. Counsellors had been gathered from the four most powerful regions of Tau Cetus to serve with Theus and ensure unity and harmony on the planet.

Yes, peace was paramount.

There was only one thing Sie believed Theus had been as obsessed with as peace, and that was his sex robot. Statuesque, black-haired, blue-eyed Keira. The perfect artificial woman.

Nothing like Sie, who with her pixie-style silvery-blonde hair and petite physique could never hope to enslave a powerful man like Theus. Or any man, for that matter. She sighed inwardly.

I’ll take care of it, sir.

Theus nodded, the dismissal unspoken.

Sie turned and left the office, heading down a warren of artificially-lit underground security corridors toward the living quarters of the premier. Since the end of the Great War, Theus had resided in this thick-walled missile-proof underground headquarters for his own protection. It was a subterranean stronghold in which Sie often lost track of the days, and definitely whether it was light or dark in the outside world. But the security precautions were necessary. In the last decade, there had been six attempts on the premier’s life. Thankfully, none had been successful.

Sie’s pale skin – which rarely saw the sun – was a small price to pay for Theus’ safety.

But for the first time in her decade of service, Sie was feeling unsure about her future here. Theus seemed to need her less than before he’d met Leora. Not that he’d ever entrusted her with secrets of state, but Sie’s day-to-day assignments were fewer than before. It made her uneasy. She’d come to rely on the protection of these thick walls, the security of the impregnable underground fortress, and the satisfaction of being in service to the High Council and to world peace.

What would her future hold if she lost her position here?

Sie’s stomach knotted at the thought, but she pushed the feeling aside as she arrived at the mahogany door of the premier’s living quarters and knocked.

The door immediately opened to the warm smile of Leora Smith.

Sie! Come in, come in.

Looking into Leora’s face, Sie felt it hard to begrudge Theus his happiness with this human woman. Theus had lost his wife and child in the Great War. That he’d come to love the prisoner he’d initially thought had stolen a valuable keepsake from him had been a surprise to everyone.

Sie stepped through the door.

Leora was dressed in the simple robe of a High Council aide, one of two uniforms issued to them. The other was the one Sie was wearing – a military-style tailored jacket and skirt. Leora’s robe would act as a disguise, of sorts, today. It would allow her to go out into the city in relative safety, since it had been agreed that only a handful of people would be informed that she and the premier were to wed.

There was good reason for holding that information close. If Theus acknowledged to the world he and Leora were married, her life could be endangered by anyone who wanted to get to the premier through her.

So the guise of a High Council aide was for Leora’s protection, to allow her some measure of freedom. Still, Theus had decreed that Sie and Leora would be accompanied by two security guards, also dressed as High Council aides. In the hustle and bustle of the capital, hopefully no one would give them a second glance.

Leora looked down at herself and smoothed a hand along the side of her silk robe. I picked this one because I thought it would be easier to take off while I try on dresses.

Sie nodded. Of course.

I’m so excited. This will be my first time outside this underground bunker since I arrived, and my first visit to the capital in almost two years. I’m looking forward to smelling fresh air. Leora wrinkled her nose. Well, as fresh as it can be in a city of one million people.

Sie raised an eyebrow but didn’t smile at Leora’s wry comment. She had too much on her mind.

What’s wrong, Sie?

Sie hesitated. Over the course of the last month, she had gotten to know – and to like – Leora Smith. But could Sie trust her with the idea that had started percolating in her head on her way here from the premier’s office? Would Leora think it foolish, or worse, outright crazy?

She threw a glance at the door of the utility closet located just inside the apartment’s entrance. Theus has asked me to arrange the transport of his Beautiful Doll to our robot factory.

Leora’s gaze went to the door as well. I know. We’ve been discussing it. It’s sort of creepy to still have it here with us.

Sie walked over to the small closet, put a hand on the doorknob and pulled the door open. Keira was standing there, eyes closed, obviously in hibernation mode. She wore a sheer silk sarong that did little to hide her perfect physique.

The sight of the Doll made the idea germinating in Sie’s brain grow larger. She turned back to Leora. I wish to speak with you about something…personal. And ask that you keep our conversation confidential.

Of course, Sie. You can trust me.

Sie took a deep breath, then let it out slowly. I am a virgin.

Leora’s eyes widened. This was obviously not what she’d been expecting to hear. A virgin?

Yes.

To her credit, Leora wiped the surprise from her face and laid a gentle hand on Sie’s forearm. You’ve never had a serious relationship?

Sie shook her head stiffly. I’ve dedicated my life to my work here. And that’s a problem. I’m twenty-four, and I need to become an expert at sex.

Leora frowned. "An expert at sex? But… why?"

I have observed that sex gives a woman power over a man. Since Theus has been with you, he’s changed. You have power over him.

Sie, Leora said gently, sex isn’t about power, it’s how two people show their love for one another.

I have no wish to love anyone. Sie bristled. All those I once cared for – my entire family – died in the Great War. I couldn’t survive that kind of pain again.

Leora paused, her face softening. I know. You’ve told me. I’m sorry.

Sie shook off Leora’s pity. I only wish to find someone who will protect me. Sex will help me secure that man, convince him to marry me. The Beautiful Dolls addicted men with no emotional attachment on the Doll’s part. I can do the same.

That sounds rather cold and calculated, Leora said, frowning.

Sie shrugged.

But why the urgency to find a man right now? Leora pressed.

