Alien Redemption [Clans of Kalquor 06] by Tracy St. John

two months, which she’s used properly. She has a safe hair trimmer for her hair now. There haven’t been any episodes of self-mutilation or evidence of harmful survivor’s guilt for several weeks.”
    Govi considered. He never answered any question without turning it over carefully first, even if he knew the answer. After a few moments he said, “Conyod and I have agreed for some time that she’s emotionally stable in every way except for this continuing trauma-based muteness. She’s found a way past that. I’m very comfortable letting her explore her next steps with continued, but reduced supervision.”
    Kivokan frowned. “I’ll agree her progress has been quite good, but she still exhibits some issues regarding her appearance. Her remaining scars are minimal, but she seems to see them as much worse than they are.”
    “That will fade as clans vie for her attention. I have no doubt that with the combination of vulnerability and strength that are part of her character, she will be very popular.” Govi glanced at the small vid on his wall where his Matara and daughter’s portrait was displayed. It was the only decoration in a room dedicated to minimal function. Govi hated to not be around people, and Conyod knew he spent as little time in the office as possible, preferring to visit patients and consult with the team.
    Conyod studied the vid as well, and despite his nervousness he had to smile at the lovely image. The baby Serena was a miniature version of her mother Michaela with matching black curls and cherubic face. A beautiful pair, no doubt the real reason Govi jealously guarded his hours, putting in only a couple nights of overtime each week. He was a very lucky man.
    The head therapist turned back to his subordinates. “Constant reassurance from a devoted clan does much to alleviate issues such as perceived unworthiness.”
    “Matara Rachel has shown an interest in clanning?” Kivokan sounded surprised but disinterested. His clan had opted to not enter into the lottery.
    Conyod took a deep breath. Now was as good a time to jump in as any. “Perhaps I can mitigate some of Dr. Kivokan’s concerns. Rachel has indeed indicated an interest in joining a clan.”
    Govi nodded. “Yes, she has. We discussed the lottery last night.”
    Conyod barreled on. “As you are both aware, my clan has won the right to approach willing Mataras. Rachel would like to explore the possibility of joining my clan. I’d like to as well.”
    Govi’s smile disappeared. He and Kivokan stared in undisguised shock.
    The head psychologist spoke slowly. “That’s rather unprecedented, Conyod. I’m not sure it’s ethical either.”
    Conyod nodded. “I know. I’ve spoken with Rachel about the concerns of patient-doctor involvement. After much discussion and deliberation, I’m convinced she is sincerely interested in me and my clanmates as potential mates. I’m certain this is not a dependent fixation.”
    Kivokan didn’t try to hide his disapproval. “You’re too close to the situation to make that determination, Doctor.”
    Govi’s tone was gentler, but he was firm. “I have to agree.” He glanced at the photo of his Matara and child again. One corner of his lips twitched upward. “However, I clanned my own Matara knowing I’d be treating her for issues of poor self-image and a lack of worth. I have not been the most objective of therapists when it comes to her either.” He looked at Conyod again.
    “You have feelings beyond those of a therapeutic caregiver?”
    Without hesitation, Conyod said, “I love her. But I never told her until I was certain she felt the same for me.”
    Another long pause as Govi turned the matter over in his mind. Conyod barely breathed in those endless seconds. Finally his supervisor said, “I’ll tell you what, Conyod. I’ll speak to Rachel myself and decide if it is in her best interests to pursue this course of action. Meanwhile, you must get your clanmates to agree to the