Kelfin skillfully parked his two-seater transport cycle around the corner. The hum of its engine faded as he activated the security shield. A glance at the dilapidated buildings and the faces of the destitute residents revealed the harsh reality of life in this desolate area. It was a place where the only inhabitants were those who had been left with no other choices. A breeze carrying the scent of unwashed bodies and neglected latrines overpowered the stench of refuse that permeated the area. His shiver was less from the chill than from the scene he surveyed through the shimmering energy field that separated him from the intake camp. Kelfin’s heart sank as he passed through the gate and made his way to the building. It was worse than he remembered. The people relegated to staying outside the shelter were hollow shells, their eyes void of hope. The sense of futility washed over him as he anticipated that this endeavor might prove to be a waste of time. With a heavy sigh, he mentally braced himself for what lay ahead and stepped into the shelter. The atmosphere inside was thick with emotions – fear, despair, hate, regret, and shame. Kelfin glanced around momentarily, attempting to acclimate to the palpable despair radiating from the residents. A guard approached, breaking the uneasy silence. “Are you looking to sponsor or for day work?” the guard inquired, his tone carrying a hint of detachment. “Sponsor,” Kelfin replied, his eyes still scanning the surroundings, harboring doubts about finding what he needed. “They clean up better than you’d guess,” the guard remarked apathetically, as though reciting a script he had repeated countless times. Kelfin inclined his head toward the despondent residents. “Is this everyone?” The guard nodded his eyes heavy with boredom. “For now. Is there something you’re looking for?” “Nothing I can describe,” Kelfin admitted, glancing at the guard. “You said ‘for now.’ Is there another group coming?” The guard nodded again. “Another ship is due in any minute. It takes a few hours to get them all disembarked and processed.” “Can I watch them disembark?” Kelfin asked, a glimmer of hope in his voice. Perhaps the newcomers wouldn’t be as downtrodden. The guard shrugged with indifference. “If you want.” “What about speeding up processing, if I find what I need?” The guard laughed. “That will cost you. Talk to the boss.” He pointed to where the office was. There was a perimeter around it keeping the population out. Kelfin looked around the shelter, hoping to find someone, anyone who might satisfy his needs. The air was thick with the smell of sweat and desperation. The walls were stained with dirt and grime, and the few lights overhead flickered dimly. The sound of shuffling feet and murmured conversations filled the space. As he made his way to the doors where the ship would dock, Kelfin noticed a few others in nice clothes waiting. They stood out among the disheveled and downtrodden crowd. The single-file line of people in dirty, threadbare clothing stumbled out of the ship with glazed eyes. Glazed eyes and a collective weariness marked the arrivals. Some ships used drugs to keep the transfers docile during the journey, a practice against regulations. That was likely the cause of the extended processing time upon arrival. The fear emanating from those disembarking threatened to overwhelm Kelfin. However, as he scanned the line, his focus honed in on a woman with a disheveled ponytail. Acting on instinct, he reached for her arm, locking eyes with her. Holding her gaze momentarily, he felt the collective fear of the others dissipate. If she did that here… He let the thought fade. Her own fear was bad enough. “Come with me. I’ll be your sponsor. I have a job for you,” he said. The woman frowned, worrying about what kind of job he had in mind, but she followed him without a word. Yes, she’d definitely been drugged. He led her to the office and knocked on the door. “What do you need? I’m busy,” a harried voice came. “I have a transfer I need to be processed. I can’t stay,” Kelfin called through the door. The door was thrown open and a self-important-looking man gazed down his nose at them. “You’ll have to wait. It takes a while to process them.” Kelfin rolled his eyes. “I already know she’s been drugged. I don’t care. I want her now.” “We need to check her for illnesses,” the manager claimed. Kelfin knew that was a lie. They were supposed to run the tests before sending them. Kelfin put a hand on her forehead to check for a fever. “Open your mouth.” The woman complied. He looked at her throat. It was fine to his untrained eye. “Are you sick?” The woman shook her head. “She’s fine.” The manager started to protest but Kelfin cut him off. “Your tests are no more conclusive. I’ll take my chances. I’m leaving in five minutes with or without her. But if I go without her, I’ll talk to Shor in Mor’s HR department and tell him to cancel the standing order.” The manager’s eye narrowed. “Why would he listen to you?” Kelfin looked at him blandly. “Because I’m his