This is supposed to be a diplomatic mission. The big guy will lock me in the brig if I breach security on the Cyraelian com systems. Anyway, I thought you were pumping her for information last night?” A slow red tide crept up Jake’s neck and Pete roared with laughter. “You struck out? I don’t believe it. The biggest womanizer in six galaxies and you struck out? There is a god after all.” “Please, Pete, just take a look.” “Not a chance.” Pete swiveled in his chair and turned to face the monitor. Jake turned on the view-screen and looked at the yellow planet. Far below them was the vast tract of desert, which made up most of the southern hemisphere of Cyraelia. He had commed Tanith at her office several times and at her home, but she hadn’t responded to any of his messages. Either she didn’t want to see him again or she was in trouble because of him. Both options gave him a sick feeling in the pit of his stomach. Pete was the only one who could help him. “I’ll get you a date with Ensign Nakamara,”
