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“Currency is not required,” he reassured her.

“Okay, but I don’t know how to even begin to thank everyone. And you talk so casually of getting me all new clothes. Even on Earth that would’ve been a struggle for me to replace. It’s not nothing.” She shook her head and he could tell she was having trouble voicing what she was feeling.

He cupped her cheek and tipped her chin up to look at him.

“It’s all right. I understand. I think this is one of those situations that may take time for you to adjust to.” He kissed her trembling lips.

“You’re right. I’ll be okay,” she said when he relinquished her lips.

“Don’t repress what you are feeling. It is all normal.” He smiled at her. “Do you want me to select something?”

She nodded and he scrolled through the options then selected a short-sleeved dress. He snorted, noting the size that appeared to fit her best was meant for youth.

“What?” Elena asked.

“Nothing important. What color would you prefer?”

“Yellow?” She shrugged.

“All right. It’ll take just a moment.” He set her down.

“Okay. I’ll go take care of my business unless you want to go first.”

“Go ahead.” He nodded toward the washroom. “Holler if you need help,” he called after her.

She briefly turned and stuck her tongue out at him. He chuckled at the ornery expression and the memory of her struggling with the facilities in the middle of the night.

He checked the progress of her clothing then grabbed his own vestments and put them on.

“Aye,” he said when his handheld pinged again.

“Oh, I wasn’t sure you’d answer,” Scala replied. It was good to hear the male’s voice.

“Elena is in the washroom, but we’ll be along shortly.”

“Good. We have much to discuss, particularly the rumor I heard about you.”

Although Scala’s tone was serious, Payim smiled, knowing what the male was referring to.

“Rumor?” he asked, feigning ignorance.

“You Cadi move fast,” Scala chuckled. “Although, I feel slightly betrayed.”

Payim laughed, hearing the pout in his unmated friend’s voice.

“Such a terrible fate,” Scala continued to lament, making Payim laugh harder.

“May an equally terrible fate sneak up on you,” he countered.

“That is harsh,” Scala said, pretending to be wounded. “I’ll see you in the canteen.”

He laughed as Scala cut off the transmission.

“What are you giggling about?” Elena asked as she exited the washroom.

“Scala called to tell me where they are meeting and to harass me,” he chuckled.

“I love that. Friends are wonderful.” She grinned, taking joy in his happiness.