boss. We’ve already looked into getting them directly.” The man sighed. “Fine.” He filled out the paperwork and Kelfin transferred the money to the intake’s account. The man’s eyes grew wide when he saw the name on the account. “Thank you, sir. It was good doing business with you, sir. Come again if you need anyone else.” “Unlikely that I will,” Kelfin said and left, bringing the woman with him. He paused outside the intake camp. It felt good to be outside. It would feel better to be home. Kelfin led her to his transport, a narrow two-wheeled vehicle that was rare in the other provinces. Some outlawed them. Most people preferred the safer four-wheeled full-autos. Kelfin enjoyed the rush he got from driving the two-seater. It was almost as good as when he drove his motorcycle, the predecessor to the two-seater. He helped her into her seat and slid it back so that the driver’s seat popped up. He got in and started for home outside of town, weaving in and out of traffic. Her fear of what she expected of him made him sick to his stomach. “Would you relax? What am I going to do to you in here? I can’t even reach you.” He sped up faster and faster once they’d left the city limits. It distracted her for a moment. She now feared crashing. But this fear contained exhilaration, excitement. It wasn’t as nauseating. Her adrenaline would help counter the drugs. And Kelfin’s own adrenaline rush helped counter the emotions that rolled off her. Upon arriving at his place, Kelfin contemplated a moment of solitude, but time constraints prevailed. He only had until tomorrow night to get her ready. He helped her out of the vehicle and led the woman into the grand house, her awe momentarily replacing the fear. To her, the mansion must have seemed like a palace compared to the shelter or where ever she’d lived before becoming an indebted. He needed the space. However, as he guided her into the bedroom, she pulled away. The bedroom was spacious, with high ceilings and large windows that let in the natural light. A king-sized bed sat in the center, covered in soft, pale linens. The walls were painted a soothing blue, and a vase of fresh flowers sat on the dresser. Her fear increased tenfold as she looked around the room. He could understand why. He tried to reassure her, saying, “Relax, I’m not going to hurt you. I didn’t bring you here for sex.” She gazed at him, clearly puzzled. He could sense the unspoken question in her eyes. Why had he gone through the trouble of sponsoring her? “We can discuss that later. For now, let’s find you something more suitable to wear. That outfit looks like it’s barely holding together,” he remarked. Guiding her to the wardrobe, he politely turned away as she changed. However, he made it clear that he was not leaving the room. Despite considering the possibility of escape, she realized the futility of it. “Don’t bother. That door only leads further into the house. I mean you no harm,” he reassured her once more. Sensing her bewilderment, he introduced himself. “I’m Kelfin. May I know your name?” She remained silent. “Can you speak? Is that because of the drugs?” he inquired. He cautiously glanced over his shoulder. She had chosen to wear a sensible blouse and slacks. She nodded and gestured to her throat, then mimed drinking something. “They muted you?” Keep them quiet and compliant. “Come with me.” Kelfin guided her to the door she had been eyeing and then into the kitchen, where he administered another serum to her. “Drink this. It will counteract the effects of the other serum. It will take some time, but in a few days, you will be able to speak again. Are you hungry?” She shook her head, likely due to the effects of the drugs. He would need to ensure that she ate dinner. “Can you write?” The woman nodded. “Good. I’ll get you a tablet. For now, allow me to explain and answer your questions. No, I am not a mind reader. I am not going to force you to sleep with me. I know that is often what individuals in transition expect. It is nothing unlawful, and I will not harm you. What I need is a companion, a buffer. I’m an empath. I feel other people’s emotions. When I’m around others, I need someone specific to focus on. In crowded settings, it can become overwhelming. That’s what I need from you.” Kelfin could see the questions on her face. Why go to the intake? Why sponsor someone? He patiently began to explain. “My last companion passed away about six months ago. I’ve been trying to find a replacement, but it’s been challenging to find someone compatible. Many people I’ve met carry too much emotional baggage. I work for Mor’s Conglomerate, and there’s a significant event tomorrow night that I must attend. However, I can’t go alone. I was feeling desperate. We only have two days to get to know each other. I’ll introduce you as my assistant, but most people will assume you’re my lover. You see, I’ll need to be in constant physical contact with you. Holding hands usually suffices but in crowded gatherings like the one tomorrow, I might need to put an arm around you. I