Dani and Zephyr arrive in the Sidapa House where they see Robin in the lounge area by surprise. His male form looked like he was in his late 20s, matching Sophie’s age. He wore a polo shirt and slacks. 

“We weren’t expecting you until later this week.” Dani said.

“I know, but duty calls.” Robin said. “Dani, go with me.”

Zephyr looked at Dani, but she shook her head to assure him she was fine being alone with him. 

Dani went upstairs and followed Robin to his study. Robin was relaxed, taking a generous amount of sunscreen before opening the curtains of the window where the sun shone.

“How may I be of service?” Dani asked.

Robin laughed as he poured out a drink for Dani. “There’s no need for the formalities. We’re talking as friends here.” He said.

Dani took the drink and saw Robin smile to himself. He looked at his glass, happily. Robin’s expression reminded Dani of a giddy teenager. “When I first learned about the proposal of strengthening vampire and human ties through marriage, I didn’t think I was capable of being a dutiful spouse. But when I saw Sophie that night and learned more about her, the idea felt easier.”

“So, did you spend the night together?” Dani asked, trying to keep a reverent tone. This was not out of curiosity’s sake but rather a question for future reference on Sophie’s well being.

Robin blushed. He said softly while avoiding Dani’s gaze, “My wife is very enduring. She seemed to enjoy it. I did as well.”

Dani had briefed both Robin and Sophie, respectively, as their wedding night had both been their first time. She was relieved to know they had a good experience. 

“I’m glad my limited knowledge was of use.” Dani said.

Robin took a sip from his glass. “It’s like, when Sophie appeared in my life, I finally began to feel things I didn’t know I could feel.”

“Like getting a hard on?” Dani said.

They laughed. “Not just that,” Robin  said. “I began to feel human. I know I’m far from that but it feels like I’m one. Is this what it’s like, Dani?”

Dani fell silent. Both she and Robin knew. He hadn’t thought too much on his question but Dani did.“How should I know?” Dani said. “Neither am I good at being human or being a lover.”

“Does Zephyr know?” Robin said. When he spoke, his tone changed to a serious note.

His mention of Zephyr’s name sent Dani abuzz. “What about him?”

“I talked with Sophie and apparently she knows about your… situation. Does Zephyr also know? You will be working quite closely.”

“He doesn’t need to know.” Dani gulped the drink in her shot glass. “No one needs to know unless it’s necessary.”

“Alright,” said Robin, who had also finished his drink. He went to his table and opened the drawer to pull out a folder. He handed this to Dani, who placed her glass down to read the file. “Now, let’s talk business. I need you and Zephyr to investigate this case.”

Dani read the file intently. She raised an eyebrow. “Zen Vita Farms and the Ikapati clan? I thought they refused the clan’s protection service. Why are they getting mixed up again?”

“It’s exactly why they’re blaming their missing livestock on the clan. They think they’re stealing and eating the livestock because the corporation refused their services.” Robin said.

“It’s obviously false. Could it be Matang Lawin?”

“Not sure. The report says they’re a group that moves back and forth in trucks and anyone that tries to get near them during operations gets shot.”

“Sounds like Matang Lawin,” said Dani.  

“My guess is that they were hired by some corporate competitor trying to get ahead then framing vampires, antagonizing them, while they get away with it. I’d like you to look into this with Zephyr. Talk with the locals, talk to the clan. But please, do it separately. The two parties cannot meet.”

Dani nodded. She closed the file and gave it back. As she exited the room, Robin spoke. “I forgot to tell you this,” He said.

“Thanks for catching that bullet. You thought I wouldn’t see that.”

Dani snickered. “No problem,”