Page 120 of I Think I’m in Love with an Alien

“I’m officially starving,” Tad says eventually.

“Do we have food waiting?” Poppy asks.

Ravik indicates the house with a concise gesture. “It’s ready. I prepared a dish especially for each guest. I researched to ensure enjoyment and health.”

“Tell us about the menu,” Jaz invites, once we reach the kitchen.

The kitchen is spacious, but the wooden beams overhead are rough-cut, showing knots and nicks that seem to have occurred long ago, probably before Ravik took up residence. Open shelves hold crockery, plates, cookbooks, and jars full of colored powders. From living with Jen, I can extrapolate that those are most likely spices. A large table in the corner is surrounded by mismatched chairs, exactly enough for the six of us.

Ravik says, “For you, Jaz, I have prepared dandelion greens. No seasonings. For Poppy, Tad, and Jen, a pasta bake and salad. For myself, I roasted a butternut squash. For Seeker, I have made a tofu and kale stir-fry.”

“Wow,” Poppy says. “You must have been cooking all day. Can I help you set the table?”

Ravik indicates the far wall. “Please do. The equipment is on that shelf.”

I sit next to Jen, who gives me a look that feels as warm as her form against mine. I bask in that gaze. It may need to serve as a silent sun for years to come.

“Are we doing the usual ‘I’m thankful for’ rounds?” Tad asks.

Poppy nods. “I’ll start. I’m grateful for the support you gave me when my job was just about more than I could handle.”

People serve themselves food as we talk, and Tad takes a sip from his ice water. “I’m thankful you lot gave me the courage to do something with my alien sim. I have some cool stuff coming down the pike.”

Jaz says, “I’m so happy for you.”

“I’m grateful that I met all of you,” Jen adds.

She glances at me, and I surmise that I’m meant to join in now. “I am grateful to you all for making me feel at home for the first time in longer than I can recall.”

“Wow, going deep there!” Tad says with a huge smile. “Ravik? Jaz?”

Ravik says simply, “I am thankful that you all traveled so far to share this time with me. I have never had guests before.”

Poppy blinks. “Never? Damn.”

Jaz traces the rim of her water glass and creates a lilting note of haunting beauty. “I’m grateful to have found both friends and freedom here.”

Private Chat

November 26 | 01:13

Seeker: Hey ❤️

Jeneticist: Hey, yourself. Also, why are you messaging me? Come to bed already.

Seeker: Ever get the feeling you’re about to make a mistake? But also every choice is wrong.

Jeneticist: Sometimes. What’s going on?

Seeker: I should let you rest. I’ll come to bed later.

Jeneticist: Um. You’re kinda freaking me out right now.

Seeker: Sorry. I’m just feeling a bit…

Jeneticist: A bit what?

Seeker: Never mind. Whatever happens, you’ve changed me. For the better. ✨