Price of a Bounty

-Scott-

A Call from a Friend



My personal transceiver buzzed, “Maddock here.”

“Hi, Scott!”

I recognized the voice so I turned on the vidscreen for verification. “Rick! What’s up?”

“We have a friend in common. Her name is Madeline.”

How did they meet? In case anyone was tracking this call, I would keep it light, a conversation between friends. “Yes, Maddie! Wonderful girl.”

“Beautiful too!”

“Sure is!”

“I understand you know her pretty well. What’s your opinion of her?”

“She’s loyal and trustworthy. She’s a good find!”

“How much does she know about me?” Rick asked.

I shrugged. “We’ve never talked about you.”

“You’ve known her for a long time, haven’t you?”

I nodded.

“Well, have you ever, you know?”

If anyone was listening in, they would think we were talking about something else entirely, but I knew what Rick was really asking. He wanted to know how much I’d told Keira about the Resistance. The answer was, nothing.

“No. Circumstances were never right. And I guess I just wasn’t sure how she would react. How long have you known her?”

“Not long, but it feels like we know each other pretty well already.”

“Who made the first move, if I may ask?”

“She did.”

So Keira had somehow learned about the Resistance, and she knew Rick was a contact. What else does she know? Why did she contact him? Is she interested in joining, or does she need help? Too little information could be dangerous. It was time to tell her.

“In my opinion, she’s trustworthy but not trusting.”

“Well, I thought a good start might be roses, but I don’t know. Maybe it’s too soon? Do you know what other flowers she likes – something more casual perhaps?”

“Flowers?” This wasn’t about flowers. “I don’t know, but I can find out for you.”

“Thanks! I’d really like to make a connection, if you know what I mean.”

I understood completely. Guy needed to get in touch with Keira, and it was important. I looked at the time. Those drills wouldn’t run themselves.

“I have to go. But I’ll talk with her soon and find out what kind of flowers she likes. Good luck!”