Page 40 of Bounty Hunter's Match

“Trust me.” I tapped my nose. “Some things technology can’t detect.”

The office door slid open as Barek emerged, his gear reflecting the artificial sunlight. Our markings aligned perfectly when he drew me close, his fingers brushing the sensitive spot on my neck where he’d first claimed me.

“Security breach in section four?” I asked against his chest.

“Handled.” His thumb traced one of my markings. “The Merrith trade representative tried accessing restricted courtship records again.”

“Did you at least avoid property damage this time?”

“Minimal.” His smile pressed against my hair. “Though MIRA may need to recalibrate the gravity controls in that section.”

“Again?” But I was already laughing. “The twins will be thrilled. More footage for their cultural guides.”

“Speaking of footage...” Rina’s voice carried from somewhere above. “That intimate moment would make excellent content for our next relationship advice stream.”

“Delete it.” Barek didn’t look up.

“But the viewers-”

“Now.”

“Fine.” Risa’s sigh echoed through the ventilation shaft. “But you’re ruining our documentary series.”

“Tragic.” I tilted my head to meet Barek’s eyes. “Ready for the afternoon clients?”

“The one wanting to marry into three different species?” His fingers lingered on my claiming marks. “Or the Zeqnid seeking ‘perfectly resonant’ partnership vibrations?”

“Both.” I straightened his vest. “Plus whatever chaos the twins cause with their new cultural guide.”

“Vinduthi Courtship Rituals: A Comprehensive Study.” He groaned. “I saw the draft.”

“That bad?”

“They included diagrams.”

Before I could reply, the environmental controls failed completely. Artificial gravity fluctuated as temperature warnings flashed across every screen.

“Minor technical difficulties.” MIRA’s crystals spun innocently. “Though the emergency suite does have independent systems...”

“Not now.” But I was smiling as Barek steadied me. “We have clients waiting.”

“The Orlian’s resonance patterns indicate optimal compatibility in zero gravity conditions.” MIRA’s calculations whirled. “Perhaps if-”

“No.” We spoke in perfect unison.

The gravity stabilized as we reached the main office. Barek took his usual position by the security console while I pulled up client files. Our movements flowed together, practiced and precise. A year of working as partners had taught us each other’s rhythms.

“The Selenthian ambassador recommended us to another trade delegation.” I noted the new appointments. “Apparently Vask’s successful match impressed them.”

“As long as no one attempts interpretive dance this time.” Barek’s fingers flew across the security controls. “The station’s structural integrity-”

“Cannot handle Mondian courtship rituals.” I finished with him. “Yes, dear.”

His smile reached his eyes - the private one reserved just for me. My markings tingled in response as our gazes met.

“Privacy mode engaged.” MIRA announced smugly. “The next client meeting isn’t for twenty minutes...”

“We have work to do.” But I was already moving toward Barek.

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