Page 16 of I Think I’m in Love with an Alien
[five minutes later]
Jeneticist: Oh wow, this is enchanting! Is this a pan flute?
Seeker: Similar. It’s a local instrument.
Jeneticist: I love this. It sounds like elves are gathering in a clearing about to celebrate the spring solstice.
Seeker: …elves?
Jeneticist: Fantasy elves, not Keebler elves. Their soundtrack would be completely different.
Seeker: ??I’m glad you like the song anyway.
Jeneticist: I do! Is that you playing?
Seeker: How did you guess?
Jeneticist: Just a feeling I had. Since it’s an original written by your mom, I didn’t think it would be a professional recording. Thanks for sharing it with me.
Seeker: Oona wants me to focus on music.
Jeneticist: Oona?
Seeker: My mother.
Jeneticist: Ah, I see. In a professional capacity?
Seeker: Correct.
Jeneticist: You don’t want to?
Seeker: I had other things I was more interested in, but I’m starting to regret some of my choices.
Jeneticist: It’s never too late to make a change!
Seeker: Do you really believe that?
Jeneticist: Yep. That said, it’s easier to think about something than to make a big move. Inertia is a powerful force.
Seeker: Is that why you’re still at the community college and tutoring online?
Jeneticist: Ouch. I’m in this picture and I don’t like it.
Seeker: I don’t follow. What picture?
Jeneticist: ??
Jeneticist: Seriously, how do you NOT recognize that meme? Have you been at a research station in Antarctica or something?
Seeker: I’m not online all the time, so what? ??
Jeneticist: Sorry, sorry.
Jeneticist: I’m avoiding the question by picking at you.
Seeker: It’s fine.
Jeneticist: No, it’s not. And you’re right. That’s why I haven’t tried to get a better job.
Seeker: I’m not prone to sticking to what’s comfortable, but there’s nothing wrong with doing that.
Jeneticist: That feels like a pity pat.
Seeker: What now?
Jeneticist: A pity pat. “There, there. You’re doing the best you can. Bronze star for effort.”
Seeker: I have no idea what you’re talking about.
Jeneticist: Never mind! Let’s talk about you.
Seeker: What about me?
Jeneticist: Big question time. Have you ever been in love?
Seeker: As in, have I met someone I thought I wanted to share my life with for all time?
Jeneticist: Yeah. Exactly.
Seeker: I don’t think so. What about you?
Jeneticist: I’ve had two boyfriends and one girlfriend. But it wasn’t serious, and they lost patience with my “alien obsession.”
Seeker: Then it wasn’t right. Anyone who cares about you will accept all aspects.
Jeneticist: I hope you’re right.
Seeker: Usually am. But I have some work to finish. Talk to you soon. ??
Jeneticist: ??