Page 5 of Whoops-A-Mate From Outer Space

I shook my head. “I already have students enrolled for fall classes.”

The general narrowed his eyes. “Doctor, we both know that there are policies to shift coverage.”

I crossed my arms. “And what about when you’re done with me? This is my career. Things would be tense at best. At worst, I could burn bridges that would have otherwise been left untouched. Six weeks.”

Colonel Smith signalled to the general and whispered something to him. General Block nodded and returned his attention to me.

“The fall semester doesn’t start until mid-August, twelve weeks away.”

“I still need to prep for my classes.”

He huffed. “I’m trying to work with you, Doctor.”

“It seems you need me more than I need you,” I retorted. Then I sighed. “Eight weeks… as a trial run. Then I can decide if it’s worth the impact to my career, or help you find somebody better suited.”

The men leaned in and conferred via whispers.

“Ten weeks,” General Block stated. “Eight as the trial, and two to help transition your replacement should you choose to leave.”

I considered the offer. “Acceptable.”

He nodded and stood. “A vehicle will be waiting outside your apartment complex at seven AM the day after tomorrow. Make any arrangements before then.”

I swallowed. “Understood.”

He studied me for several seconds, then turned to Colonel Smith. “Colonel?”

“Sir?” he asked, standing.

“Do you have anything further for the doctor?”

“No, sir.”

“Then let’s be on our way.”

“Yes, sir.”

General Block turned to me again. “We’ll see you the day after tomorrow, Doctor.”

I nodded.

He turned without another word, and the two of them strode from my office.

I slumped into my chair as soon as the door closed behind them, my mind already racing. I needed to warn my department chair and the university administration. Even though I’d negotiated to eight weeks, I couldn’t ignore the possibility that I could be there longer.

My rent was on autopay, but I needed to let the leasing office know that I would be away and not dead. Subscriptions had to be paused or cancelled. I needed a haircut.

I’d need to clear my fridge of any perishables.

There was a single mom in the next apartment I was on good terms with since her kid loved science. She’d probably be willing to accept some free groceries.

“Oh, yeah…” I muttered. “I promised her a summer reading list for Sam.”

I stood. I could start with that. I’d visit with colleagues on the way to the administration building and get their book recommendations for a kid.

I paused at my office door.

How many of those books would be outdated within weeks? If I was really about to study aliens, then what scientific and technological developments had come with them?