Releasing Maladek by Victoria Aveline

Turns out crash-landing into love is possible…
Katie is content with her post-alien-abduction life. Not only has she found work as a royal attendant, but her current assignment on a galaxy cruise is enjoyable, too…until the ship is brought down by a malevolent species. Now she must rescue her friends and escape a hostile planet—all by herself. Then she crosses paths with a sexy stranger who changes everything…
Forced labor in an enemy prison camp was nowhere on Maladek’s agenda. But his own troubles will have to wait. Because against all odds, his mate is here. Now he has to focus on getting her to safety—and convincing her that fated mates are real. It would all be so much easier if he had more experience being a hero…
The circumstances are dire. Their timing couldn’t be worse. Even if they manage to escape their captors, is a happily ever after possible for Katie and Maladek? They’re about to find out…
***This novella was originally published in the 2022 charity anthology Claimed Among the Stars, but now features two all-new bonus chapters and an epilogue.