That much was a relief. Sure, Stern couldn't just take her word and run with it, but hearing it so plainly gave him the confidence that they would eventually discover that was the truth. "I'm glad to hear that, Captain." Certainly, a good sign for Bingo as well, as he would no longer be under suspicion of collaborating. "I'd guessed as much this morning, but I had to ask." The commander doubted few traitorous conglomerates would actually get into bed together.

And then, as a precaution, "Don't ask about anything too specific, all right?" He hoped she'd understand he meant she should choose her questions wisely.