Page 15 of Bounty Hunter’s Match (Vinduthi Captured Mates #6)

“ Third floor environmental controls offline again?” I balanced on the railing outside Perfect Match’s expanded offices, gazing down on the clients below. “That’s the second time this week.”

“Not my fault.” MIRA’s crystals sparkled with innocence. “Though the Orlian delegation did request cooler temperatures for their courtship negotiations.”

“Right.” I dropped down to the deck below, landing with the enhanced grace Barek’s claiming had given me. The Orlian’s sand-colored skin rippled as they tracked my movement. “Let me guess - you suggested the traditional desert cavity networks would provide optimal privacy?”

“Their molecular structures are completely compatible.” MIRA’s calculations spun across her interface. “The resonance patterns align perfectly during their shared meditation cycles.”

“The station’s structure can’t handle more tunnel networks.” But I was already reaching for my datapad. “Remember the Sylphid phase-shifting incident?”

“That was an isolated event.” Her crystals pulsed with a knowing confidence. “And they’re still our highest-rated success story.”

“They’re living in the maintenance shafts.”

“The acoustics are excellent for harmonic bonding.”

I shook my head, tracking the Orlian couple’s progress through the promenade. Their movements flowed like windblown sand, but their scents carried notes of uncertainty. The enhanced senses from Barek’s claiming let me pick up subtle chemical shifts that indicated compatibility - or its absence.

“They’re not ready.” I made a note in their file. “The younger one still carries grief-markers from their previous mate.”

“My algorithms indicate-”

“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.

“The cultural guide needs reviewing.” His hands settled on my waist. “For accuracy.”

“Professional obligation.” I wound my arms around his neck. “Can’t have the twins publishing incorrect information.”

“Exactly.” His mouth brushed mine. “Just maintaining quality control.”

The kiss deepened as he pulled me closer. My markings burned where they aligned with his, the bond between us humming with shared need.

A crash echoed from the outer office.

“I demand an immediate consultation!” An unfamiliar voice boomed. “My molecular structure requires perfect resonance with three different species!”

“The privacy protocols-” One of the twins protested.

“Are irrelevant! I have submitted the required documentation regarding my unique biological requirements!”

Barek’s forehead pressed against mine as we shared a silent laugh.

“Here we go again.” I straightened my clothes.

“At least it’s not interpretive dance.” He stole one last kiss before releasing me.

“Yet.” I squeezed his hand. “Ready?”

“Always.”

The door slid open to reveal chaos - floating furniture, agitated clients, and the twins’ recording drones capturing every moment. But Barek’s warmth stayed at my back, our markings humming in perfect harmony.

Whatever came next, we’d face it together.

“Welcome to Perfect Match.” I stepped forward, professional smile in place. “What sort of love are you looking for?”

The new client launched into an elaborate explanation involving molecular resonance and species-specific bonding requirements. Behind me, Barek radiated silent amusement.

Just another day at the galaxy’s premier matchmaking agency.

At least until the gravity failed again.

“MIRA...”

“Optimal conditions for cross-species bonding?” The AI’s crystals sparkled with innocence.

Barek caught me as I floated upward, his hands steady on my waist. Our markings aligned perfectly.

“Maybe we should have stayed in privacy mode.” His smile brushed my ear.

“Probably.” I linked my fingers with his. “Too late now.”

“Minor technical difficulties.” MIRA announced as objects began floating past the viewport. “Though the recording opportunities...”

“MIRA!” But I was already out the door, Barek at my side.

Whatever came next, we’d handle it.

Even if the twins documented every moment.

Even if MIRA’s “technical difficulties” seemed suspiciously well-timed.

Even if our impossible clients kept finding new ways to test station infrastructure.

We were claimed. Connected. Partners in every way that mattered.

The rest was just details.

Interesting, occasionally explosive, thoroughly documented details.

But that was life at Perfect Match.

With my perfect mate.

And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Traps aren't only made of steel. Sometimes, they're forged from desire.

I've spent years as the servant of Landar, a cruel smuggler who delights in tormenting me. When the Vinduthi bounty hunter Kaelith kills my master, I seize my chance at freedom. But to earn it, I must lead Kaelith to Landar's secret treasure trove. As we face the horrors lurking in the depths of the derelict station, I find myself drawn to this lethal predator. His touch ignites a fire within me, but can I trust a man who kills without mercy?

I'm on the run in the deadly Crimson Sands, desperate to escape my abusive master. But now a dangerous Vinduthi bounty hunter is on my trail - and he always catches his prey.

As Rokan relentlessly tracks me through the treacherous desert, the sizzling tension between us ignites.

I know I should keep running from this lethal, alluring male. But if he catches me, would surrendering to our forbidden desire be so terrible?

Rokan may be my pursuer, but his fierce embrace is starting to feel more like where I truly belong...