I wheezed, “My hu... hus...”

“Husband,” finished James. “Although we Volardi say Lifelong Bond Mate.”

Still someone I have to sleep with.

He stopped at a curved silver door. “You are Volardi now, and we gave you additional freedom.” His expression turned solemn. “Do not abuse this.” With that, he smiled. “This is your room until you are bonded, and you agree he is your mate.”

My eyes blinked fast. “I have to agree?”

“Yes. It’s the bonding experience that completes the joining.”

Maybe I can use that?

My experience with the Volardi told me not to be so overt. Outright refusal or the perception of not working with them, was out of the question. However, if it appeared I tried then failed, I might make it out. I’d get my total Humanity back instead of this weird fertile body. Chances didn’t look good, but that was all I could hope for.

Unlike the walls that melted open, this one had an overt door, and it slid open as I approached. In my side vision, James left without a goodbye.

Maybe that’s some of that freedom?

Nothing to do except go in.

I suppose I could run but then what? Stuck up here with the Volardi? No, I had to play this smart. For now, that meant being a well... good little Omega.

The door closed behind me. It looked like I entered a hotel room, although futuristic – at least from my perspective. Lights were low and in a soft baby blue. On one side, I saw a mirror or large monitor near a white chair. It reminded me of the vanity makeup area Becky had except sleeker and nicer. Please tell me I’m not expected to dress up.

A bed sat to the far center. A black hot tub looking thing was in the middle of the room. Two large windows were to my left. I walked slow and felt the soft tug with each step. Every step had a slight bounce. I couldn’t say if it was due to my new body, something about the floor, or maybe the gravity. All three for all I knew. I swallowed hard as I saw Earth shine through the window.

Some astronaut I turned out to be.

Well… I’m going where no man… most men haven’t gone before.

I wouldn’t be the first though. Still… squeezing a baby out. How would that feel?

I was enjoying the beauty of the white swirls over brown and blue when I saw my reflection in the black. It wasn’t a true mirror but enough to show me my face.

My eyes widened as the dark reflection waved back at me.

I turned.

There in a similar white robe was… me with a wide grin.

“What that hell are you?”

My twin opened his mouth, and I raised my eyebrows at my almost musical voice. Instead of the normal Tennessee tone, it was like speech-singing. More melody than normal words but not a song. “Greetings. I’m your Acclimation Simulacrum.”