Page 5 of Bounty Hunter's Match

“Classified,” I cut them off, wondering exactly what Larthul had been sharing about my bounty hunting career. “Ms. Bishop, we should discuss security protocols for the upcoming event.”

“Of course.” She gestured toward her office, and I definitely didn’t notice how the station’s lighting caught the auburn highlights in her hair. “Though I hope you’re prepared for some... unique challenges. Our clients can be rather creative about circumventing security measures.”

From the ceiling came a distinct snicker.

“The twins, for example,” she continued with a pointed look upward, “are theoretically banned from the ventilation system.”

“We’re gathering intelligence!” Risa protested.

“You’re spreading gossip,” Camden corrected. “And probably violating several privacy laws.”

“Only the boring ones,” Rina muttered.

This wasn’t just security - it was containment.

Camden’s office was... not what I expected. Instead of the frills and romantic decor that dominated the waiting area, this space was all clean lines and efficient design. Holographic displays showed complex algorithms I recognized from data mining operations. Security feeds - more than strictly legal for a civilian business - monitored key areas of the station.

“You’re surprised,” she noted, settling behind her desk. A small crystalline formation on the corner pulsed with soft light.

“Greetings, Barek,” a melodious voice emanated from the crystal. “I am MIRA, Perfect Match’s assistant. Your security credentials have been integrated into our systems.”

An AI. A highly sophisticated one, based on the natural speech patterns and apparent self-awareness. “That’s-”

“Completely approved and licensed,” Camden cut in smoothly. Too smoothly.

I let it slide. For now. “About the Valentine’s Gala-”

“Three planetary governors, two corporate spies, and one disaster-prone Thraxxian romance novelist.” She pulled up a security schematic. “All during peak Merrith mating season.”

“The species compatibility issues alone are a nightmare,” MIRA chimed in. “After what happened at the Winter Solstice mixer-”

“That was a completely different event,” Camden said firmly. “And this is our first Valentine’s Gala. It will be fine.”

“The first interspecies Valentine’s celebration in the sector,” MIRA noted. “What could possibly go wrong?”

“Don’t jinx it.”

I studied the schematics, noting several potential vulnerabilities. “These service corridors-”

“Are officially off-limits but regularly used by at least three different species for clandestine meetings.” She highlighted several spots. “The Nazok information network has identified the most popular locations. We usually post warnings about incompatible atmospheric requirements.”

“Usually?”

“Some species consider a little danger romantic.” Her lips curved slightly. “I assume you’ve been briefed on our client list?”

“Including Sarith Vask’s recent... interest.”

Something flickered across her face - concern? Annoyance? “Vask isn’t used to hearing ‘no.’ Especially not publicly.”

“The twins’ video probably didn’t help.”

“The twins’ video has tripled our client requests and sparked two minor diplomatic incidents.” She sighed. “Apparently, watching him get stuck in that door proved we won’t compromise our standards even for powerful clients.”

“Or that you enjoy humiliating them.”

“I prefer to think of it as ‘creative conflict resolution.’” Her green eyes met mine directly. “Speaking of which - how exactly did you end up losing a bet to Captain Larthul?”

The twins. Of course. “That’s-”

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