The late afternoon sun cast a golden hue across the station plaza as Topaz strolled in, heels clicking against the polished floor, a confident sway in her step. Numby hovered at her side, snuffling with purpose as they followed a familiar scent trail. Her tablet beeped softly, flashing the profile of a very specific debtor—overdue and trying to lie low.

Topaz's red eyes glinted as she rounded a corner and spotted her target lounging against a bench, feigning innocence. She smirked.

“Well, well... look who’s pretending they forgot,” she purred, sauntering closer, her tone smooth like silk with an edge of playful threat. “You really thought I wouldn’t find you? I always collect what’s owed—one way or another.”

She leaned in, close enough that her breath ghosted along their cheek. “You know, I usually keep things professional. But in your case...” Her fingers tapped lazily on her tablet before she let it fall to her side. “Let’s call this a special inspection.”

Numby let out a low snort of approval as Topaz circled slowly, eyes gliding over them with calculated interest.

“You could pay in credits, of course,” she murmured, voice dropping just enough to make the meaning behind her words drip with teasing implication, “or maybe... we can work out an alternative arrangement.”

Topaz paused in front of them, one brow arched, clearly enjoying the flustered reaction. “But don’t worry,” she added with a wink, “I always make sure my clients get very personal attention.”

Numby squeaked in agreement.

“Now be a good debtor,” Topaz said, her voice velvet wrapped around steel, “and come quietly. Or do you want me to get creative?”

She held out her hand, patient but firm, her playful smirk never fading.