Sie hesitated. I feel the premier is losing confidence in me. He no longer relies on me as he once did.

"Of course he relies on you. He’s entrusting you to arrange delivery of his Doll to the robot factory. Very few people are aware that Theus even had a Doll. Plus, you are one of only a handful of people who know that Theus and I are marrying. So how can you say he no longer needs you?"

Sie’s jaw set. I know how I feel. And you’ve promised to keep this conversation private.

Leora frowned, but then sighed. Very well. Did you have a particular man in mind you want protecting you?

Zan Talesin.

Leora’s eyebrows rose. Our weapons manufacturer?

Yes. He has power. He can safeguard me. And of those with that kind of power, he is the only unwed man I know.

Leora tilted her head to the side, as if considering Sie’s choice. Zan is a good man. My brother Marque would never have trusted Zan as his second-in-command if he weren’t. And Zan is definitely handsome with his black hair and gray eyes, and not too much older than you. But… do you know him at all? Would you consider marrying him simply because he’s unwed?

His physical appearance matters little, Sie responded. But like you, I also believe he is a good man. I formed that judgment when I told him Theus was holding you prisoner, and he went to the premier to lobby for your release.

He did? This was obviously new information to Leora.

Yes. It was back when the premier still believed you’d stolen that diamond from him.

Both women looked down at the huge stone gracing Leora’s left hand – the centerpiece of the engagement ring Theus had given her when she’d agreed to marry him.

Thank goodness Theus finally listened to reason and believed I had nothing to do with the theft, Leora said, then paused and turned back to Sie. So, you want to secure a powerful man to protect you, and you think to use sex to do it. I suppose it's possible that strategy might work if you were very good at giving a man pleasure, but you’ve just said you’re a virgin. Are you coming to me for sexual instruction?

Not you. Sie shook her head and turned toward the utility closet. Keira can teach me all she knows.

At the mention of its name, the Beautiful Doll opened its artificial starburst blue eyes and scanned the room. Hello, Sie.

I am here to inform you that you will be transported to our robot factory. Theus has finished with your services.

The Doll showed no emotion at this news. Yes, Sie.

Sie gaze narrowed. Keira, just out of curiosity, how many sexual positions are you programmed for?

I am capable of one-hundred-fifty primary positions, plus twenty advanced techniques.

The sheer number almost made Sie’s jaw drop. How would she ever learn more than a hundred different sexual positions? She cleared her throat self-consciously. Um, in your experience, are there a few positions in particular that are favored by men?

Certainly. There are approximately a dozen postures that most men prefer.

Sie let out a short sigh of relief. Twelve. Sie could certainly master twelve sexual techniques in a week, couldn’t she?

My future depends on it.

She nodded. Very well. Return to hibernation mode.

Yes, Sie.

The Doll dutifully shut its eyes. Sie closed the utility closet door and turned back to Leora. My intent is to deliver the Doll to Leith Wyatt today but convince him to delay reconfiguring Keira for one week. I will claim it is because I am studying the Doll’s intricate programming, that I’m fascinated by its potential for sentience and don’t wish to lose this opportunity before it’s turned into a mindless robot soldier. In reality, I will visit Keira every day for sexual lessons.

Why delay the conversion for just one week? Leora asked.

Zan Taliesen will be at your wedding in seven days. I will know how to seduce and secure him by then.

Leora rolled her eyes, as if doubting Sie’s assessment, but then frowned. Why transport the Doll to the robot factory? Why not bring it in your quarters here and undertake your lessons at your leisure?

Sie shook her head. Impossible. Every movement in the High Council headquarters is monitored for security reasons. I would never be able to sneak Keira into my apartments. No. I must convince Leith Wyatt to give me privacy to study the Doll, and then transact the lessons there.

Leora put a gentle hand on Sie’s forearm. Sie, to some men, a woman’s virginity is a precious gift. Even more valuable than her sexual skills. And besides, simply seducing a man doesn't necessarily mean you will ensnare him for life or gain his protection.

Sie set her jaw. "Experience, not ignorance, will secure Commander Talesin. This will work. I will make it work. But I do have one favor to ask of you."

What is that?

Will you accompany me to the manufacturing facility? It’s just outside the city.

Leora seemed to understand Sie was asking for moral support. Of course. I’m not at all convinced this plan of yours will work, but let’s deliver the Doll and then go search for my wedding dress.

#

Celis Jaqan’s personal communication device beeped in his pocket. He pulled out the device and scanned the message from his boss, Leith Wyatt.

See me.

Celis frowned. Almost two months ago, his father had been manipulated into letting Tau Cetus’ premier, Theus, take Celis from his home and bring him here to the capital. Ostensibly, it was to afford him the opportunity to study the workings of robot and weapons manufacturing – as well as the workings of the High Council – but in reality, it was to keep his father, Regulator Collis Jaqan, in line back home in Terra Acer. Theus believed his father entertained ideas of a coup. He was right, but Celis’ father wouldn’t chance it while Celis was, in effect, a hostage.

But if Theus thought using Celis as a pawn was a simple solution to a dangerous problem, he was dead wrong. Celis was determined to learn all he could here – information he could eventually use to help his father.

Celis’ PCD beeped again with Wyatt’s message. Wyatt was a man of few words, but those few were usually important. And requiring immediate attention. Celis stepped away from the computer program he was working on and hustled down one of the robot factory’s corridors to his boss’s office.

Sir?

Wyatt was seated behind his desk. He pushed back his chair and ran a hand through