Page 8 of Bounty Hunter's Match

“Like you and your Vinduthi?” She swirled thoughtfully. “I noticed how carefully he maintains optimal distance while staying within protective range. Very traditional.”

My cheeks burned. “Barek is security, not-”

“Oh! Is this one of those human courtship customs where you pretend not to be interested?” Her form rippled excitedly. “I read about those! Should I pretend not to notice Dr. Vren’s perfect molecular symmetry?”

Behind her, Barek’s expression remained professionally blank, but his ears twitched again.

“Let’s focus on your situation,” I managed. “I’ve arranged a meeting space with specialized atmospheric controls. You and Dr. Vren can practice maintaining a solid form while sharing conversation. No molecular merging attempts.”

“Traditional.” She sighed, her edges blurring. “I suppose that’s more romantic than my quantum fusion proposal.”

“Much more romantic,” I agreed, pulling up the environmental chamber’s specs. “And less likely to trigger station-wide security protocols.”

“Speaking of security,” she swirled toward Barek. “The twin information gatherers are hosting a video series about courtship customs. Perhaps you could share insights about Vinduthi traditions? Dr. Vren follows their channel, and cross-species perspectives are so enlightening...”

“No,” Barek growled.

But it was too late. The twins’ voices drifted through the ceiling vent: “Did someone say Vinduthi traditions?”

“Live in ten minutes!”

“Special guest appearance!”

“No,” Barek repeated, but I saw his hand brush that pocket again.

“Think of it as cultural exchange,” I suggested. “Very professional. Intelligence gathering, even.”

His red eyes narrowed. “You’re enjoying this.”

“I never enjoy my clients’ happiness.” I managed to keep a straight face. “Or my security detail’s discomfort. That would be unprofessional.”

“Bishop.”

“Yes?”

“You’re lying.”

“Probably.” I smiled. “But you’re still going to do the interview.”

His growl held no real heat. “Why?”

“Because it’s good for business. Because the twins will only get more creative if you refuse. And because,” I tapped the hidden pamphlet, “you’re curious.”

For a moment, he looked like he might argue. Then his lips curved slightly - not quite a smile, but close. “One interview. No personal questions.”

“Of course not.” I opened the door, where the twins were already setting up their equipment. “Though you might want to review chapter three of that pamphlet first. The section on non-verbal cues could be... relevant.”

His low growl followed me out, but I noticed he didn’t deny it.

The twins’ studio setup took over my waiting room, transforming the space with strategic lighting and floating holocams. Risa perched cross-legged on a suspended chair while her sister fine-tuned the equipment.

“Welcome to Dating Customs 101!” Risa beamed at the main camera. “Today’s special guest is-”

“A security professional who will not be discussing classified information,” Barek cut in, folding his arms.

“Ooh, mysterious!” Rina winked at the camera. “Our viewers love mysterious.”

“Today’s topic: Vinduthi courtship traditions! Like that thing with the ritual combat-”

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