Apparently, there is an interesting temporal distortion that occurs when one is eagerly anticipating an event. The closer the time draws for the event to occur, the longer it seems to take.
I am nearly ready to clock out for the day and head to the restaurant when Fullstein appears in the control room.
He wears a playful grin. “You look like someone eager to be somewhere else.”
“I am meeting Davies for dinner again, and—”
“Whoa!” He looks shocked and holds up a hand to stay me. “You’ve gotanotherdate with him and didn’t tell me that thismorning?”
“I did not realize I needed to tell you that.”
His eyes widen. “Dude,seriously?”
“What? I do not understand.”
No, truly, I do not.
Fullstein stares at me, mouth literally agape. “You’redatingDavies McKellan?”
“I am not certain eating two dinners together can be considered ‘dating,’ Fullstein.”
“Uh, yeah, it can. Holy hell’s brains, that’s crazy!”
More it would seem that his sudden interest in my personal life is of questionable sanity. “Why?”
“Because he’sfamous, duh!”
“He is simply a nice person, that is all.”
“Uh, no. It’snotthat simple.” He cocks his head at me. “I know Pfahrn have a different way of looking at the universe when it comes to personal relationships, but youreallydon’t get it, do you?”
“Get what?”
“McKellan isn’t just the best ether-jump nav out there. He also has a rep as a major player. I’m talking sex. Someonenotlooking for a permanent partner, just a good time. My brother said McKellan hooks up with people in nearly every port, usually non-humans.”
“Are you saying he is not honest?”
“No, I’m not saying anything about his veracity. I’m saying that he’s got a thing for sleeping with species who aren’t human. Unless there’s something different about you than most Pfahrn, I also know he’s probably not looking for a long-term relationship. Don’t rush into any decisions you might regret later, that’s all I’m saying.”
I know I am scowling because it is an expression I am quite sure I have excelled at in my time dealing with La’loorn. “How is having dinner with him rushing into anything?”
“Sex, Olarte. I’m saying he likes strings-free sex with non-humans, without any commitment. Nothing wrong with that, of course. But last time I checked, that’s sort of anathema to how most Pfahrn are. Have fun, but be careful. And guard your heart.”
* * * *
Fullstein’s words ring in my mind as I take the secure personnel lift down.
Am I putting myself into some sort of emotional jeopardy that I am not recognizing?
I replay the conversation of last night and cannot see where there was any ambiguity on either of our parts.
Perhaps Fullstein is simply being overcautious on my behalf?
I do not know. When I arrive at the restaurant, however, I am shocked at how my pulse races when I spot Davies awaiting me. A brilliant smile appears on his face when he sees me approaching.
Unlike many humans, he does not seem to mistake other Pfahrn for me, which is refreshing. His focus is immediately upon me as soon as he spots me approaching.
“Hey!” His smile widens. “Good to see you again.”