hope that we can become comfortable enough with each other by then. Typically, I would take two weeks to get to know a new companion and start with smaller events before attending big ones. Unfortunately, I can’t afford to miss tomorrow’s event, but it’s one of the biggest nights of the year for Mor’s, and Mr. Mor needs me there.” Kelfin retrieved his data tablet, his fingers lightly tapping the screen as he spoke. “I’m placing an order for a tablet to be delivered later today. Please avoid opening the door for the delivery. Typically, they still have people handling the deliveries in this area. It’s best for us to remain as isolated as possible.” She gestured towards the tablet, prompting him to pass it to her. -Why? She typed into the tablet Kelfin responded thoughtfully, “It helps me to imprint on you, to become accustomed to how you feel. Picture yourself in a crowded room, yet you can still discern a friend’s voice because it’s familiar. By focusing on it, all the other voices fade into the background as white noise. I’m striving to achieve the same with emotions. Each person’s emotions are unique, even when experiencing similar feelings, much like distinct voices in a crowd. “Alone with you, I’ll only sense your emotions. That’s why no one else is here. When I have to adjust to a new companion, the others leave for a while. They try to avoid me as much as possible when they return.” -Are they empaths too? Kelfin suppressed a shudder at the thought. They would all constantly be feeling each other’s emotions and probably wouldn’t be able to tell who felt what. It would get overwhelming. “No. I’m the only one. We’re quite rare.” She nodded as if she understood. She began to write down something else. He placed a hand on hers to stop her. He knew she had myriad questions, but he had one in mind that was of utmost importance. “What’s your name?” Kelfin asked. -Rist. “Nice to meet you. Legally, I’m responsible for you until your debt is paid off. I expect it will take about three years, but Froll will be able to give a closer estimate. Until then, I’ll treat you like any of the others I employ. I can’t pay you above three-quarters of the minimum wage since I’m providing room and board. The rest of your salary is supposed to go to your debt. But I’ll make sure you get a generous spending allowance each week, the same as if you were an employee. Any of the allowance you don’t spend will have to revert back to me, so if you don’t spend it, talk to Froll about investing it. He knows what investments transfers can own that will do well. He’s my bookkeeper and a financial wizard. Mr. Mor keeps trying to steal him from me. So far, I’ve been lucky.” “For the next couple of weeks, I’m going to ask that you stay here in the house so I can get used to you. Then I’ll have to go into the office to catch up on the things I can’t do from here. After that, I’ll go in once a week. Twice a month, there are meetings I have to attend, and quarterly there are gatherings like tomorrow night where we meet with all the potential clients. And sometimes I’ll need to go to parties. I hate those. You’ll probably like them though if you don’t mind crowds. Those will be the times I need you. Otherwise, when the others return, you can go into town when you want. Do you know how to drive a two-seater?” Rist shook her head. “Then Dath will take you. He’s my driver. He doesn’t let anyone drive the full auto. I own it, but it’s his baby. He’ll take you wherever you need to go and drop you off or wait for you. -What if you need to go somewhere while I’m gone? Rist typed into the communication aid on the tablet “I try not to go anywhere I don’t have to, and I won’t go anywhere without you. You’ll have my work schedule. If it’s another time, and I can’t have it delivered, I’ll send one of the others. This morning was the first time in over thirty years I’ve gone out alone. I almost didn’t get through it.” His nerves were still on edge. He needed his tea and pills. -The others, Froll and Dath? Kelfin nodded. “Two of them. There’s also Corish, my cook, Hurmis, the groundskeeper, and Satil, my butler. He supervises the others. None of them are indebted transfers. Dath had been when he first came, but he was able to pay his debt in a short time.” -I’m the only woman? Her apprehension came through though he could tell she was trying to stifle it. “Now? Yes. None of them will give you trouble. If any of them do anything that makes you uncomfortable, talk to Satil or me. We’ll put a stop to it,” he promised. “But they’re all great people. There won’t be any problems.” Rist relaxed a little. -What’s happening tomorrow? What do I need to do? “It’s a meet and greet for clients and the conglomerates. It’s the start of the big convention where we show off what we’ve been working on and try to get contracts and convince them our products are better than the others. My position tomorrow is Senior Supervisor of Development Sales. Officially, I’m the head of human resources. None of that means anything. It’s all to hide