Page 38 of Accounting for Taste

“I will tell Ra to expect contact.”

She heard him speaking into a com.She idly ran through the requests for help until she found one that had a familiar name.It wasn’t begging for help; it was demanding it.There was a very angry Terran at the end of that letter.Reem did what she could.She expedited it to every bit of tech that Rath owned.

She heard a response in a few minutes.Enough, Comptroller.You are right.It deserves our attention.How did you get through my security?

It is just something I know how to do.You will send someone to help them?They were lied to.Those are worthless contracts.

Yes, now that you have made me look...everywhere...I understand that.Who is your Hmrain?

I have a companion contract with Wenvari.It will start when I am out of here.

Where is here?

A restructuring unit on Aten.

Why?

I had a brain implant and multiple Hmrain DNA in here along with my own.It has been a long session.

Hours?

Twenty-one days.

“Who are you talking to, Reem?”

She flashed the Hmrain spelling of Rath on his screen.

“Reem, disconnect at once.”

She spoke to Rath.Wenvari is upset that I am speaking with you.Thank you for listening to my concerns.Please let me know if I can help in any way.

There was soft laughter through the link.I know why he is upset.If I were there instead of here, he would be up for a fight, and he would lose.

Why?

Because you are from a unique species with a unique set of skills.I do believe you are also a singular female.Wenvari would be a fool not to guard you.If he ever lets your contract lapse, contact me.If I am available, I am at your service.

Um, thank you, Lord Rath.

There was a deep chuckle through the com, and the call was disconnected.

She wrote in text,I am no longer communicating with Rath.

“Good.He’s aggressive and might try to steal you.There aren’t any others like you, and I want to keep you with me.”

She spelled out,Five-year contract, right?No worries.

“Once we confirm compatibility, I would like to sign an addendum.To the original.”

Why?Five years is a while.

“Because, unlike my experiences on my world, I know now what kind of a determined creature you are.Your skills and fearlessness are astonishing.”

I was afraid, but there was no option.It was succeed or die trying.

He sighed.“I thought as much.The Terrans who knew you are bringing gifts of fruit and clothing for you.They are going without their rations in order to ensure your comfort.”

The unit’s message changed toComplete.Injectors pulled out of her arms, and all holes were sealed.

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