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“There should be a warning sign or something.”
“You mean like that one?”
I look at the banner running along the top of the fence flashing a constant warning to stay off the path. it even features a holo image of a cartoon sapient being trampled by a Nayk.
“That…I didn’t…there was a break in the fence.”
“Oh, yeah, that’s so people who get stuck on the highway can escape in case of a stampede. They really should put more of those in, but I think they’re afraid if they do that more sapients will use the livestock highway and it will be even less safe.”
I feel like a total idiot. I just don’t know what to say to him.
“Um, well, thanks again for saving me. I guess I should get going. My friend is waiting for me.”
“Oh right,” he says, scratching the back of his ridged head. “I should be going too. I’m applying for a new job today.”
“Oh?” I smile at him. “Good luck.”
“Thanks. You too.”
We awkwardly shake hands again, and then I walk out of the alleyway back to the main thoroughfare.
At the last moment, I turn back around and face him.
“Um, maybe I’ll see you around?”
“Yeah,” he says, nodding enthusiastically. “Maybe you will. I’d like that.”
He looks like he wants to say something else, but he doesn’t speak. Eventually the press of foot traffic forces me to move on.
I really would like to see him again. I hate to use the word ‘hunk’ because it’s so objectifying, but…what a hunk.
As soon as I can, I duck into a small street corner diner and sit at the nearest table. I order a Vakutan coffee since I feel that’s appropriate, and then dig out my com pad.
“I guess I’m calling Elena after all.”
A green globe appears over the holo display plate. A moment later it resolves into Elena’s features.
“Livvy!” her face splits in a wide grin. “It is you. Are you still en route?”
“No, not exactly. I landed about an hour ago. It took forever to get through customs. I was going to surprise you, but there’s not a hover cab to be found.”
“Oh yeah, they’re on strike right now. The union is clashing with the Erebus Collective over operator’s insurance. Where are you at? I’ll come and get you.”
“I’m, um…”
I look at the GPS on my com pad and then transfer her the coordinates.
“I’m here.”
“I know that place. They have the best Shorcu cheese bread on the planet. Do me a favor and order a loaf of it. It should be done right about the time I show up.”
“All right.”
Her face creases with a frown.
“Hey, are you all right, Livvy? You look frazzled.”
“Well, I did almost get trampled by Nayk.”
