But I’d have died if I’d stayed as I was.
Kaden gritted his teeth.
You don’t want me to die. You saved me. And this way, I get to speak to you, right?
“But it’s my body.”
Which we’re temporarily sharing. A type of mutualism. We both benefit. Think of me as a passenger, hitching a ride, an invisible friend, but someone who can protect you. Because I can protect you properly now. Harris will never hurt you again.
Kaden’s mind flew into hyperdrive. Joe could hear everything that went through his mind and there was nothing he could do about it. When he used the bathroom, when he wrapped his hand around— He snapped off the thought.
When you wrapped your hand around what?
Kaden’s heart started to race again. He’d been body snatched by an alien.Fucking hellfire.Was this really happening? He tried not to think of any of the sci-fi movies he’d watched where things didn’t work out so well for the human, which of course ensured that his mind flooded with unpleasant images.
Don’t! Yuck, that’s revolting. I’d never do that.
Kaden almost enjoyed Joe’s reaction. Served him right. Until he remembered. And thought again about eggs.
“Can you lay eggs? You said no eggs but was that true? Are you using me as an incubator for thousands of babies?”
What? No.
But was that a lie?
I’m not lying.
Of course, he’d say that.Shit.
I’m not lying! Look. Just ignore me.
“You said we’re temporarily sharing. How long is temporary?”
Until I can survive on my own.
“And how long will that take?”
I don’t know, but if I come out of you too soon, I’ll perish.
“But you will be able to come out of me at some point?”
Yes.
Kaden was pretty sure Joe hesitated before he answered but he didn’t want to think too hard about that.
It’ll be okay. I can help you. We can—
“Please don’t talk to me. I just need to get my head straight.”
Kaden curled up as tight as he could. Was there anything he could do? Tell a friend? See a doctor? Go to the police?
Joe huffed.
“You said you’d be quiet.”
Sorry.
“Is there any point asking you not to listen in to my thoughts?”