what I really do. Very few people in the company, none of the clients, or other conglomerates know what I am. I read the people to see what they really think of the products and find the spies. “Like I said, your official position is my assistant. You stay by my side and help me to avoid getting overwhelmed by everyone. I’ll hold your hand or put an arm around you. Can you handle that?” -Does it matter? I don’t have a choice. “It does,” Kelfin insisted. “If you’re too uncomfortable, I will be too.” -I’ll do what I can. It’s better than what I’d do at the intake. “If you need a break, let me know. I need to be there, but Mr. Mor knows the problem, so he’ll allow a few breaks if I need to step out for a bit.” -What about making it look like I’m your assistant? “You won’t have to worry about that tomorrow. Tomorrow, I’ll mostly just greet people, and maybe point out a few key products or features. The techs and salesmen do all the real work. That way I can focus on the client’s emotions.” He stood. “Let me show you around.” *** When the tablet was delivered, Kelfin spoke with the delivery man via an advanced intercom system integrated into the door. The technology allowed them to talk without direct contact, ensuring boundaries were maintained. The delivery required a signature for confirmation, so Kelfin asked the man to place the signing tablet on the smooth, granite doorstep and retreat a safe distance before he would open the door to interact with it. Much to his relief, the delivery man was someone Kelfin had dealt with several times before, and he complied without question, respecting Kelfin’s need for this specific procedure. Once the delivery was successfully completed, Kelfin showed Rist around. After a comprehensive tour, they retreated to Kelfin’s spacious and well-equipped office. Kelfin could work uninterruptedly while the two acclimated to each other. A significant aspect of their unique bond was physical contact, which Kelfin used to imprint with Rist. As such she rested her feet on his lap as she started setting up her new tablet. During their tour, she couldn’t hold his hand due to needing both hands to use the tablet to ask questions. As a workaround, he’d kept one hand tenderly on her arm. However, this arrangement had to change as he needed both hands free to focus on his pending work. Kelfin had meticulously designed his house, ensuring both privacy and functionality. His private quarters, consisting of his office and bedroom, occupied one secluded corner of the house. At the opposite end of the magnificent house were the servants’ quarters, with communal living and entertainment spaces strategically nestled in between. This layout allowed for comfortable distances between everyone in the house. Rist had her separate rooms, which were conveniently located very near Kelfin’s office, separated by a single room. As Rist settled in, she couldn’t help but wonder about the careful dance of interaction Kelfin had to master, always carefully monitoring and choosing who he came into close contact with. Kelfin’s tablet began to vibrate, indicating an incoming call. He instantly shifted his posture, sitting up straighter in his chair with a seriousness suddenly reflecting on his face. He gently nudged Rist’s feet away from his lap as he prepared to engage in what would likely be a business call. Slowly, he reached out and accepted the call. The familiar face of his boss popped up on the tablet. “Mr. Mor,” he greeted, keeping his voice neutral. “Kel,” the older man replied affectionately, “How did your errand go this morning?” “I managed to survive and found precisely what I was searching for.” Kelfin glanced over at Rist and gestured for her to come closer. “Allow me to introduce Rist; she’s the result of today’s endeavor. Rist, meet my boss, Mr. Yol Mor.” Rist acknowledged the introduction with a slight nod of her head, indicating her silent greeting. Mor’s countenance warmed as he stated, “The quality of intake’s care has shown considerable improvement. I expected you might need me to deploy a team for a makeover.” “We appreciate the offer, but that won’t be necessary. With the right suit, she will blend right in with all the rest,” Kelfin assured him. Concern seeped into Mor’s tone as he asked, “Will she be prepared for tomorrow night?” “No, she won’t. But don’t worry, but we’ll come anyhow.” “Good. I need you there. It’s been difficult without you.” Kelfin could hear the earnestness in his boss’s words. “Yes Sir, I understand. I should be able to return to the office soon,” he reassured. “I’m relieved to hear it. Will Satil be back soon to assist her in dressing?” “No. If Rist needs help, we’ll call him. There’s plenty of clothing here for her to choose from.” “I trust your judgment, Kel. I need to go. See you tomorrow.” Kelfin returned the nod with a concise, “See you then.” And with that, the call ended, leaving Kelfin to his thoughts. “His behavior is pleasant enough,” Rist remarked, her voice emanating from the text-to-speech function she had activated on her