Ackster grabbed the hands on his shoulders and gently removed them while maintaining eye contact. He could sense Mara's and Karandiel's gazes pointed toward Mastrax like a pair of sniper lasers.
"If your desire is carnal, I will have to refuse. But if it's from a research standpoint, I think we can come to a mutually beneficial agreement."
Mastrax belatedly realized what he had done, not just the part about touching Ackster and saying he wanted him. But he had also gotten very close and personal.
He jumped back behind his cover and peeked out at Ackster.
"W-what do you mean?"
Mastrax was too enticed by Ackster's suggestion to let his social anxiety interfere more than keeping him at a safe distance.
Ackster smiled and clasped his hands behind his back.
"Well, you want something I can offer, and I want something you can offer. It's as simple as that. So, why not cooperate?"
"What is it that you want?"