tablet. Her assessment was short yet nuanced; her words suggested a mild approval painted over layers of skepticism. “He certainly knows how to play his part well.” This intrigued Kelfin. He lifted an eyebrow curiously, lending his interest to her evaluation. “So you believe this is simply a rehearsed persona?” “He is not unjust or cruel, but nor is he nice or compassionate,” she explained, her words painting a portrait of a complex character. “He’s a businessman at his core. His decisions and behavior are calibrated towards profit. He extends courtesy when the situation demands it and manifests a harsh demeanor when the situation requires firmness.” Kelfin nodded in understanding, appreciating her perception. “When it’s related to business, he is. When it’s personal, he’s a decent guy. But you only see that in private.” “Yol’s interest in you is primarily a business interest. His interest in you stems from the fact that without a companion, I can’t do my job and the company loses money. However, we’ve known each other for a long time. He does care if I suffer. It’s why he’s been lenient with me these last six months,” Kelfin explained. “But I don’t want to take advantage.” Curiosity drove her to ask, “Why did you buy me a tablet if I’ll be able to talk again soon?” “Don’t you want one? I figured you’d need it to make calls and buy stuff if nothing else. And you seem to like the books,” Kelfin explained. “I do appreciate it...but...” “You thought you’d have to purchase it by yourself?” “I had no such expectations.” “I am going to make sure you have the necessary tools to perform your job efficiently. The cost won’t go into your debt. Since they muted, communication has been a hurdle. This tablet will ease that barrier.” “Earlier, you were acting like you had insight into my thoughts. That doesn’t seem to be the case now,” puzzlement emanated from her. “Sorry. I can’t read minds, but sometimes I can tell what someone is thinking by their emotions.” he clarified, “I try not to do that. I was agitated. The intake process had me on edge - you radiated a certain tranquility that calmed me. You aren’t an empath too, are you?” That would be his luck. The one person he’d found in six months, and he wouldn’t be able to imprint on her. “I don’t think so.” He eased visibly. “If you had such abilities, you would be aware of them by now.” “I’ve just always been a calm person. Panicked responses never solve anything,” Rist replied. “That temperament would serve you well as my companion. If you can get used to being close to me, we might work well together.” “We’ll do fine. I can do what you need.” Kelfin studied her. “You’re worried about what will happen to you if this doesn’t work. I won’t send you back. The intake has a no-return policy. Seriously, I’ll have Satil find a different position for you.” “You’re too considerate.” He smiled reassuringly, his patience evident. “Given that I can sense everyone’s emotions, wouldn’t it be sensible for me to attempt to create a pleasant environment?” “An excellent point. I should probably leave you to continue your work.” “Thank you,” he responded, appreciating the gesture. *** Rist gazed at her bed, contemplating the bizarre events of the past few days. She had been arrested for having too much debt and taken to a population transfer facility. From there, she was sent halfway around the world to an intake center where someone paid off her debt in exchange for her company to help him manage his anxiety in public. He defied expectations as a sponsor by not fitting the stereotype of someone seeking something in return for paying off her debt. While he was wealthy and had his own motivations, they were not as rumored. Meanwhile, Kelfin was sleeping in the next room, his presence discernible from his breathing despite having the light on. Diverting her attention, she examined the dresser, discovering an assortment of nightwear. An involuntary thought made her wonder if these once belonged to his previous companion. Identifying a pair that seemed snug and cozy, she dressed for bed. Though the day was young, fatigue had taken over. She tucked herself in bed, but it took a significant while before her tense muscles relaxed, easing her into sleep. She was abruptly awakened by the sound of cries emanating from the adjacent room. It was Kelfin having a nightmare. Unable to bear seeing him in distress, she went to his side. No one should have to endure such suffering. She shook him gently, attempting to rouse him, but although he grew quiet, he remained asleep. Rist seemed unconcerned, deciding that he didn’t necessarily need to be awakened. She turned to leave, but Kelfin cried out once more. Troubled by his distress, she shook him again, bringing him back to quietude until she stepped away. Feeling a sense of helplessness, she realized that she was supposed to help him stay calm, but was unsure if this was part of it. Nevertheless, she decided it wasn’t a major issue. Pulling up a chair, she held his hand for comfort and gradually drifted off herself.